More important than goal-setting, a foundational step for living your dreams is to invest time in understanding your big “WHY.”
Have you ever set out on a journey without knowing why you're taking it? Imagine hopping onto a train without a destination in mind. You'd be traveling aimlessly, without purpose or direction. Now, let's transpose this scenario onto the journey of life. Goals are like destinations - they give us something to strive for, a target to aim at. But before you even decide where you want to go, there's something even more crucial: understanding your big "WHY."
Your big "WHY" is the compass that guides your journey through life. It's the driving force behind everything you do, the fuel that propels you forward when the going gets tough. Without a clear understanding of your "WHY," your goals become hollow, devoid of meaning. It's like trying to build a house without laying a solid foundation. Sure, you might put up walls and a roof, but without that sturdy base, it's only a matter of time before the whole thing comes crashing down.
Think of your "WHY" as the roots of a tree. Just as roots anchor a tree to the ground and supply it with nutrients, your "WHY" grounds you in your purpose and sustains you through life's storms. When you know why you're doing something, it becomes much easier to stay motivated and focused, even when faced with obstacles. You're no longer just going through the motions; you're driven by a deeper sense of purpose that gives meaning to your actions.
But uncovering your big "WHY" isn't always easy. It requires introspection, soul-searching, and a willingness to confront uncomfortable truths. It's like digging for buried treasure - you have to be willing to get your hands dirty and sift through the dirt to find the gold. And just like treasure, your big "WHY" is often hidden beneath layers of fear, doubt, and societal expectations. It takes courage to peel back those layers and discover what truly matters to you.
Once you've unearthed your big "WHY," it becomes a powerful tool for shaping your life. It serves as a filter through which you can evaluate your goals and decisions, ensuring that they align with your values and aspirations. Like a lighthouse guiding ships safely to shore, your "WHY" helps you navigate the murky waters of life, steering you away from distractions and towards your true north.
But here's the thing about your big "WHY" - it's not set in stone. Just as the landscape of life changes, so too can your reasons for doing what you do. What may have once been your driving force may evolve over time, as you gain new experiences and insights. That's why it's important to regularly revisit and reassess your big "WHY," to ensure that it continues to reflect who you are and what you value.
So, how do you uncover your big "WHY"? Start by asking yourself some probing questions. What are you passionate about? What brings you joy and fulfillment? What legacy do you want to leave behind? Take the time to reflect on your answers, journaling or meditating if it helps. And don't be afraid to seek guidance from others - sometimes an outside perspective can shed light on aspects of yourself that you may not have considered.
As you delve deeper into your big "WHY," you'll begin to see patterns emerge, threads that connect seemingly disparate aspects of your life. Pay attention to these patterns, as they hold clues to your true purpose. And remember, uncovering your big "WHY" is not a one-time event, but an ongoing journey of self-discovery. Embrace the process, and trust that with time and patience, you'll find the clarity and direction you seek.
Now, I leave you with this question: What steps will you take today to uncover your big "WHY" and live a life of purpose and meaning?
*To obtain more inspiration and motivation to achieve your goals, you definitely want to check out my extensive list of growth goals. This page contains SMART goal ideas that can help you establish new aspirations and attain greater heights in your personal growth journey. I utilized this page myself to create my own list of 100 life goals, which I dedicated a decade to pursuing.
Chief Editor
Tal Gur is an author, founder, and impact-driven entrepreneur at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own daring design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 major life goals around the globe. His journey and most recent book, The Art of Fully Living, has led him to found Elevate Society.
