Unleashing Your Unique Purpose: Breaking Free from Expectations

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Keisha Golder

Introduction

Have you ever felt like you were living someone else’s life? You went to college because it was expected of you, or you took a job that you thought you “should” take, rather than following your own passions and interests. We all have expectations placed on us by society, our families, and even ourselves. But what if you could break free from those expectations and discover your own unique purpose in life? Imagine living a life that is truly your own, where you wake up every day excited about the possibilities that lie ahead. In this post, we’ll explore the importance of discovering your unique purpose, and the steps you can take to make it a reality. Grab a cup of coffee or tea and let’s dive in!

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Why It’s So Hard to Find Your Life Purpose in Life 

Why is it so darn hard to find our purpose in life? It’s a question that has been plaguing humanity for centuries. We’re all searching for that one thing that gives our lives meaning, that makes us feel like we’re making a difference in the world. But the reality is, there are so many things that can hold us back from finding our purpose. From cultural and societal expectations to our own limiting beliefs, it can feel like we’re swimming upstream. Not to mention the fear of failure and the pressure to “get it right” that can keep us from taking risks and trying new things. We’ll explore these challenges and how to overcome them so that you can start living a purpose-driven life.

Cultural and societal expectations

We’re all familiar with the pressure to conform to cultural and societal expectations. From an early age, we’re taught what is considered “normal” and “acceptable” behavior. We’re told what we should study in school, what jobs we should pursue, and even how we should dress and act. These expectations can be so ingrained in us that we don’t even realize they’re there. And it’s not just external pressure – we often internalize these expectations and hold ourselves to impossible standards. But the truth is, we’ll never find our purpose if we’re constantly living someone else’s version of our lives. It’s time to break free from these expectations and discover what truly lights us up inside.

Stick person breaking free from a group of stick people

Fear of failure

Ah, the fear of failure – it’s one of the biggest obstacles standing in the way of us finding our purpose. We all want to be successful, but we’re so afraid of failing that we don’t even try. We’re paralyzed by the thought of not measuring up or disappointing others. But here’s the thing: failure is not the opposite of success, it’s a necessary part of the process. Every successful person has failed at something, multiple times. It’s through those failures that we learn, grow, and become better versions of ourselves. So, don’t let the fear of failure hold you back from finding your purpose. Embrace it, learn from it, and keep moving forward. You never know where it might lead you.

Lack of self-awareness

When it comes to finding our purpose, self-awareness is key. But the reality is, many of us struggle with understanding ourselves. We’re so busy keeping up with the demands of everyday life that we don’t take the time to really reflect on who we are and what makes us tick. We might have a vague idea of what we’re good at or what we enjoy, but we haven’t dug deep enough to uncover our true passions and values. It’s only through self-awareness that we can discover our purpose and start living a life that is truly aligned with who we are. So, take some time to really get to know yourself. Ask yourself the tough questions and be honest with your answers. It might feel uncomfortable at first, but trust me, it’s worth it.

The impact of limiting beliefs

Limiting beliefs are another big obstacle when it comes to finding our purpose. These are the beliefs we hold about ourselves that limit our potential and keep us playing small. You believe that you’re not smart enough, not talented enough, or not deserving enough to pursue your dreams. These beliefs can be so ingrained in us that we don’t even realize they’re there, but they can have a significant impact on our lives. The good news is these beliefs are not set in stone. We have the power to challenge them and reframe our thinking. It’s time to let go of the beliefs that are holding us back and start believing in ourselves and our potential. Once we do that, the possibilities are endless.

Examining Our Inner Selves

If we want to discover our purpose and live a fulfilling life, we need to examine our inner selves. This means taking a deep dive into our values, passions, and what truly brings us joy. We need to be willing to get vulnerable and confront the parts of ourselves that we may have been avoiding. It’s not a painless process, but it’s essential if we want to create a life that’s authentic and aligned with who we are. This might mean taking a break from the distractions of everyday life, such as social media or our busy work schedules, to spend some time alone with our thoughts. It’s in these moments of introspection that we can really start to uncover our purpose and what makes us come alive. So, let’s start examining our inner selves and see what we find.

Reflecting on past experiences

Our past experiences can provide valuable insight into our purpose and what we’re meant to do in this world. When we reflect on our past, we can start to see patterns and themes that have been present throughout our lives. We’ve always been drawn to helping others, or we’ve had a natural talent for writing or music. These experiences can be clues that point us in the direction of our purpose. It’s also important to examine the challenges we’ve faced in our past and how we’ve overcome them. These struggles can be a source of strength and resilience that we can draw upon as we pursue our purpose. By reflecting on our past experiences, we can start to connect the dots and see a clearer picture of where we’re meant to go next.

