Life on Purpose: 15 Questions to Discover Your Personal Mission

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Photo by Thomas Hawk

I believe that we were all sent here for a reason and that we all have significance in the world. I genuinely feel that we are all blessed with unique gifts. The expression of our gifts contributes to a cause greater than ourselves.

First, a personal story

Last year, I was running at full speed; chasing after my dream of money and ‘success’. However, I had forgotten why I was running. Luckily, I met Jim (not his real name). Jim had achieved all the financial goals I was reaching for. He had financial independence, several successful businesses, homes in multiple countries, and the luxury to afford the finest things money could buy. Through hard work, persistence and sheer action; he had made it! But, Jim was not happy. He did not have the free time to enjoy his wealth. He wanted a family. He wanted peace. He wanted to live his life… but he was not able to. He had too many responsibilities, too much to lose, and too many things to protect. He had spent years building his castle, and now that it is complete, he is spending his time keeping it from eroding.

Getting to know Jim was a life altering and eye opening experience. His words snapped me out of my state of ‘unconsciousness’. It became clear to me that, “I did not want to spend the next 10 years chasing after money, only to find that I’ll be back at the same place I am at today; emotionally, mentally, and spiritually”. My ‘chase’ came to a screeching halt, everything was put on hold, and I spent the next two months re-evaluating my life and purpose.


These questions were running through my mind:

What am I chasing after? Why am I chasing it? What is my purpose? Why was I put here?

While reading “E-Myth: Why Most Small Businesses Don’t Work“, I found myself in tears during the chapter on finding purpose. In that chapter, Michael Gerber asks the readers to do a visualization exercise. Through his guidance, he instructs you to vividly picture the day of your funeral. What do you want your eulogy to consist of? What would your lifetime achievements be? What would matter the most at the end of your life? Is it what you are doing right NOW?

I started writing. It began by listing all the things that are most important to me. I wrote down all the things I wanted to do. I re-visited my personal mission statement. I decided that whatever venture I commit to must align with my personal mission, my values and my goals. For every new opportunity that comes along, I would ask myself how it aligns with my goals. Regardless of how much money I could acquire, if the venture did not align with where I wanted to be, then I would not pursue it. Here is my personal mission statement:

Here are some of my values and goals:

  • What matters most is my connection with myself, being present and feeling blissful.
  • What I value most is having meaningful relationships with people. Being able to connect with people on deep levels.
  • I plan to be financially independent, and have control of my time and location. I plan to work only on projects and causes that I connect with. I plan to acquire my finances without violating my values, goals and personal mission.
  • I plan to travel and live in different parts of the world. Experiencing different cultures, documenting them in photographs and sharing them with others.
  • I will buy my mom a house in Vancouver with a ravine in the backyard. That’s a dream of hers and I’d like to fulfill it.
  • Having a family is important to me. I desire a deep, loving relationship with my spouse.
  • To live everyday fully as if it was my last.

15 Questions to Discover Your Life Purpose

The following are a list of questions that can assist you in discovering your purpose. They are meant as a guide to help you get into a frame of mind that will be conducive to defining your personal mission.

Simple Instructions:

  • Take out a few sheets of loose paper and a pen.
  • Find a place where you will not be interrupted. Turn off your cell phone.
  • Write the answers to each question down. Write the first thing that pops into your head. Write without editing. Use point form. It’s important to write out your answers rather than just thinking about them.
  • Write quickly. Give yourself less than 60 seconds a question. Preferably less than 30 seconds.
  • Be honest. Nobody will read it. It’s important to write without editing.
  • Enjoy the moment and smile as you write.

15 Questions:

1. What makes you smile? (Activities, people, events, hobbies, projects, etc.)

2. What are your favorite things to do in the past? What about now?

3. What activities make you lose track of time?

4. What makes you feel great about yourself?

5. Who inspires you most? (Anyone you know or do not know. Family, friends, authors, artists, leaders, etc.) Which qualities inspire you, in each person?

6. What are you naturally good at? (Skills, abilities, gifts etc.)

7. What do people typically ask you for help in?

8. If you had to teach something, what would you teach?

9. What would you regret not fully doing, being or having in your life?




10. You are now 90 years old, sitting on a rocking chair outside your porch; you can feel the spring breeze gently brushing against your face. You are blissful and happy, and are pleased with the wonderful life you’ve been blessed with. Looking back at your life and all that you’ve achieved and acquired, all the relationships you’ve developed; what matters to you most? List them out.

11. What are your deepest values?
Select 3 to 6 (See list of words to help you | list in pdf) and prioritize the words in order of importance to you.

12. What were some challenges, difficulties and hardships you’ve overcome or are in the process of overcoming? How did you do it?

13. What causes do you strongly believe in? Connect with?

14. If you could get a message across to a large group of people. Who would those people be? What would your message be?

15. Given your talents, passions and values. How could you use these resources to serve, to help, to contribute? ( to people, beings, causes, organization, environment, planet, etc.)


Putting it all together: Creating Your Personal Mission Statement


“Writing or reviewing a mission statement changes you because it forces you to think through your priorities deeply, carefully, and to align your behaviour with your beliefs”

– Stephen Covey, ‘7 Habits of Highly Effective People’

A personal mission consists of 3 parts:

  • What do I want to do?
  • Who do I want to help?
  • What is the result? What value will I create?

