This archive report was first published on 16 July 2020.
Imagine having a clear picture of your life's purpose, guiding you through every decision and opportunity that comes your way. This is the power of having a well-defined blueprint for your life.
As a coach, I've worked with many leaders who can articulate their organization's strategy but struggle to plan their own lives. It's as if they have a jigsaw puzzle with the pieces but no picture to guide them. A clear picture, or purpose, acts as a compass, giving direction and clarity.
So, how do you discover your life's purpose? I start with what I call 'Life's Big 4 questions.' These questions are surprisingly simple yet profound:
- What were you born to do?
- Where are you going?
- What are your non-negotiables (your North Star)?
- Why are you doing what you're doing?
Let's break down each question:
- What were you born to do? This question helps you understand your purpose and why you were created. Without a clear purpose, life becomes an experiment, and you're vulnerable to being opportunity-driven rather than purpose-driven.
- Where are you going? This question helps you clarify your vision and goals. Your vision should align with your purpose, and it's essential to have a clear picture of what you want to achieve in life.
- What are your non-negotiables (your North Star)? This question helps you identify what's essential to you and what you won't compromise on. Your North Star statement should serve as a filter for every opportunity that comes your way, ensuring it aligns with your values and goals.
- Why are you doing what you're doing? This question helps you understand your motive and why you're pursuing a particular goal or opportunity. Your motive should be greater than your fears, and it's what will keep you going even when faced with adversity.
As I reflect on my own life, I've defined my purpose as transforming Africa, one mind at a time. My vision is to have a positive impact on the world, and my North Star statement is to live a life pleasing to God, with a family guided by love, and to live a life that impacts my world and gives me a name and financial capacity to live my life on my own terms.
Having a clear blueprint for your life can save you from a lot of trouble and regret later in life. It's essential to take the time to reflect on your purpose, vision, non-negotiables, and motive. By doing so, you'll have a clear direction and clarity, helping you make decisions that align with your values and goals.
