Discovering Your "Why": Finding Your Purpose in Life

How do you find out your "why"? How do you figure out what you want to do for the rest of your life?

These are questions that many of us grapple with, especially during major transitions like graduation. I remember being on the verge of graduation, feeling like everyone around me had it all figured out. They were ready to embark on the next part of their journey, while I was a mess inside. I felt defeated and lost in life. But here's the thing: when you find what you love, you'll do great work, and that great work will change you and the world.

The Struggle of Finding Your "Why"

If you're struggling with this, know that experiences bring light to your purpose and "why." Coming out of high school, all I knew was high school and the experiences I had until graduation. It's like if you’ve only ever tried pasta and pizza—how can you know what kind of food is out there? You need to experience it all to understand what you truly want.

The first step in finding your "why" is to recognize that it's okay not to have everything figured out. Many people, regardless of age, are still on this journey. It’s a process, and everyone’s path is different. Allow yourself the grace to explore, make mistakes, and discover new things.

The Importance of Experience

If you're in this position, try as many different jobs as you can. This will bring you closer to your "why." I always wanted to own my own business, motivate others, and help them grow. This became clear when I got my first personal trainer. To this day, he’s still my trainer, but I also bought three franchises from him and sold them because I found my "why" through experience, not just school or listening to others.

Think of your journey as a buffet. You wouldn’t go to a buffet and only eat the bread and butter, would you? You’d try different dishes to see what you like best. The same goes for finding your career path. Trying different jobs gives you a taste of various industries, work environments, and roles. It helps you understand what you enjoy and what you don’t, what you’re good at, and where you might need improvement.

Overcoming Fear and Taking Risks

One major obstacle that holds people back from finding their "why" is fear—fear of failure, fear of judgment, fear of the unknown. It’s important to acknowledge these fears but not let them control your decisions. Taking risks and stepping out of your comfort zone is crucial for growth.

When I was younger, I was terrified of failing. But the truth is, failure is just a stepping stone to success. Each failure teaches you something valuable and brings you one step closer to your "why." So, don’t be afraid to take that leap, even if it feels daunting.

The Role of Mentors and Guides

Another important aspect of finding your "why" is seeking guidance from mentors and role models. Surround yourself with people who inspire you, who have achieved what you aspire to do, or who simply have a positive influence on your life. Their experiences and advice can provide valuable insights and help you navigate your own path.

For me, my personal trainer was a significant mentor. His guidance not only helped me in my fitness journey but also inspired me to explore business opportunities. Having someone to look up to and learn from made a huge difference in my journey.

Continuous Learning and Adaptation

Finding your "why" is not a one-time event; it's a continuous process. As you grow and evolve, your interests, passions, and goals may change. It’s important to stay open-minded and adaptable. Keep learning, keep exploring, and don’t be afraid to pivot when necessary.

For instance, after selling the franchises I bought from my trainer, I didn’t stop there. I continued to seek out new opportunities, learn new skills, and adapt to the ever-changing business landscape. This continuous learning and adaptation have been crucial in keeping me aligned with my "why."

Embracing the Journey

Finally, remember to embrace the journey. Finding your "why" is not just about the destination; it’s about the experiences, the growth, and the lessons you learn along the way. Enjoy the process, celebrate your achievements, and don’t be too hard on yourself when things don’t go as planned.

Reflecting on my own journey, I realize that each step, each job, and each experience has shaped who I am today. It hasn’t always been easy, but it’s been worth it. And I know that I’m not alone in this. Many people have walked this path and found their purpose through a series of trials, errors, and triumphs.

Practical Steps to Finding Your "Why"

To wrap things up, here are some practical steps you can take to find your "why":

1. Explore Different Jobs and Industries: Don’t limit yourself to one field. Try various roles and industries to see what resonates with you.

2. Seek Guidance from Mentors: Find mentors who can provide insights, advice, and support. Learn from their experiences.

3. Embrace Failure: Don’t be afraid to fail. Each failure is a learning opportunity that brings you closer to your "why."

4. Stay Open-Minded and Adaptable: Your "why" may evolve over time. Stay open to new experiences and be willing to adapt.

5. Reflect on Your Experiences: Take time to reflect on what you enjoy, what you’re good at, and what makes you feel fulfilled.

6. Take Action: Don’t just think about your "why"—take action. Try new things, take risks, and actively pursue your passions.

Finding your "why" is a journey that requires patience, exploration, and a willingness to step out of your comfort zone. But when you find it, it will be the driving force behind your success and fulfillment. So, get out there, experience life, and discover what truly lights you up.