Steps to Creating Your Personal Mission Statement:

1. Do the exercise with the 15 questions above as quickly as you can.

2. List out actions words you connect with.

a. Example: educate, accomplish, empower, encourage, improve, help, give, guide, inspire, integrate, master, motivate, nurture, organize, produce, promote, travel, spread, share, satisfy, understand, teach, write, etc.

3. Based on your answers to the 15 questions. List everything and everyone that you believe you can help.

a. Example: People, creatures, organizations, causes, groups, environment, etc.

4. Identify your end goal. How will the ‘who’ from your above answer benefit from what you ‘do’?

5. Combine steps 2-4 into a sentence, or 2-3 sentences.

What is your purpose? What is your mission? We’d love to hear about your goals and aspirations. Please share with a comment!

If you enjoyed this article, please share it on StumbleUpon, vote for it on Digg or bookmark it on del.icio.us. I appreciate your support. :)


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123 Responses (87 Comments, 36 Trackbacks ):

Comments

  1. William Mize

    Nov 07 07, 6:46 am UTC

    1

    A GREAT entry, Tina. Absolutely smashing. As a mystery writer, I sometimes tend to think that my purpose involves sitting in my room, writing my books, but I always need to remind myself that the higher purpose always, always, always involves somehow serving others. Helping others. Entertaining, enlightening and perhaps educating others.

    It’s always about other people.

  2. Tina Su

    Nov 07 07, 8:56 am UTC

    2

    Thanks Bill! Great to hear from ya. :)

  3. Peter

    Nov 07 07, 9:05 am UTC

    3

    Hi Tina,

    Thanks for a very enjoyable article. Writing a personal mission statement was an exercise I did at the start of this year and it has been life changing.

    Peter

  4. Rahul

    Nov 07 07, 9:13 am UTC

    4

    Awesome post Tina!

  5. Jason

    Nov 07 07, 10:03 am UTC

    5

    Very nice… I wrote an article a while back to help people find their purpose, but my technique was a bit simpler, intended to get the surface consciousness out of the way and get down to the bigger part of you that’s down a bit deeper, the part that actually knows what your purpose is.

    If you’d like to read it, you can find it at
    Find Your Calling

  6. Andrea Hess | Empowered Soul

    Nov 07 07, 10:14 am UTC

    6

    Very nice article, Tina. I have a resource on my site that’s an audio visualization that is a different path to the same answers … it’s at http://www.EmpoweredSoul.com/freemini.htm. Feel free to check it out, I think you’d like it.

    Blessings,
    Andrea

  7. ZenChef

    Nov 07 07, 10:17 am UTC

    7

    Very inspiring Tina. Thank you!

    I like your style, it’s always very precise and clear. I bet it reflects perfectly your personnality.

    I am certain you will be very succesfull in life and achieve all of your goals and i am following your advices to achieve mines.
    I know for a fact that this stuff works and that everyone has the ability to create the life of their dreams, it’s just a question of learning, believing and practicing. We all get lost sometimes in everyday problems but you are here to offer a fresh reminder that we should always seek and follow our higher purpose. It’s a noble cause.

  8. Gil

    Nov 07 07, 10:36 am UTC

    8

    WOW Tina. This article is probably one of the best ones I’ve read not only from you but any topics that deal with living a purposeful life. I can see it going all the way up in Diggs Top 10 list shortly. It’s well planned, amply researched, and written so perfectly. As with all your articles, I tend to find myself engrossed on my reading partly because of the great personal stories you tell. I feel the strong connection. That reminds me of something — I never told you my real name was “Jim”. How did you know? : )

  9. Roger von Oech

    Nov 07 07, 11:04 am UTC

    9

    Here are some Pithy Words:

    Thoughtful insights. I’m glad I stopped by. Best wishes to you and your many readers!

  10. Scott McArthur

    Nov 07 07, 4:12 pm UTC

    10

    I do a couple of little things with my clients when I’m getting them to “think”. I ask them to write themselves a referance (employment recommendation) and to write their own obituary! Works well if you talk them through the Nobel story as part of the session.

    Great blog!

  11. Robyn

    Nov 07 07, 4:43 pm UTC

    11

    Hi Tina, I so agree that the vision we want to see helps us consider what life is all about. I really enjoy the work I do now, which I could not do when younger and raising a family. There are times for all things!

  12. Shirley

    Nov 07 07, 5:21 pm UTC

    12

    Thanks Tina. I love the reminder about the rich guy with no time to enjoy life.

    Also, although I didn’t know it when I started them, I think my blogs are representative of my goals. I’ve always known I wanted to add more happiness, fun and laughter into the world (we have way too many cynics out there), I just didn’t realize this could be my mission in life.

    Thanks for letting me take a second look at myself and my goals.

  13. Raymond

    Nov 07 07, 5:53 pm UTC

    13

    Hi Tina,

    That’s the ultimate 15 questions I want to answer today. :)

    Thank you for sharing and visit my blog. I appreciate that. ;)

  14. Lawrence Cheok

    Nov 07 07, 10:41 pm UTC

    14

    Hi Tina,

    This is a very comprehensive guide to forming a purpose and mission statement.

    It is really helpful to anyone who comes across this article.

    Kudos to you!

  15. Miracle

    Nov 08 07, 5:11 am UTC

    15

    I wrote out a personal mission mantra a few months ago. It was an Guy Kawasaki take on Stephen Covey’s idea. What I found to be useful is to create a business card with the statement on there and it keep it with you. I added a neat photo to help me visualize and remember it.

