I have a question for you… How many individuals do you think can clearly state their purpose and how their passions drive their daily life? For 27 years, I was invincible. I took my fully functioning spine for granted and filled every day with as many physical activities as I could: Running, biking, hiking, etc. I just craved adrenaline. My identity was rooted in this lifestyle.
The Moment Everything Changed
I remember hearing stories of people breaking bones over the years. And of course, I grimace at the thought, but these anecdotes never really touched my heart in any meaningful way. That is, until a dreary September day when I fell from 15 feet and broke my back. Lists, schedules, bullet points, pens, pencils, fresh papers, sticky notes, highlighters—these are some of my favorite things.
I’ve been making lists since I could clutch a pencil. Having over 20 years of experience jotting down yearly, monthly, and even daily lists, I consider myself (pretty much) a professional at making and completing them. But regardless of how many things I could check off in a day, my soul was not satisfied. And now, lying on a cold and flat hospital bed, unable to move, my purpose of being productive was no longer accessible.
Create Change
Like Gandhi once said, “Be the change you want to see in the world.” Prior to breaking my back, I confused what I did with who I was. The period of time I spent lying in the hospital bed, being extremely unproductive physically, was my most productive time internally. I learned that circumstances will always change based on life’s seasons.
If our purpose is placed in what we do, we will forever be left longing. But if our purpose is grounded in who we are, then our roles and actions can flow from it, regardless of life’s unpredictability.
Reflection Time
Reflecting is all about looking at where you are, what got you there, and what you need to do to move forward toward your goals, dreams, and ambitions. There are a few simple steps you can take to reflect and move forward. They are the following:
- Clarity: Clearly and concisely write down what your purpose in life is or what you want for yourself in the future. Consider what you want to come to other people’s minds when they think about you. What overarching theme do you want others to feel.
- Courage: Consider what external and internal obstacles could be keeping you from living in alignment with your passions and purpose.
- Change: What are a few specific, small steps you can take right now to begin moving toward that better, more compelling vision for your life?
These are the simple things you can do to start moving forward in a more positive direction. They will help you to embody your purpose, create a life of meaning, and truly live your passion in ways that you never thought possible before.
Final Thoughts
Passion and purpose are the driving forces that will propel your life forward. Learn how to tap into yours, and life will never be the same again. And we at Certified Flourishing Coach can help. We are a team of expert coaches and facilitators here to help you start thriving in both your personal and professional life. So, if you’re ready to reach your next level, contact us today to learn more.
About The Author
Mikayla is evidently a life-long learner with over 10 years of teaching experience in various educational realms, and over 9 years of post-secondary education.
Her Saulteaux Cree heritage and passion to see other indigenous individuals succeed in life led her to complete her Master’s Degree with Indigenous Perspectives in Education.
Mikayla loves to come alongside individuals who desire to create holistic lives they are satisfied with and fully enjoy. She utilizes coaching strategies to help people become clear on their life purpose, connect to their passions, foster positive growth mindsets, and identify areas calling out for growth. Mikayla is also a Certified Flourishing Coach.
Mikayla supports individuals throughout their personal development journey, meeting them right where they are and honoring their unique transformational process.