The Power of Pursuing Your Passion

The Journey Begins

I first met Paul four years ago when he was referred to me during my marketing outreach to local businesses. Paul had a keen interest in personal and professional development. Our initial conversation led to intriguing discussions, and Paul subsequently attended many of the classes I conducted. Two years ago, he participated in my purpose discovery workshop, which led to his purpose statement: "I eagerly seek to acquire and share knowledge to be of benefit to all."

Paul confessed that he had always aspired to be a public speaker, and his purpose statement was a clear reflection of this ambition. Recognizing his natural inclination and desire to contribute, Paul began to reshape his life to chase his dream. We initiated a weekly coaching program, and he joined Toastmasters to refine his speaking skills. From that point, there was no looking back.

The Unlikely Hero

Paul's company is a small independent wholesale supplier of cleaning and sanitation products. While this may not seem glamorous, Paul's real passion lies in infection control. He has dedicated himself to developing expertise in cleaning and infection control to prevent healthy individuals from falling ill and to aid the recovery of the sick. Although he is not a scientist, Paul comprehends the science of infection control. His real specialty, however, is the Art of Infection Control. He is the go-to person in his local healthcare community for advice on what to do and how to do it.

Today, in addition to running his business, Paul speaks at conferences and connects leading experts in the field of infection control with frontline hospital and nursing home staff across the country by leading and facilitating group TeleLectures.

Overcoming Obstacles

Two years ago, despite his desire to speak in front of groups, Paul was hindered by a slight stutter. It was only when he realized his purpose, "...to acquire and share knowledge..." that he decided to overcome his hesitation and go for it.

Paul has now built an excellent reputation and is recognized as an "expert" in his field within just two years. He doesn't have a Ph.D. in science, but he doesn't need one. He relies on others' scientific expertise when necessary and makes a significant contribution through his knowledge of "The Art of Infection Control" -- how to apply the science.

Living the Dream

Education in the Art of Infection Control is Paul's means of impacting the world. Initially, Paul had many doubts about making this happen. He thought he needed a degree, that no one would take him seriously, and that he didn't know how to speak to groups. However, he overcame all these "issues" and is indeed living his dream. His goal of speaking and sharing his knowledge and insights aligns with his identity. It "just seems natural." When you act in alignment with your deepest drive to contribute, it never really feels like work.

Staying on Track

Even when we know the direction we want to go, we can sometimes lose our way. We lose sight of our goal; we forget why we're doing something, or perhaps the daily pressures and distractions make it seem like we're off track. Maybe we think our purpose is not big enough.

So, when Paul called me last week, expressing doubt about whether he was on track or if his purpose was correct, we took some time to review his purpose. We only question if we're off track when we're in doubt, when we lose focus, when our vision is cloudy. Most of us don't review if we're on purpose when we're feeling great, focused, and aligned.

Reconnecting with Purpose

In reviewing his purpose, I asked Paul if he was still "eagerly seeking to acquire and share his knowledge". He said yes. Then I asked him to look at his drive to do this and "to be of benefit to all". He confirmed that this was still his goal. When asked if his purpose still reflected his deepest drive to contribute, he responded with a resounding "YES!" He realized that his purpose was indeed still valid and that he had lost focus.

Paul reconnected with his purpose. Because of the clarity of his actions and intention, Paul is doing incredible things in all aspects of his life. His business, his church life, and his relationships all continue to grow and align with his unique contribution, despite occasional feelings of doubt or distraction. Living a meaningful life, one of purpose, is an evolving process. In fact, it's a lifetime job.

The True Measure of Success

We often equate success with being on purpose. But note: you can be 100% on purpose and not necessarily succeed or reach your goal. Your purpose is about your drive to contribute. It is "what you are trying to do" and at which you may or may not succeed. Purpose is the driver. In Paul's case, the driver is "to acquire and share knowledge to be of benefit to all."

Even if he is unsuccessful in acquiring a certain piece of knowledge or in clearly sharing his knowledge, this does not mean he is not on purpose. The mere act of attempting to acquire and trying to share knowledge shows alignment with purpose.

We all want to be successful, but it is not the only criteria by which we measure your alignment with your purpose. We measure being on purpose as the process of authentically seeking to create the results you want. It is the process of being and doing and is not necessarily tied to immediate results.

Great leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, Martin Luther King, Jr., and Nelson Mandela all strived for years in the service of their purpose, often meeting with defeat after defeat. They too may have had setbacks and doubts, yet continued to stay focused on their purpose.

If you get stuck, try stepping back from the "results" and look at the bigger process. Are your actions aligned with your deepest drive to contribute and live a purposeful life? Only you know, and your answers will reveal to you if you are on purpose. You may need to make a few adjustments or maybe, if you are like Paul, just need a reminder that you are on the right track.