  16. Sam Chan

    Nov 08 07, 6:03 am UTC

    16

    Hi Tina,
    Thanks for sharing this great post with powerful questions for one to ponder! Indeed, it is so much blessed to know our personal mission early in the life.

    “It is not what we get. But who we become, what we contribute… that gives meaning to our lives.” – Anthony Robbins

    Blessings
    Let’s Acquire Wisdom and Live with Passion

  17. K Stone

    Nov 08 07, 7:17 am UTC

    17

    This is awesome! My mission is to love my family both when it’s easy and when it is challenging, to be the best parent to my son, and to help others by teaching what I learn as I live my life.

    Thanks! I’m going to do this exercise!

  18. Jacklyn Ker

    Nov 08 07, 10:35 am UTC

    18

    What a great post Tina! The quote by Sam Chan from Anthony Robbins – “It is not what we get. But who we become, what we contribute… that gives meaning to our lives.”- is the very one that helps me sets my mission 8 years ago. I see my life purpose then, from why I have to experience life in such a different way. God has a purpose for me! And so does He for everyone..

    “To Live, To Love, To Learn & To leave a Legacy..” ~ Stephen Covey

    Cheers!

  19. therapydoc

    Nov 08 07, 11:13 am UTC

    19

    Money’s nice, pays the bills. But it’s definitely not the key to happiness.

  20. Secret Simon

    Nov 08 07, 5:00 pm UTC

    20

    I’m impressed with this article and stumbled it. One thing though: I use the Firefox browser at 800 x 600 and when I clicked on this post, the left edge of the text was missing. I had to alter my screen resolution to read it. It might be worth you checking this out.

  21. surjit

    Nov 08 07, 6:15 pm UTC

    21

    Hi Tina,
    Very inspiring and profound post.Thanks for sharing.
    You have a great blog.
    My best wishes.

  22. Steve Roesler

    Nov 08 07, 8:54 pm UTC

    22

    Tina,

    The eulogy activity is always a wonderful way to bring people face-to-face with the reality of their lives.

    Keep up the fine work with the blog; it’s a terrific contribution to the achievement of your stated Purpose.

  23. TRCoach

    Nov 09 07, 6:18 pm UTC

    23

    Hi Tina, I love your blog and this post is thought provoking. Great goals, especially
    “To live everyday fully as if it was my last.”
    Tom

  24. Mandy

    Nov 12 07, 4:49 pm UTC

    24

    You asked for some feedback, so here you go…

    Thank you for this simple, yet thought provoking exercise. I’ve thought about some of these ideas before. Sitting down and writing them out was key, because by seeing them I could pull them all together. I now have a mission statement and a better idea of where I’m going.

  25. Jolly Green Girl

    Nov 12 07, 9:54 pm UTC

    25

    excellent post.. reminds me of the things that I value in my life. Thanks for the reminder

  26. Ivan

    Nov 15 07, 12:42 am UTC

    26

    Very good article! It motivates me to think about my mission even though I already wrote one. But live is always changing and perhaps I have to adjust my mission too.

    Ivan
    http://www.blatternet.ch

  27. Peter

    Nov 15 07, 8:35 am UTC

    27

    Do you have any idea how much fear does this kind of suggestions stir inside a person?

    I’ve tried suggesting to people an exercise like this one, only simpler, the one found on Brian Kim’s blog.
    You list Skills and Interests and then try to find an answer to the question “What would I love to do on a daily basis utilizing both my skills and interests that will add significant value to people? ”

    Not one of the many people I suggested this exercise to did it. None of them told me their answer to this question.

    The reason for this, in my opinion, is FEAR.

    People fear this kind of exercises.
    They fear the kind of change it could bring.

  28. Bradley C Hughes

    Nov 15 07, 5:17 pm UTC

    28

    Hi Tina,

    Bradley from Victory Darwin’s 4HWW Ning group here.

    Very glad to have the benefit of your fantastic effort in summarising, simplifying and presenting these powerful tools of self-discovery.

    I did the eulogy visualisation exercise as part of a two day seminar I attended about a month ago.

    It is an extremely powerful, emotive experience, and as the previous poster said it can drive up a lot of fear.

    This exercise was on the morning of the second day, where we had already spent much of the first day on exploring, driving up our fears and shining the gentle warm light of loving kindness on them to cause those fears to disappear.

    For anyone contemplating undertaking this exercise, if you think you have unresolved fears in the way of getting to the source of yourself and knowing exactly who you want to be for yourself, I can only suggest you do the fear removal healing work with someone you trust to empower you in that, before you undertake this kind of exercise.

    So, who exactly am I, as per the testimony of those at my future imagined eulogy?

    I am a wise mentor, a masterful communicator, and a powerful loving contribution to all the people in my life.

    happy regards,

    Bradley C Hughes

  29. Colleen

    Nov 16 07, 5:12 am UTC

    29

    Great article Tina!
    Your sharing of your own personal experiences is heartwarming, and helpful. This guide has prompted me to write my own long delayed ‘Mission Statement’…thanks again for sharing!

  30. grace

    Nov 17 07, 3:31 pm UTC

    30

    I ”stumbled” on you on Digg. I do like the way you put this together and included your personal journey. I will visit your site again. Truly well written blogs with consistent value are a rarity. I would really enjoy reading some of your previous posts, especially how to let go of unfulfilling relationships. Kudos Tina.

