Discovering Your True Calling: 9 Words for a Fulfilling Life
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Chapter 1: Understanding Your Passion
Have you identified what truly excites you? This question often brings discomfort, as many individuals feel pressured to discover their one true calling. This notion can be psychologically damaging, leading to the belief that happiness is contingent upon pinpointing a specific purpose in life.
In the realm of self-improvement, there is a misconception propagated by early advocates of the genre. They led us to believe that a meaningful life hinges on clarity about our existence, which we should relentlessly pursue. The common phrases like “discover your passion” or “find a job you love” might seem uplifting, yet they can also be misleading. In reality, work often entails mundane or challenging tasks, which can make us yearn for weekends and holidays.
But let’s shift our focus to finding joy in the activities that illuminate our lives. This might stem from your profession or from other pursuits that genuinely bring you happiness. It’s about engaging in those activities that resonate with you deeply, even when no one is observing. These pursuits enhance our daily existence and provide a sense of fulfillment.
Forget the Quest for One True Calling
Pursuing a singular calling can be counterproductive. Many individuals, particularly the youth or those transitioning into new careers, feel disillusioned when they fail to identify their passion. This discontent can persist into later stages of life, where individuals reflect on missed opportunities to find their calling, perpetuating a cycle of dissatisfaction.
While having a purpose can indeed be rewarding, not everyone experiences a clear path like iconic figures such as Florence Nightingale or Steve Jobs. Most people navigate through life, often feeling overwhelmed by their responsibilities, especially after the challenges posed by a global pandemic.
A recent conversation with a client provided an enlightening perspective. She was engaged in a well-paying job but had taken on a challenging side project with little financial incentive. Her excitement for this project was palpable, yet she never referred to it as her passion. Instead, she expressed her desire to improve: "I just want to get really good at it."
This mindset emphasizes growth and learning over the pressure of achieving a specific outcome. Focusing on mastery rather than passion can alleviate anxiety and procrastination. It allows us to engage with our interests more authentically. As my client aptly put it, pursuing improvement is akin to enjoying "ice cream at midnight."
Stay Curious and Embrace Your Interests
Rather than obsessing over finding your calling, nurture your curiosity. When something captivates your attention and you feel compelled to improve, take note. It may not be your ultimate purpose, but it could be a source of joy and intrigue in an otherwise scattered world.
It might just be your own midnight treat.
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Chapter 2: The Power of Words and Attitude
The first video, "Magic Words: Can What You Say Help You Get Your Way?" features Jonah Berger discussing the influence of language on our lives and the power of words in achieving our goals.
The second video, “The Magic Word” featuring Bob Proctor, offers an inspiring lesson on attitude, encouraging viewers to adopt a positive outlook for personal and professional success.