Identifying our values

When we identify our values, we gain a better understanding of what’s important to us. Our values are the guiding principles that shape our decisions and actions, and they can have a significant impact on our sense of purpose. To identify our values, we need to ask ourselves some tough questions. What brings us the most joy and fulfillment? What do we stand for? What kind of person do we want to be? Once we’ve identified our values, we can start to align our actions with them and create a life that’s in line with what truly matters to us. This can be a powerful tool in discovering our purpose and living a life that’s authentic and meaningful. So, let’s take the time to identify our values and use them as a compass as we navigate our way forward.

Woman breaking through glass

Examining our dreams and aspirations

Our dreams and aspirations can provide important clues about our purpose and what we’re meant to do in this world. When we examine our dreams, we can start to uncover our deepest desires and what truly drives us. You've always dreamed of traveling the world or starting your own business. These dreams can be a source of inspiration that motivates us to pursue our purpose. However, it’s important to remember that our dreams don’t have to be grandiose or unrealistic to be meaningful. Even small dreams and aspirations can provide a sense of direction and purpose in our lives. By examining our dreams and aspirations, we can start to understand what truly matters to us and what we want to achieve in our lives. So, let’s start exploring our dreams and see where they take us.

Importance of gaining a deeper understanding of ourselves

Gaining a deeper understanding of ourselves is crucial when it comes to finding our purpose in life. When we know ourselves well, we’re better equipped to make decisions that are in line with our values and goals. We can recognize our strengths and weaknesses and work on improving ourselves. By gaining a deeper understanding of ourselves, we can also identify the things that truly matter to us and what we want to achieve in our lives. This self-awareness can help us live a more fulfilling life and create a path that’s in line with our purpose. Take the time to get to know ourselves better and uncover the things that make us unique and special.

Exploring Different Paths

Exploring different paths is an important part of finding our purpose in life. We may have an idea of what we want to do, but it’s important to be open to different possibilities and opportunities that come our way. Trying out new things can help us discover new passions and interests that we never knew we had. It can also provide valuable experiences and skills that we can use in pursuing our purpose. Don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone and take risks. Sometimes the things that scare us the most are the things that can lead us to our purpose. 

Letting go of limiting beliefs and assumptions

Letting go of limiting beliefs and assumptions is essential in the pursuit of our purpose. Often, we hold onto negative beliefs about ourselves and our abilities that prevent us from taking the necessary steps towards achieving our goals. These beliefs can be deeply ingrained and may have been passed down to us from childhood. However, it’s important to recognize that these beliefs are not necessarily true and can be challenged. We can start by identifying these limiting beliefs and questioning their validity. By doing this, we can free ourselves from self-imposed limitations and open ourselves up to new possibilities. Let’s not allow our limiting beliefs and assumptions to hold us back from living the life we truly deserve.

Trying new things and taking risks

Trying new things and taking risks can be scary, but it’s an important part of discovering our purpose in life. When we step out of our comfort zones, we allow ourselves to grow and learn in ways that we never thought possible. Taking risks can lead to new opportunities and experiences that we may never have encountered if we stayed within our safety net. If you’re feeling stuck or unsure about your purpose, try something new. Take a class, attend a workshop, or even travel to a new place. Don’t be afraid to take risks and embrace the unknown. You never know what you may discover about yourself and your purpose in life.

Stepping out of our comfort zones

Stepping out of our comfort zones can be challenging, but it’s necessary to live a purposeful life. Our comfort zones may feel safe and familiar, but they can also hold us back from achieving our full potential. When we take risks and try new things, we push ourselves to grow and learn in ways that we never thought possible. It’s important to remember that growth and change can be uncomfortable, but they’re necessary for personal development. Take a step outside of your comfort zone if you’re feeling stuck or uninspired. You may be surprised at what you discover about yourself and your purpose in life.

Importance of staying open-minded and curious

Staying open-minded and curious is essential when it comes to discovering our unique purpose in life. When we close ourselves off to new ideas and experiences, we limit our growth and potential. By staying curious and open-minded, we allow ourselves to learn and explore new things, which can lead us to unexpected paths and opportunities. It’s important to approach life with a sense of wonder and curiosity, even in the face of uncertainty. Stay open to new experiences and ideas and embrace the journey of discovering your purpose in life. Who knows what you might find when you approach life with an open mind and heart.