  31. Jorge

    Nov 22 07, 9:32 pm UTC

    31

    Tina,

    thank you so much for posting this. I’ve done this myself and yes it puts things into perspective as to how you go about pursuing your dreams/goals in life. I did my mission statement around 8 months ago after reading The Leadership Challenge and later True North which is also about leadership. I encourage people to read both these books as we are all leaders in one way or another as well something more to add to your post. You’re a true leader

    “We lead from the essence of who we are as a person.”

  32. jun

    Dec 11 07, 6:11 pm UTC

    32

    Hi Tina,

    I was researching for a workshop I’ll be conducting and google’d life purpose. A good thing your site is in the first page on the search results.

    This is a great help for me, personally and for the workshop. Though I’ve made my own life purpose exercise two years ago, I’ll be re-doing it with your help.

    Great insights!

    A Merry Christmas to you and yours.

  33. T. Dorsey

    Dec 16 07, 7:40 pm UTC

    33

    I agree that creating a mission statement is an important step in living your life purpose. The mission statement helps clarify what your right livelihood is and it serves as a beacon of light to help you stay true to you life’s path.

  34. Patricia - Spiritual Journey Of A Lightworker

    Dec 31 07, 1:32 pm UTC

    34

    Tina, thanks for the questions and story. I printed out your article. When I have some free time, I will definitely sit down and write out my answers to those questions. Thanks for sharing them.

  35. Steve Nguyen

    Jan 11 08, 7:22 pm UTC

    35

    Tina: As I’m browsing your blog, I’m finding some nice gems. This one in particular is very well thought out. I look forward to using your steps to redo my mission statement.

  36. ben

    Feb 01 08, 2:19 pm UTC

    36

    And now imagine reading this article as a sort of pessimistic nihilist. Kind of depressing, really.

    Sorry, I understand that a lot of thought and work have gone into this.. I’m sure a lot of people will enjoy the read, but though..
    What am I trying to say anyway?

    I’m sorry. never mind.

    (I am enjoying reading other stuff on your blog right now though – nice)

  37. Vica

    Feb 05 08, 10:32 am UTC

    37

    This is something to get back to. I don’t think this could be done in afternoon, but after some given thoughts… anyway, it’s a really good way to start. Thanks for sharing.

  38. jd

    Feb 14 08, 12:16 am UTC

    38

    Hey Tina –

    Nice write up and great integration of related and relevant sources.

    I think clarity of personal missions can very a great deal on based on where you are in the stack of Maslow’s hierarchy of needs.

    For me, my mission is pretty simple — exponentially improve the quality of life for the underdogs.

    Here’s a related post on finding what you really want that you might enjoy — http://thebookshare.blogspot.com/2007/11/how-to-figure-out-what-you-really-want.html

  39. Emma

    Feb 18 08, 3:37 pm UTC

    39

    Thank you, this article is just what I needed. Several changes have occurred in my life that I have yet to analyze. After doing the questions, I realize that my deepest joy in life is in connecting with others. I could happily spend the rest of my life on the back of a horse or in a tango embrace, communicating in a language without words. Right now I am studying for a loveless job to finance my passions and to provide for my family, but these revelations have made my question my career choice – is there something I can do that allows me to connect to others without pretense?

  40. Bobby

    Mar 03 08, 9:16 pm UTC

    40

    Tina – This is a neat method and I can see how others can benefit from it. However, it seems to assume that I have already found something that I am passionate about. I wrote down answers to the questions; the first things that popped into my mind. When I went to the 4th step of creating my mission statement, it says, “Identify your end goal.” I drew a blank. I reviewed my answers and found that none of them are anything that I would consider to be my end goal. There was nothing that I was passionate enough about to consider putting into my life’s mission statement. Any suggestions? Thanks!!

  41. Qleyo

    Mar 12 08, 4:36 pm UTC

    41

    Hi Tina, great article!

    I answered all the questions and my repetitive phrases were – arts, design industry, smart, high esteem, successful, empower people, learn french fluently, travel, music, play the piano up to grade 8, love, ideas, simple.

    All together a made a personal statement, which seems to have been the same for the last 4 – 5 years :) quite happy

  42. Peter John Stubbs

    May 15 08, 7:52 am UTC

    42

    15 May 2008

    Am now 59 years of age, am very laid-back, find it easy to chill-out, I live a fairly simple life enjoying peace, contentment, nature, animals, music.

    Strongly believe in being as courteous as much as possible, communicative, respectful.

    Do not put much importance in money,(so many people are obsessed with money) unlike many people am not obsessed with materialism, possessions, status.

    I am me, I am myself, am genuine, am a good caring, altruistic, selfless, very wise human being.

    Would love to hear from others directly via “e-mail”, please show my “e-mail address” if possible.

    Sincerely

    Peter

    Bournemouth
    Dorset (County)
    UK

    ****************************

    Peter’s Email: peter.stubbs3@virgin.net

  43. Zeenat

    May 19 08, 12:49 am UTC

    43

    What if.. I know what it is I want to really do, have known so all my life, but don’t know how to go about doing it. Or maybe I feel I don’t have enough resources like money, etc. to actually fulfill my personal mission. What then. Your article is very helpful, the self-questionnaire really nice, but I get stuck in trying to figure out how to go about doing it.

