Purpose is more important than goals

I recently met Vibhas after more than a decade. In all the catching up, I saw his eyes light up when he spoke about his “life driving purpose”. It has come to define the reason of his existence. Every thing he was doing, the smaller goals, the tasks, everything was geared towards this big mission.

Years ago, I had seen this video by Simon Sinek on “why we do what we do”. It almost gave a new lens for every decision I was going to make in the future.

Here’s another perspective on the same topic in this short talk by Simon Sinek on Purpose.

In almost all my conversations with people I interact with, there is talk about goals, even actions but very few talk about purpose. Since I am an investment adviser, most of these conversations are about money, investments, etc.

We end up setting goals to make money decisions more focused than random. However, as I have realised all goals must have a purpose.

Build a House OR Save for Child’s education are important goals too. But let’s go beyond.

1. What should your life stand for?

2. How do you want to be remembered?

3. What will be your legacy?

4. What change will you drive?

5. What matters to you?

The Power

Purpose, as Simon says, is what keeps us going. Against all odds.

It helps us focus.

It helps you go through the rigmarole of day to day. In fact, it helps you prioritize and make the most of the limited time you have everyday.

It is your lighthouse. It helps you make better decisions and avoid bad ones.

It makes it easier to say NO because you have a deeper YES burning inside.

It goes beyond investment returns or 8 figure salary or a large house and car. It is that which can bring you true happiness.

While you spend a lot of time on goals, I say take some time to define your Purpose.

How to find your Purpose?

Sometimes, a purpose works silently in the background. You have a hazy feeling but you are not sure. Spelling it out can make a huge difference.

I have a simple 3 step method to find or clarify your purpose.

First, become a little more aware of what actions make you happy? As you observe over time, you will realise a purpose is emerging by itself. Just allow it the space.

Second, start writing / journaling. There may be several iterations before you know what drives you. Writing helps a lot in the process.

Finally, talk openly to someone you trust with your thoughts. S/he can help you clarify random thoughts and zero down on what matters to you.

This is how I derived mine.

“Enable individuals to reach their full potential, live their purpose by reducing the stress around money decisions.”

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So, what’s yours?