Our last post (You Have Been Called) our main theme revolved around the importance of authenticity and that the world needs you to be you. In today’s post we are going to provide insight on how to use our authenticity to find our Calling. Our ultimate goal is how to sift through the noise of life so we can identify our uniqueness, our gifts, and set up an incredibly meaningful life.
“Your profession is not what brings home your weekly paycheck, your profession is what you’re put here on earth to do, with such passion and such intensity that it becomes spiritual in calling.”
― Vincent van Gogh
I wish I had an easy formula for us to follow. It would be great if we could find a fail proof road map on uncovering our unique Calling. It would also be awesome if we could take a magic pill that gives us courage and clarity….
Let’s be clear and upfront on this: There is no formula, map, or magic pill that can unearth our Calling or the song that is singing in our heart. Finding our Calling is a process of discovery and can only be found by taking action while observing our feelings/results. Our Calling leaves clues all over the place if we know where to look…as it is never explicitly stated.
The path that we are looking to take has never been walked before. We are entering the woods where there is no preexisting trail or sign posts to guide our journey. The only thing we know is the song in our heart. This song whispers to us, urges us to enter the woods and begin our journey.
“I believe there’s a calling for all of us. I know that every human being has value and purpose. The real work of our lives is to become aware. And awakened. To answer the call.”
― Oprah Winfrey
Let’s get to it then….where do we start? Where do we push aside the branches and start our adventure? I use the following three questions to triangulate and to get me aimed in the right direction. Even after we are on the path we can use these questions to remind ourself of our purpose.
- What do you do best? What comes natural to you? What do you do so well that an outside observer my say…you’re just a natural? Our answers can be all over the map. I love starting with this type of question because it is a great momentum builder. Everyone has things that they are great at. Our answers can be based on physical (I am great at building things or athletics), intellectual (I am a great problem solver or organizer), or emotional (I am a great listener and empathy is easy for me).
- What are the things in life that you carry the most passion for? What are those things that light you up? What are the things that put the wind in your sails and gets you energized? These questions are where the fun and inspiration are found. When answering these questions our focus should be on those things that we find the most enjoyment in. What gets us up early on the weekend? What can’t we wait to do? These are the things that once we begin we lose track of time and forget to eat.
- What is most meaningful to you? What do you feel your duty is?These questions are not quite as clear as the other two but it perhaps is the most important. This is a personal values based question and may take more thought to net out a clear answer. Another way to position this question is: What are the things if left undone would make us feel personal betrayal at the end of our lives? What needs to be done? Examples of this answer may look like: “I want to be the best parent possible” or “I want to teach others all that I know about such and such”. Spend time with this question because this will be the litmus test as we take action (are we producing the results that are most meaningful to us?).
Understanding our talents, passions, and what matters most providers a wonderful clarity on how to show up in the world. Once we have answered these questions it is time to start to blend them together. This is where our true journey starts. These answers define what action we are to take, how we are meant to interact with others, and what legacy we are to leave behind.
Unearthing our Calling is much like locating and digging out a buried treasure. We have to dig deep. We have to sweat and work it out. Then, once discovered, unearthed, and opened…we are to give it freely to the world.
Make your Calling a priority. Write down your answers and read them often. Create a personal mission statement about them. Shifting your attitude towards your talents, passion, and purpose will amplify the song you hear….this is the path.
As you begin with this new found clarity you may notice the life conforms around you and supports you. Food tastes better, the air smells sweeter, and gratefulness becomes a more natural state.
Say good-bye to mediocrity and merely surviving your day to day struggles. It is time we move the mountains only we were created to move.
Be well
-MJ
Photo by Matt Noble via Unsplash