  44. Gyuri

    Jun 02 08, 3:49 pm UTC

    44

    Tina,
    Great article, but I wanted to point out that the word list links for Q.11 are not working.

  45. christy

    Jun 27 08, 9:44 am UTC

    45

    This is my personal mission statement:

    Integrate my values into every fabrics of my life. Grow and love life to the fullest. Free animals and humans from sufferings by changing people’s doctrine beliefs and attitude towards veganism.

  46. Didac

    Jul 31 08, 4:19 am UTC

    46

    Thank you for sharing this with everyone, it has enlighten me.

  47. Augustine.

    Aug 15 08, 3:48 pm UTC

    47

    Thank you for this. Really. I didn’t fully integrate my final “statement” into a statement, but in a nutshell:

    >> Allow the value of my life extend beyond my accomplishments, what I’ve done, who I touched, who I affected, etc. Life isn’t about the product, it’s about the process.

    >> Be the embodiment of freedom. Arms and eyes wide open.

    >> Give respect to those who deserve it and fight to no end to tear those who don’t from their positions of power.

    >> Be a home to those who need it most. (“Teach a man to fish, and you’ve fed him for life.”)

  48. dave

    Aug 30 08, 12:09 pm UTC

    48

    My goal is to simply be free to do my art however I wish, and give my attention to a future soulmate who will understand and grow with me. I also wish to help whoever I meet along the way so that they have a shoulder to cry on.

    This post was helpful to me, because I was feeling confused for most of my life. Thank you =)

  49. genie

    Sep 02 08, 9:50 pm UTC

    49

    I felt lost for a long time, im a 24 yr old woman, married and living in the states. I left my home when I was 19 (the netherlands). since I finished college i lost my spirit and passion in general about live. and side tracked for the longest. Till now i feel miserable not knowing what to do with my life. theres something missing and i realised by doing this ,that i need to be and feel free I have alot of love in me and i need to express it in anyway. when I finished this I felt happy and warm again,just the way I felt when I was 19. My purpose is to love life to the fullest ..to feel love and spread love, to think with your heart not with your head,trust me you’ll end up being something/somebody else that is not the true you, and i made that mistake….

    thanks alot ….

  50. Nicholas Powiull

    Nov 02 08, 5:31 am UTC

    50

    I love how conscious you are Tina!

    The way I define the term passion is something in which I enjoy doing, something I can do all day long and continuously find joyfulness from it. Yet it is not the act of doing it that allows me to find joy in it because just thinking about it can produce feelings of joy.

    You are an significant being in the universal scheme of purpose and you have a important task to provide exceptional value of abundance to existence. Living your passion allows you to unfold this process of progressive success. This unfolding leads you to your center. The center of the essence in life, that aligns you to the perfect circumstances.

    Think of yourself as a piece of thread in a tapestry, you can not see the pattern you help to create, the bright color you add to the whole, your place within the system, but the tapestry would not be the same without you. In fact, the tapestry would not hold together without you. It would simply unfold the whole tapestry as you pull on the thread of who you are. You have something within you that holds everything together, by adding something to this universe that keeps it whole. You may not see what it is right now, but you may never see it if you do not live your purpose through the passion you were born with.

  51. Will

    Dec 01 08, 6:29 pm UTC

    51

    Hey Tina. I had been avoiding doing this exercise because I was scared… scared of potentially not having answers, but also scared of what I might uncover.

    To my surprise, the answers came freely and easily.

    Here is my mission statement. It’s something that had been dancing around for a long time in my mind, but that I had never articulated to myself. It also assembled quite readily from the questions:

    “To inspire and inform everyone, through writing and speaking, that they may find loving, happy, and fulfilling lives by embracing the ideals of honesty and courage.”

    That’s version one. I have to deal with my own fear first, but having this here and reading it every morning will go a long way towards helping me move forward.

    You have my gratitude!

  52. JH

    Dec 13 08, 8:23 am UTC

    52

    Another great article worthy of reading and putting to practice. Thank you kindly for such original content.

  53. Rick Curry

    Dec 17 08, 1:41 pm UTC

    53

    I fell onto your blog today, what a great Christmas present for me! Although I have read only a few of your articles Tina, this one speaks loudly to me as I work with people assisting them in finding their life purpose. Much of what you share here is in direct alignment in the work that I’ve been doing.

    I so appreciate your clarity, and the volume of your sharing. You are truly a generous person and I totally get your being in service to your community.

    In Gratitude,
    Rick Curry, CPC CDCGL

  54. Alfredo

    Dec 19 08, 6:57 am UTC

    54

    You made me happy today, Tina. Thank-YOU!

  55. Marco Aurelio

    Dec 29 08, 11:05 am UTC

    55

    I am reading the comments and they are all showing gratitude for what you write. I did not find one, only one, with displeasure. That´s very disturbing. Or they are block ?
    Where is the reference when everyone agrees ?

    Your 15 questions are useless and are the same that we hear year in, year out. Nothing new. Appears that people are so lost that they want to hear anything from anyone. Even this thing.

    The realm are in front. Just look. You do not need no one to tell you what to do, what to hear or what to see. You can do all that, alone. Be free to think and to act, and to find.
    And finally, run from the self proclaimed ” divine instructors”.
    Thank you.