How Do You Plan to Realize Your Purpose in This Life?

Realizing our purpose in life is a journey, and there are many paths we can take to get there. One key step is to set clear goals and intentions for ourselves. When we know what we want and where we’re headed, we’re more likely to act and make progress towards our purpose. It’s also important to cultivate a sense of resilience and determination. Finding our purpose in life can be challenging, and we may encounter setbacks and obstacles along the way. By staying committed to our goals and persevering through challenges, we can overcome them and continue to move forward. Finally, it’s essential to stay true to ourselves and our values. When we align our actions with our values, we live with purpose and intention. Take the time to reflect on your goals, cultivate resilience, and stay true to yourself on your journey to realizing your purpose in life.

Identifying actionable steps

Identifying actionable steps is like creating a roadmap to our purpose. It helps us to see the path ahead and break it down into small, achievable steps that lead us towards our ultimate destination. But it’s not always easy to know where to start, especially if we feel overwhelmed or uncertain about our direction in life. One helpful approach is to start by identifying the things that inspire and motivate us. What are our passions and interests? What are the things that bring us the most joy and fulfillment? Once we have a clear sense of what we want to achieve, we can start to map out the steps we need to take to get there. This might involve setting goals, creating a timeline, and breaking down larger tasks into smaller, more manageable ones. With each step we take, we gain momentum and move closer to realizing our purpose. And along the way, we learn and grow, gaining new skills and insights that help us to become the best version of ourselves.

Creating a plan 

Now that you have identified actionable steps towards realizing your life purpose, it’s time to create a plan. Break down your goals into smaller, more manageable steps and assign deadlines to each one. Be specific and realistic about what you can achieve within a given period. Create a vision board or write down your plan in a journal to keep yourself accountable. Remember that your plan is not set in stone - be open to adjusting it as you go along and as your understanding of yourself and your purpose evolves. With a clear plan in place, you’ll be well on your way to living a purposeful and fulfilling life.

Importance of taking consistent action

Creating a plan is just the first step towards realizing your purpose in life. The next step is to take consistent action towards your goals. It’s not enough to simply plan - you need to follow through with it. Consistent action is the key to making progress and achieving your dreams. It’s important to stay motivated and focused on your goals, even when you encounter obstacles or setbacks. Remember that success is not always linear - there will be difficulties along the way. But if you stay committed to your purpose and take consistent action towards your goals, you’ll eventually get there. So don’t give up - keep pushing forward and take one step at a time towards the life you want to live.

Recognizing the potential challenges and roadblocks

While creating a plan is crucial to realizing our life purpose, it’s equally important to anticipate potential challenges and roadblocks that may arise along the way. Recognizing these obstacles beforehand allows us to prepare ourselves mentally and emotionally for the tough times that may lie ahead. It’s essential to understand that the journey to finding and fulfilling our life purpose is not always smooth sailing. There may be moments of self-doubt, setbacks, and failures. However, it’s crucial to view these as opportunities to learn and grow, rather than letting them discourage us from pursuing our dreams. With a clear plan in place and the right mindset, we can overcome any obstacle that comes our way and continue moving forward towards our unique purpose in life.

Creating a Path to Our Unique Purpose

Discovering our unique purpose in life is a journey that requires time, patience, and effort. It may not happen overnight, but taking the necessary steps to get there is key. By breaking free from expectations, examining our inner selves, and exploring different paths, we can gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and what truly matters to us. From there, we can create a plan and take consistent action towards our goals. It’s important to remember that challenges and roadblocks may arise, but with determination and a willingness to step out of our comfort zones, we can create a path towards our unique purpose in life.

Aligning our purpose with our values and passions

Have you ever felt like something is missing in your life, even if you have everything you thought you wanted? It could be that you haven't aligned your purpose with your values and passions. When we do work that is aligned with what we care about and what brings us joy, we feel fulfilled and energized. Aligning our purpose with our values and passions can take some self-reflection and exploration, but the effort is well worth it. When we do work that speaks to us, we are more likely to be successful and find happiness in our careers and personal lives. Take the time to identify your values and passions and find ways to align them with your purpose. You won't regret it.

