Do You Know Your Purpose?

From the moment we are able to consciously take in the world around us, everyone longs to know their place. We all want acceptance and clarity on where we fit in on the earth. I know several people who, from childhood seemed to have always known their purpose. When you know, you are more apt to find ambition to achieve your dreams and have a better understanding of who you are meant to be. Perhaps when you were young, you’d often wondered why you were so drawn to serving others, developing and empowering people to get to the next level in their lives, using your mind to create new things or working with your hands to build something new. These are keys that open the door to understanding your God-given destiny.

I discovered that my purpose of living was to help others reach their potential in life and give them the tools they need to succeed. I hear people who have great organizations, riches and popularity, speak about knowing your purpose. As I listen to these outstanding individuals, one thing comes to mind. The importance of service in any capacity, is what brings the ultimate fulfillment in a person’s life. It doesn't matter what you do or how well you do it, you will never have complete satisfaction without having a will to serve others. Mr. Andrew Carnegie was an industrialist and philanthropist who made a name for himself working in the steel industry. He is considered one of the richest people in history. He made all of his riches as an young man and when he reached his older years, he begin to see how much of his wealth he could give back to society. He wanted to leave his mark, not in how much he made as a Steel manufacturer, but in what he gave to others.

I was in a conversation with a gentleman who is a very successful businessman. He said to me, “I know my job well, I have created and helped other business offices understand how to do what I do, but I'm empty. I wake up late at night and sit up asking myself what does all of this mean.” This boggled my mind because many people seek fulfillment in the very things that this man has yet leaves him unsatisfied. This gentleman has everything the cars, houses, businesses, employees and prestigious resources, yet he feels like there's more to him than the things that he possesses. I began to share with him about having a purpose in his heart that only God can fill. You find assurance by the service that you provide to others both naturally, spiritually and emotionally.

I want to question your purpose today. Are you satisfied with your achievements, have you set your goals and accomplished them? If so the next question is, have you given back to fulfill the needs that are in our society? There are people who are in need of support, training and development. The less fortunate, the down and out and orphanages are in need of direction and assistance. After you achieve your personal goals, dreams and desires, don't let that be the only reason you exist. Reach deep and touch your soul’s purpose that will change lives forever.

The holiday season is a time of reflection, it’s not just a time to give material things but also to ask yourself, “have I given myself to service my true purpose that I was created for?” I’m not saying to just go out and help everybody that's in need. There are certain people called to do certain works. What I'm saying is that there's a deeper meaning in you. After all, you were appointed and called to serve mankind in a deeper, more meaningful way than just resources and money. Spend time showing random acts of kindness, listening, sharing your experiences and most of all showing that you care to others who may walk the earth everyday, feeling unfulfilled.

Here are some empowerment tips for you to think about:

1. Remember, it's not always about you it's about your purpose.

2. True service comes from within.

3. Charity starts at home and then it spreads abroad.

4. Once you have achieved, give back.

5. People don't care how much you know until they see how much you care.

6. You are blessed so that you can be a blessing.