  56. Sandrine

    Jan 05 09, 4:52 pm UTC

    56

    Hi everyone ,
    i really love the exercises of the 15 questions on life purposes. i have been working and chasing the fashion dream since i was 17 years old.
    Of course they is no need to say that it was all that glitter that attracted me for years,closing my eyes on all the real misery,slavery,and the extreme destructive world that fashion actually offer without no pity.
    after doing the 15 question, i realise that my true aspiration are the health ,growth,and happiness of children. as a child my deepest dream was to help stop the cruelty that some children have to endure.
    being a violated child myself, i know how difficult it is to go through life with open scares that doesn’t seems to heal and your head screaming fo help.
    i am now 35 years old still trying to understand WHY and HOW, some parents find the energy to do that much damage to a small child.
    I am now a mum, of 3 beautiful girls, but unfortunately two of them, my twins girls has died. my eldest daughter is the only one left. An absolute heart break .

    This article made me realise that my true happiness is not so much the money as i though. BUT money to be able to somehow fund a house where i could welcome children and give them the love , the support, the hope… help them to develop they’re abilities. But most of all prove them that they matter to this world and to me.

    This is my deepest which. thanks to the editor of this article. ;-).

    Sandrine, from Paris.

  57. CK Reyes

    Jan 21 09, 1:15 pm UTC

    57

    My purpose is to have a deep and meaningful connection with the Divine empowering people to experience self-love and compassion that motivates the conscious productive engagement of one’s Life Purpose resulting in Peace on Earth!

    Wow! The more I say this the more real it becomes for me…. Thank you for the opportunity. I’d say this was my mission statement also…

  58. Johannes

    Feb 03 09, 12:26 pm UTC

    58

    My purpose is to have the mastery of life. My mission is to be the best (man, lover, friend, father, guitar player etc.) and to show people that it is possible, to give everybody unconditional love, to motivate them with my example and to take people on the adventure of their life so they realize their potential.

    **********************
    REPLY

    Wow, Johannes. Thank you for sharing! That’s beautiful!

  59. Sam

    Feb 21 09, 1:13 pm UTC

    59

    mmmm… done the questions …but i’m a bit stuck putting together the mission statement … can anyone assist ?

    2. List out actions words you connect with. – improve, co-ordinate, organize, produce, exercise, nurture, care, support, cater

    3. drug and alcohol clients, people who need to develop life structure / discipline, clients who need recruitment , job seeking candidates

    4. Recruitment clients support, structure, process
    job seeking candidates – support, structure, process
    Drug and alcohol – exercise, nurture, structure, support
    Need life discipline – exercise, nurture, structure, support

  60. levan

    Mar 04 09, 12:50 am UTC

    60

    what is the case if i don’t have the answers of 90% of these questions?

  61. Rick Curry

    Mar 07 09, 5:00 am UTC

    61

    Levan,
    If you cannot answer the questions, I suggest that you work with a coach who has been trained to help people find their purpose. I am such a coach and I know several others. If you wish to have more info about this (and no sales talk, just answers to your questions, I promise) feel free to contact me at CoachRickCPC@Yahoo.com. Additionally, you can go to Tim Kelley’s web site at http://www.knowyourpurpose.com/store/.

    I trust this is helpful for you.

    Sincerely,
    Rick Curry

  62. Jonathan | EnlightenYourDay.com

    Mar 16 09, 7:15 pm UTC

    62

    Fantastic post! The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho is the bible when it comes to discovering your mission in life. Cheers

  63. Ashlie

    May 02 09, 7:26 pm UTC

    63

    The mission statement builder has moved, here’s a working link:
    http://www.franklincovey.com.au/library-resources/mission-statement-builder.aspx

    Hope this helps!

  64. Marissa

    May 13 09, 12:02 pm UTC

    64

    In today’s world, living your life the way you desire is usually not an option, especially if you’re doing it alone.

    Answering that list of questions, may give you an idea of what you want.
    But is what you want achievable ?
    Can you reach it? can you touch it? Or do you have to work 90% of your life to get there.

    Life is short, and invisioning this clause can be difficult:
    10. You are now 90 years old, sitting on a rocking chair outside your porch; you can feel the spring breeze gently brushing against your face. You are blissful and happy, and are pleased with the wonderful life you’ve been blessed with. Looking back at your life and all that you’ve achieved and acquired, all the relationships you’ve developed; what matters to you most? List them out.

    You should look at your life in different periods of time
    When you’re 20, 30… 40… You may not necessarily reach 90
    but you’ll know what you achieved and acquired in each decade to be able to determine what you want to look forward to.

    You might also ask yourself – What do i leave behind when i’m gone?
    When the day comes and i no longer exist in this world?

  65. Rick Curry

    May 17 09, 10:45 am UTC

    65

    Marissa,
    Your post ends with, “You might also ask yourself – What do i leave behind when i’m gone? When the day comes and i no longer exist in this world?” This is exactly what the item you bring up is wanting to create. Who cares if we will or will not reach 90 — that is a destination. And it would be great to reach 90, especially if we are healthy and still active. There are more and more people that are doing that so it is becoming more the norm than not.

    If we are to live our life on purpose, the age does not matter as our purpose will be the same throughout our life. Our mission is one of the ways in which we will carry our purpose out into the world and it is possible that we might have a different mission at 40 than we will at 60 or even 45. That depends upon what our purpose is.

    For those that wish to dig deeper into finding their purpose, a new book was recently release that offers methods to assist one in finding their real life purpose. by Tim Kelley. I highly recommend it. I have worked with Tim and his methods work. I know it first hand. Check it out and let me know what you think.

