The Jim Fortin Podcast Ep 281: Whose Purpose Are You Living?
In this episode of the Transform Your Life podcast, I talk about the importance of living your own purpose in life rather than conforming to the expectations and ideals of others. I talk about how we can get stuck in careers, relationships, and situations that don't align with our true desires because we seek the approval of our parents, partners, and society. I ask you to explore whether you are truly living a purposeful, fulfilling life on your own terms or living your life for others.
As I ask the last question, I think back to the 1991 movie, The Dead Poet's Society, and I think about the movie character named Neil. He wanted to pursue acting and loved it, but his stern father wanted him to go to Harvard Medical School. Neil hated the idea of medical school and found it soul-crushing, but he agreed. You'll have to watch the movie for the story's conclusion, but it's not uncommon for people to deny their own hopes, wishes, wants, and dreams and instead live their lives to please their parents.
Often times cultural and familial pressures guide people down a path that doesn't fulfill them, and they live decades misaligned from their own purpose while trying to please others. So, it's important to ask whether you are living your own purpose or someone else's.
Another purpose-robbing action that people often get into is seeking validation from others. This is a surefire way to live an unfulfilled life. For example, a friend of mine was constantly motivated by a desire for his father's approval, and that led him down an obsessive path of constantly trying to prove himself. This behavior disconnects you from your higher self and obscures your true purpose. You can't create an authentic life while dependent on external validation.
I have found that the key to living your purpose is surrendering to your destiny and innate talents. This involves getting quiet, listening to your intuition, and taking aligned action. We must focus on the importance of being grateful and on contribution rather than achievement.
Here are four key points you may want to keep in mind:
- Surrender to your innate talents and destiny.
- Listen to your intuition and take aligned action.
- Express gratitude and focus on contributing.
- Achievements will naturally follow purposeful contributions.
You must examine whether you are living someone else's purpose or your own. If you are not thrilled by how you spend your days, you are likely conforming to others' expectations. I challenge you to get creative, listen within, and take steps each day to live your own purpose.
Transformational Takeaway: When you are living your purpose, you are contributing your talents to activities that light you up, and you will experience true joy and fulfillment. Your key is being brave enough to live life on your own terms. Just do it.
Mentioned Resources:
EPISODE 280: History, Humanity, and Spiritual Ego.
EPISODE 236: Living Life on Your Own Terms
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With Gratitude, Jim Fortin