If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed or stuck trying to figure out your life purpose, you’re not alone. Many people feel pressured to define it early, commit to one thing forever, or think they’re somehow “behind” if they haven’t found it yet. Sadly, society puts a lot of pressure on us around this topic and most of the widely held beliefs are just not true.
In this article, I will debunk some of the most common myths and define what your life purpose truly is, and how you can relax and be clear as you take action on your life’s path. If you prefer to watch instead of read, I’ve also shared this message in a video version of the blog you can check out here.
What Is Life Purpose?
Myth #1: You Should Know Your Life Purpose by Age 18
Your life purpose is your over riding mission at a particular point in your life and the way you are meant to serve others and contribute to the greater good. It is not necessarily linked to your work or career but will bring you fulfillment in a way that nothing else will.
When you are living your purpose:
- You will feel lit up and energized.
- You will naturally contribute to one or many in a meaningful way.
- You will experience a deeper sense of joy and alignment in your life.
Many people graduate high school or college thinking they are supposed to have it all figured out. But your life purpose does not come with a deadline.
In fact, your purpose will change and evolve over time, so you can take the pressure off yourself to “get it right.”
Your purpose can and should evolve as you do. As you grow, gain life experience, develop new skills and form new relationships, you become someone who is able to contribute in different ways.
You are not the same person at 20 as you will be at 40 or 60, and that is a good thing. We are meant to gain knowledge and improve skills our entire life, so you will be well served to stay open to new inspiration as you traverse your life’s journey.
Myth #2: Your Purpose Never Changes
I eluded to this above. Your life will not be static, and how you contribute to others should not be either.
We live in a world of constant transition. New industries emerge. Global challenges shift. Our collective needs as societies evolve. That means your unique role in helping others may look different at different stages of life.
Myth #3: Our life has One Purpose
Some people have one consistent purpose throughout life. Others have many.
It is more accurate to think in terms of a life path rather than a single destination. Each stage prepares you for what’s next—skills, connections, and experiences all combine to guide you toward your current purpose.
It is not just possible but probable that you will fulfill multiple purposes over your lifetime.
Myth #4: If You Haven’t Found your purpose, You are wasting your life
This is a big misunderstanding. Often we will spend years in between or seeking our purpose and each step taken may be an important part of your life’s path, leading you toward your purpose.
Many people spend years acquiring the exact knowledge, connections, and awareness they will later use to serve others in meaningful ways. Stay curious and continue to seek new knowledge and experiences, and enjoy the journey. Everything you feel compelled to do along your path can be impactful and bring you joy.
Myth #5: Your Career Must be part of Your Purpose
Your job may align with your purpose, but it does not have to.
You might feel your most fulfilled and in alignment with your life’s purpose when you are volunteering, parenting, mentoring others, or simply showing up for people in a way that only you can.
Your purpose will delight you but not necessarily pay your bills. It does not have to be a full time endeavor to be a significant way to contribute.
How to Discover and Live Your Life Purpose
Here are a few tips to help you get clear on your life purpose:
- Stay curious. Do not be afraid to explore new paths, even if they’re unfamiliar.
- Notice what lights you up. Your purpose will always energize you.
- Ask how you can serve. True purpose always contributes to one or many.
- Tap into your inner wisdom. The only way to know if you are heading in the right direction is to ask for and follow your guidance.
- Trust the process. You are never behind. Your learning and skill development along the way is an integral part of the journey. Enjoy it.
Your Purpose Is Unfolding
Now is a time of massive changes on the planet. As the world evolves, your path and purpose will as well. It may involve expanding what you currently do or pivoting completely.
Be patient. Be open to inspired ideas and exploring them. And remember you are never behind but right where you need to be.
