Leaving your long-term corporate career can be a double-edged sword.
While the newfound freedom is liberating, it can also leave a void.
The built-in purpose provided by company missions and team goals disappears, often leading to feelings of restlessness and a lack of direction.
This is where finding your "Why" becomes not just a luxury, but a necessity for a fulfilling next chapter.
Now stay with me here.
I know finding your "Why" is too touchy-feely for some of you.
Research has shown a clear link between a strong sense of purpose and a longer, healthier, and happier life.
So, how do you find your purpose?
It’s not about waiting for a lightning bolt of inspiration.
Instead, it’s a process of self-discovery.
A powerful framework for this is the "Purpose Formula": Gifts + Passions + Values = Purpose.
Your "Gifts" are your natural talents and the skills you've honed over the years.
Your "Passions" are the activities and causes that genuinely energize you.
Your "Values" are your core principles that guide your life.
The intersection of these three elements is where your purpose lies.
It's also crucial to distinguish between a "calling" and an "obligation."
A calling is something that pulls you forward, filling you with energy and enthusiasm.
An obligation, on the other hand, is a "should" that drains you.
Many executives fall into the trap of pursuing unfulfilling paths based on external expectations.
The key is to listen to your energy.
What activities make you feel alive?
That's your clue.To make this more concrete, you can explore various "Purpose Pathways."
These could include becoming a mentor, a problem-solver, a creator, or an advocate.
Often, a fulfilling purpose combines elements from multiple pathways.
The goal is to create a personal "Purpose Statement" that acts as your North Star, guiding your decisions and actions.
This statement should focus on the impact you want to have, rather than specific activities, and it should feel authentic and energizing.
Discovering Your Why
Take 15 minutes to reflect on the following:
- Gifts: What are 3-5 of your key talents and skills?
- Passions: What are 3-5 activities or causes you care about deeply?
- Values: What are your top 3 core values?
Now, look for the connections.
How can you use your gifts to serve your passions in a way that aligns with your values?
Write a short paragraph about what this exercise reveals about your potential purpose.
Ted
P.S. If you found that exercise insightful but are still struggling to connect the dots, you're not alone.
I created a free tool to help you take the next step.
It’s designed to guide you through turning your unique experience and passions into a concrete plan for your next chapter.
Click here to access the free tool and start building your Epic Encore.
