When it comes to finding Purpose, it’s only natural to go places, talk to people, travel, blog (!), find hobbies etc. Yet, the sheer fact that you are reading this post means that you are still looking or if you found it, you are not 100% sure. Don’t worry, it’s ok. As a matter of fact, I am one of you! Let me share with you my method, and when I say “mine”, I obviously haven’t invented it, I just stumble upon it during my: travels, talking to people, blogging etc. Before I reveal it let me open with a joke:
Once there was a poor man who prayed to God: “God, please let me win the lottery. I was always faithful to you and never asked for anything. Please grant me this one wish”. He prayed day and night but nothing happened. He knew in his heart that God is listening so he prayed even harder. Another year has passed but nothing happened. Then in his desperation he started cursing God: “Damn you God, I prayed day and night for the past two years but you didn’t let me win the lottery. That’s it, I’m through”. Having said that, the man left the temple with the strong resolution of never coming back. As soon as he left, the heavens opened and a booming voice spoke: “I let you win the lottery but first you need to buy the f…king ticket!”
Hard work does not always pay off, particularly if you walk in the wrong direction. How about instead of searching outside, you turn inside?! Instead of asking others you ask yourself…your true self. Surprising as it sounds, many of us don’t spend much time with ourselves. Ask yourself, when was the last time you sat in silence not overwhelmed by the internal chatter (or Sushi Train, as I call it)? Phone, tablet, laptop became your constant companion. Your journey to find Purpose has just began.
The longest journey you’re ever going to take is from your head to your heart
Wisdom is hidden from us in the most unexpected place, in your heart. It seems like a simple statement but try to spend a couple of minutes alone and you soon realise it’s not an easy one. Perhaps, it’s time to share a simple practice that will set you on your way:
5-10 MINUTES PRACTICE:
- Take 3 deep breaths. Inhale through your nose, exhale through your mouth.
- Focus your attention on you physical heart. Stay there for a minute.
- If you feel a sensation, a tingling, heat – stick with it. Try to imagine its shape. Play with it for a minute.
- Direct an open question (i.e. what is my purpose?) towards that space. Hold your breath and keep your attention there for another 15-20 seconds.
- Release and let go of everything. Take another deep breath if you must.
- Sit for another couple of minutes.
- Finish by expressing your gratitude to the Universe and yourself.
Simple does not mean easy but there you go, something to start with!
First love the joke.
Thank you Tomeck for reminding me of this important pointe. That the journey is from your head to heart. When I was into yoga philosophy my Guru, (kind of still am), would kind of say the same thing. I did that for a few years, but got side tracked. Just being with yourself is great, wonderful, but can be hard to do all the time. It has to be a must, but I admit sometimes life happens to throw you off. Thanks too for the short practice. So easy to remember. I love that you share your experiences. Don’t ever stop.
Christiane