    Be excellent!
    Rick Curry

    * edited by tina at 8pm 5/17/09 to fix link

  66. Gaby

    Jul 14 09, 12:04 am UTC

    66

    I believe my goal in life is to share all my experiences to those who believe that they have never accomplished anything in life, and to make them understand that even if they feel that way they have accomplished a lot. I want to make people value their life and other peoples lives and value every living thing (animals, insects, environment etc). To show them that not very bad thing that happens to us is bad, that is just a lesson to be learned that will make us stronger and wiser, that failure is not an impediment and that even if we fail we learn to be successful. Failing once, or twice or as many times doesn’t mean we cant accomplish or get what with want if we want it or hope for it with out heart. That we should never give up hope, because hope is what keeps us moving, living and loving. That we should learn from our experiences to help others and to be a better person everyday. That is in everyone of us to help one and other and the world so we can all live together in peace no matter who we are, where we come from what we look like, what color we are. What I personally believe is important is to learn to love and with that love help others and teach them to love as well. What would be of us if there was no love? We will have no hope, no purpose, we would be empty. We were created out of love, and we should be able to share it.

    “Things don’t go wrong and break your heart so you can become bitter and give up. They happen to break you down and build you up so you can be all that you were intended to be” – Charles “Tremendous” Jones
    “Every adversity, every failure, every heartache carries with it the seed of an equal or greater benefit.” – Napoleon Hill

    Enjoy life to the fullest, and help others enjoy life too, we just live once and we all have the right to be happy!

  67. Michelle Brown

    Sep 05 09, 3:29 am UTC

    67

    Wow! What a great exercise to clarify thoughts and feelings about who we are and what we want to do with it!

    Many, many thanks!

  68. Matt C

    Sep 11 09, 6:22 pm UTC

    68

    I followed what you said to do. Thank you very much. My mission statement is “Help everyone you can a be a stranger to no man.

  69. Rick Curry

    Sep 13 09, 5:12 pm UTC

    69

    Matt,
    In reference to Tim Kelley’s work, purpose is made up of three aspects; essence (which describes how you show up in the world and what people sense from you when they are around you), blessing (what you DO when you are living “on purpose”), and mission (how your purpose is manifested into the world). Mission is a one time thing, once it is done a new mission comes into being. What you are describing is blessing.

    Get Tim’s book (or contact me) for me info and clarity around this.

    Be Excellent!
    Rick

  70. merlynn

    Sep 25 09, 12:41 am UTC

    70

    Your article is great! My purpose is to use my knowledge, skills, determination and committment to empower, encourage, inspire, support and uplift others to live a life of purpose, freedom, joy and safety.

  71. aprces

    Oct 05 09, 9:55 pm UTC

    71

    Where’s the 15 questions come from?

    I think the real benefit I’ve gotten is not achieve something when finishing them,it seem like a puff of breath which take me into a mild and placid place

    15 nice questions to make inquiries for our souls,thanx!

  72. Calvin&Hobbes

    Oct 17 09, 6:21 pm UTC

    72

    I was very pleased to have quite literally stumbled into this blog by mistake… or was it really a mistake at all..? Anyway, I think on some level I’ve always known who I am and what my true purpose is, but only recently discovered that. It’s quite simple and I don’t mind sharing with you.

    I have been volunteering as an EMT with my Virginia Beach rescue squad for only a few months now. I am still kind of new to it. I’m learning new things on every shift. It is very fulfilling and I love it. I’m in it for life now, but I have found that my TRUE purpose is to volunteer my time @ CHKD (Children’s Hospital of the King’s Daughter’s) as a Child Life volunteer. After answering some really good questions and digging into myself a little deeper than I have ever done before, I found that I have so many wonderful gifts and talents to share that will make a great impact in a child’s life.. a child who needs a friend. It warms my heart just thinking about it now.. The kingdom of heaven really does belong to the children and god bless them.

    Thank you very much for posting this blog. It’s a really good thing you’ve got here and I hope everyone finds their “mission”. God bless you!

  73. Rogue

    Dec 17 09, 8:28 am UTC

    73

    Hi Tina-I really appreciate you sharing your wisdom with me. I must admit that I have been lost for 20 years and this article has realigned my soul. In my 36 years on this earth no truth has rung truer then your words. I was given lemons by God and you have taught me to make lemonaide. My life has been full of tragedies…the stories I can tell you will never believe…but I keep trucking. From being a teenaged parent to graduting from college with a BFA and all doing it while dodging bullets in Chicago’s notorious Humboldt Park. You go girl!

  74. Leila (CK) Reyes

    Dec 17 09, 11:43 am UTC

    74

    I did the exercise you suggested, and I noticed a very powerful theme in my answers. I am living my mission, but I’m ready to kick it up a notch! I am aware that I can share an a larger scale. I can have a bigger impact on the world and I say YES!

    Thanks, for the reminder and gentle nudge to reach for the ceiling!

    My purpose is to recognize, honor, and celebrate the sacredness of everyone I meet to create a world free of shame, empowering people to embrace their own divinity and share their most authentic expression with the world!

    **************
    REPLY:

    Wow, that’s really beautiful. Thank you for sharing your purpose with us, it will inspire many.