Letting go of certain expectations and beliefs

Hey there! Let’s talk about letting go of certain expectations and beliefs. I know it can be tough to release something that we’ve held onto for a long time but hear me out. When we let go of these things, we create space for new opportunities and experiences. It’s like decluttering your closet - once you get rid of the clothes that no longer fit or serve you, you can make room for new pieces that you love. The same goes for our beliefs and expectations. Sometimes, we hold onto them because we think they define us or provide us with a sense of security. But they can hold us back from living our best lives. So, it’s time to reevaluate and let go of what no longer serves us. Trust me, it’s a process, but one that is worth it in the end.

Recognizing the potential challenges and roadblocks

Let’s talk about recognizing potential challenges and roadblocks. Now, I know it’s not the most exciting topic, but hear me out. When we acknowledge the obstacles that may come our way, we can better prepare ourselves to overcome them. It’s like going on a road trip - before we hit the road, we check the map and plan out our route, including any potential detours or road closures. This way, we’re not caught off guard and we’re able to adapt to whatever comes our way. The same goes for life. By recognizing potential challenges and roadblocks, we can create a plan of action and stay focused on our goals. It’s not about dwelling on the negative, but rather, being proactive and prepared. Take a deep breath, put on your problem-solving hat, and let’s tackle those challenges head-on.

Ladder breaking through the ceiling and leading to the sky

What Does It Mean to Have a Meaningless Life?

Okay, let’s dive into the deep end here - what does it mean to have a meaningless life? It’s a heavy question, but an important one to ask ourselves. When we talk about a “meaningless” life, we’re really talking about a life that lacks purpose or fulfillment. It’s a life where we feel like we’re just going through the motions, without any real direction or passion. And let’s be honest, that’s not a great place to be. But here’s the thing - a meaningless life is not something that’s predetermined or permanent. It’s something that we have the power to change. It starts with asking ourselves what truly matters to us and what brings us joy and fulfillment. It’s pursuing a career that aligns with our values, volunteering for a cause we’re passionate about, or simply spending more time with loved ones. The bottom line is, we all have the power to create a life that is full of purpose and meaning. 

The impact of living without purpose

Living without purpose can have a profound impact on our lives. Without a clear sense of direction, we may feel lost, unmotivated, and unfulfilled. We may wander aimlessly, searching for something to give our lives meaning and purpose. This can lead to feelings of frustration, anxiety, and depression, as we struggle to find our place in the world. Without a purpose to guide us, we may make poor decisions, lack focus, and fail to achieve our goals. We may also struggle to find meaningful connections with others, as we are unable to articulate our values and beliefs. Ultimately, living without purpose can leave us feeling disconnected, adrift, and alone. It is only by discovering our passions and identifying our purpose that we can truly live a meaningful and fulfilling life.

The dangers of external validation

Today, it’s all too easy to fall into the trap of seeking external validation. We constantly compare ourselves to others, striving for likes, followers, and accolades. But the dangers of this mindset are clear. When we rely on others for validation, we give away our power and our sense of self-worth. We become trapped in a cycle of seeking approval, constantly looking to others for validation and reassurance. This can lead to a lack of confidence, self-doubt, and a feeling of never being good enough. The pursuit of external validation can also lead us down a path of inauthenticity, as we tailor our behavior and our choices to please others, rather than following our own path. The quest for external validation can leave us feeling empty and unfulfilled. It’s only by finding validation from within, by recognizing our own worth and following our own passions, that we can live a truly authentic and fulfilling life.

The importance of finding meaning and purpose

Life can often feel like a never-ending journey, with no clear destination in sight. But finding meaning and purpose can be the key to unlocking a fulfilling and satisfying life. Without a sense of purpose, we can feel adrift, lacking direction and motivation. We may find ourselves caught up in the hustle and bustle of daily life, without any sense of what it all means. But when we discover our purpose, we gain a newfound sense of clarity and focus. We’re able to set goals that align with our values and passions, and we’re motivated to work towards them with a renewed sense of purpose. Finding meaning and purpose can also give us a sense of connection, as we’re able to see how our actions contribute to something greater than ourselves. It can bring a sense of fulfillment, as we’re able to see the positive impact that we’re making in the world. Ultimately, finding meaning and purpose can be the key to living a truly satisfying and fulfilling life, one that’s full of joy, purpose, and meaning.

