What’s Your Purpose?

As Mark Twain said, the two best days of your life are the day you were born and the day you find out why.

But, where do you go to find your “why” – your purpose?

According to celebrated Greek philosopher Aristotle, where one’s distinctive talents intersect with the needs of the world, therein lays your vocation or calling.

A calling is bigger than a career. When you discover your purpose, you discover why you’re here and how you can improve the world.

This process has helped Fortune 500 companies find their purpose, and it works for individuals too.

Mahatma Gandhi’s purpose was “to wipe every tear from every eye.”

What’s yours?

It’s your own story; it’s a call to action. It is your shout out to the world; it’s what makes you come alive.

The assignment: Ask five important people who knew you growing up what you liked to do most. What would you do if you couldn’t fail – if you had $25 million in the bank? Write it down.

If the answer gives you goose bumps – you’re onto something.

Walk away; let your thoughts marinate. The office is often the least stimulating place to think, so go outside the box, literally. Try the car, your yoga class, church, the shower. That’s where you’ll find your “aha!” moment.

Then, don’t just write it down. Do it and be the force you were created to be.

Where do your gifts intersect with the world’s needs – what’s calling you?

Bonus PINK Link: Find out how one woman had courage to do what she loves.

PINK Minute Mentor: What’s the sandwich generation’s biggest concern? Lauren Marshall, SunTrust Investment Services, Inc., explains in PINK’s Minute Mentor segment.

By Joey Reiman

Joey is the author of The Story of Purpose and CEO of BrightHouse, a global marketing consultancy.

“Breathe. Let go. And remind yourself that this very moment is the only one you know you have for sure.” Oprah Winfrey