Your North Star - Your Purpose and Driving Force
We’ve all had those moments of feeling a little lost, like our wheels are spinning and we’re going nowhere. You might be busy and successful on the surface, but deep down, something feels like there’s something missing – adrift without a sail or an anchor. This feeling is often a sign that you haven’t yet connected with your "why"—the core purpose and driving force behind everything you do.
"The two most important days in your life are the day you are born and the day you find out why."
— Mark Twain
Finding your "why" isn't about uncovering a single, grand mission statement. It’s about understanding your deepest motivations, the values you hold most dear, and the impact you want to have on the world around you. Your "why" is your North Star, providing direction and clarity when the path gets cloudy. It’s the reason you get out of bed in the morning, the fuel that keeps you going when faced with challenges.
When you’re truly connected to your purpose, you build a powerful source of resilience. Make no mistake, life will always throw obstacles in your way, from career setbacks to personal disappointments. When you have a strong "why," these setbacks don’t define you. Instead, they become part of the journey. You don’t ask, "Why is this happening to me?" You ask, "How can this challenge help me get closer to my purpose?" Your "why" gives meaning to the struggle and helps you see a way forward, even in the darkest moments.
So, how do you find this North Star within you? It starts with reflection. Ask yourself some honest questions: When do you feel most alive and energised? What problems in the world do you feel most compelled to solve? What would you do if you knew you couldn’t fail? These aren't easy questions, and the answers may not come instantly. They require quiet time and introspection. Journaling, talking with a trusted friend, or even just taking long walks alone can help you listen to that quiet voice inside.
Once you have a clearer sense of your "why," your life begins to change. Decisions that once felt difficult, from choosing a job to how you spend your free time, become much clearer. You're no longer just reactive; you’re intentional. This newfound clarity doesn't just make you more effective—it makes you more fulfilled. Your actions become aligned with your beliefs, creating a powerful sense of meaning and peace.
Embracing your "why" isn’t the end of the journey; it’s the beginning. It's the map that guides you, the light that illuminates the path, and the driving force that ensures you don’t just live, but truly thrive.