Living a Fulfilling Life

We all want to live a fulfilling life, but what does that really mean? Is it about achieving success, finding happiness, or something else entirely? The truth is, living a fulfilling life is different for everyone. For some, it might mean achieving their goals and living their dreams. For others, it might mean finding meaning and purpose in their work or their relationships. Regardless of what it means to us individually, living a fulfilling life requires intentionality and a willingness to explore what truly brings us joy and satisfaction. It might mean taking risks, trying new things, or stepping out of our comfort zones. It might mean letting go of what no longer serves us, and making space for the things that do. But one thing is certain - living a fulfilling life is possible for each one of us, if we’re willing to put in the effort and commit to living a life that’s aligned with our values and passions.

Benefits of living in alignment with our unique purpose 

Living in alignment with our unique purpose can be one of the most rewarding experiences of our lives. When we’re living our purpose, we feel a deep sense of satisfaction, fulfillment, and joy. We’re able to tap into our natural talents and abilities and use them to make a positive impact in the world. Living in alignment with our purpose can also bring a sense of clarity and direction to our lives. We’re able to set goals that align with our values and passions, and we’re motivated to work towards them with a renewed sense of purpose. By living in alignment with our purpose, we’re also able to bring our whole selves to our work and our relationships. We’re able to be authentic and true to ourselves, and this can foster deeper connections with others. Ultimately, living in alignment with our purpose can lead to a sense of inner peace and contentment. It can bring a sense of meaning and purpose to our lives and help us to live a life that feels truly fulfilling.

Importance of finding joy and meaning in our lives

Finding joy and meaning in our lives is essential to living a fulfilling life. Joy is the spark that makes life worth living, while meaning is the fuel that keeps us going. When we find joy and meaning in our lives, we’re able to live with purpose and intention. We’re able to connect with our passions and interests and use them to create a life that feels truly fulfilling. Finding joy and meaning in our lives can also help us to weather the storms of life. When we have a sense of purpose, we’re better able to navigate the difficulties that come our way. We’re able to find strength and resilience in the face of adversity, and this can help us to emerge stronger and more resilient on the other side. Ultimately, finding joy and meaning in our lives is about living a life that feels authentic and true to ourselves. It’s about being present in the moment and finding joy in the simple things in life. By prioritizing joy and meaning, we can create a life that feels truly fulfilling, no matter what challenges may come our way.

Recognizing the impact of our unique purpose on others

Our unique purpose can have a powerful impact on the world around us, often in ways we may not even realize. When we’re living in alignment with our purpose, we’re able to bring our unique gifts and talents to the table, and this can have a ripple effect on those around us. Whether it’s through our work, our relationships, or our communities, living in alignment with our purpose can help us to make a positive impact on others. We may inspire others to live their own purpose, or we may be able to help them see their own unique gifts and talents. When we’re living our purpose, we’re able to create a sense of possibility and hope, and this can be a powerful force for good in the world. By recognizing the impact of our unique purpose on others, we can tap into a sense of purpose and meaning that goes beyond ourselves. We can be a positive force for change and make a meaningful difference in the world around us.

Conclusion

In conclusion, breaking free from external expectations can be a liberating experience. It allows us to embrace our own unique path and discover our true purpose in life. It takes courage and determination to break free from societal norms and expectations, but the reward is worth it. When we live in alignment with our unique purpose, we’re able to experience a sense of fulfillment and joy that can’t be found anywhere else. I encourage you to embrace the journey of discovering your own unique purpose. Take the time to explore your passions and interests, and don’t be afraid to try new things. Remember that finding your purpose is a journey, not a destination. It may take time, but the journey itself can be incredibly rewarding. And as you embark on this journey, remember that your unique purpose has the power to impact not only your own life, but the lives of those around you as well. Let’s all commit to living a life that’s true to ourselves and let our unique purpose guide us towards a life of joy, fulfillment, and meaning.

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About the Author

Keisha Golder believes reviewing your life should lead to feelings of love, happiness, and gratitude. Often, what people feel though is frustration, regret, and disappointment. So, Keisha decided to do something about it. She began studying psychology and discovered life coaching, which ignited her passion for helping others find their life purpose. She created "Your Life Purpose Makeover Journey," a 3-step system designed to help women "Fully Define Your Unique Purpose...Without Compromising Your Authentic Self."

Keisha is also the creator of the Emotionally Intelligent Teen Method and the author of Bridging The Teen Gap, a transformative guide to building strong, emotionally intelligent connections with teens.

When Keisha isn’t helping women walk in their superpowers or guiding parents through their journeys, she enjoys spending time with her two sons and cultivating healing herbs in her garden.

Keisha Golder

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