    Love,
    Tina

  75. Rogue

    Dec 17 09, 12:37 pm UTC

    75

    Anyone interested in helping me get published? I am an aspiring, Latina, writer from Chicago’s Humboldt Park area. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

  76. Irene

    Dec 20 09, 8:56 pm UTC

    76

    Thank you! Very nice and helpful. I’ve asked myself questions before about my purpose but there were a few here that I never thought of. Some of the questions brought me some more clarity on what some of my challenges are, while at the same time helping me realize that things may not be as hard as I perceive them. So if I can let go of the perception that my challenges may be a struggle, then I can let go of the struggle and begin to learn in greater grace.
    Blessings,
    Irene

  77. Mary

    Jan 01 10, 6:41 am UTC

    77

    Tina,

    Happy New Year! This is a perfect exercise to start a new decade, and I will share it with friends and colleagues.

    All the best,

    Mary

  78. Thea Westra from myforwardsteps.com

    Jan 02 10, 3:35 am UTC

    78

    My purpose is to provide products, programs and tools that inspire and empower you, enabling you to unleash your personal creativity and your unique contribution in life.

    Forward Steps is all about just that …forward steps.
    If we are facing in the right direction, all we have to do is keep on walking

    My mantra is that “Each forward step enhances the value of your first”. I love to provide tools and inspirations that keep you stepping forward with the things you want to achieve.

    My three target goals for 2010 are:

    …to grow the My Forward Steps Membership to 500 vibrant Members who love engaging with each other, with me and with all the resources I am providing there,

    …to have 1,000 of the site visitors to Time For My Life buy a copy for themselves and use it each day, then write to me at the end of 12-months with their shared experiences,

    …to have made a tangible difference to the lives of more than 500 families through my participation within the Forward Steps Team at Kiva.org I have already made a good start at my own personal Kiva Lender page.

    Cheers,
    Thea

  79. Christina King

    Jan 29 10, 3:01 pm UTC

    79

    Great! Just what I was looking for. THANK YOU!

  80. Britt

    Feb 26 10, 12:56 pm UTC

    80

    “I want to inspire, motivate, change lives, views, bring inner peace and the recognition to tune into oneself. I will nurture, guide, understand, and travel to make an impact in people, organizations, and groups, reaching causes and environments to create confidence within oneself, promote positivity, and understanding mistakes that have and may happen are ok. One needs to believe within themselves and know the only one in charge and control of their life, journey, and how it will unfold, is themself”.

    -Brittany Steward

  81. sunny suman

    Apr 30 10, 2:32 am UTC

    81

    Great stuff!!!
    Seems that your traits, visions and paths are very much similar to mine! Loved reading the post.
    Thanks for it.

  82. Matthew Bowen

    May 11 10, 8:25 pm UTC

    82

    Thank you for this post, it has helped my to define my purpose!
    My purpose is “to leave this world smiling, having followed in the footsteps of my sensei and having entrusted this path to the next generation; to have lived under the philosophy of having no regrets; to have protected my friends and family; to never give up in what I believe in; to have made a difference to the lives of those closest to me; to look back at the end and be happy.”

  83. Castaly Lombe

    May 16 10, 11:21 pm UTC

    83

    Thanks for a terrific article. I would like to use parts of it with acknowledgement to you and your site, which is great! Our software gets people to create a life purpose or mission and then align their goals and tasks to it. As they journal to these activities, they further clarify their alignement and get focus. It’s a wonderful self perpetuating exercise. As far as I know, our software is unquie in this 3 part interactive process and ongoing journalling. Have a look and thanks again for your material which will help people in the first part of the process…. defining the life purpose. PS> We are looking for partners as our software is complete web application that people can use from your web site. Let me know if you are interested and keep up the great work.

  84. Francesca

    Jul 11 10, 6:17 pm UTC

    84

    Hi Tina, great post!
    I´m into a big process of changing, and I wrote down my purpose before, with a very similar process. I share this with you, grateful of the reminding!
    “Through my art I offer to people questions, a new vision and a different approach to life, so we can grow and find more meaningful ways to live.”
    http://www.francescadallabenetta.com

  85. John Sherry

    Jul 22 10, 8:54 am UTC

    85

    This is a full blown exercise for changing your life. You could have made a mega e-book Tina it’s so valuable and empowering. May I add a question I have asked myself before; Would I do this for free because I love it so much? If I would do something for free because it’s grabbed me, inspired me, unlocked and animated me then it gets my attention and I have to explore it as a or my mission. It’s what’s lead me here so it can’t be bad. For now I will have to sit down and contemplate all you have asked here to see if I’m on track for who I am to meet my true destiny. For that I thank you.

  86. Vic

    Jul 26 10, 6:47 pm UTC

    86

    My favorite among the question is about what are my deepest values?
    This is the question that will really help me understand who i am and what I am will be. But aside from determining those values, we also need to find out what are our principles in life. These principles along with our values are the building blocks of our lives. Hence, we need to fully assure that we have the right principles and values in ourselves. Thank you for a great share.

  87. G

    Jul 28 10, 5:36 pm UTC

    87

    Purpose gives meaning to your life. It provides you with coherence and focus in your personal as well as professional lives. Drawing on your own personal stories, prepare a purpose statement that reflects what you are called to do in life.

    My purpose in life is to live according to my spiritual beliefs by putting God first, striving to better myself (man, husband, father, friend, educator, business owner, etc.), provide and protect my family, provide opportunities for those in need, and to support, encourage, motivate, and guide our youth in the right direction in life.

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