Ever notice what happens when you gather a group to complete a task? With a challenge and a common goal people become energized and mobilized, it brings out their best.
I am watching my son and a group of people working on his gym. Moving and assembling equipment, designing and laying flooring to improve the space he and his two partners opened just a few months ago. It struck me while watching them the fascinating dynamics that occur when people come together and are bonded by a purpose and mission. You have no doubt seen it countless times: often it is a group moving or building something, putting their heads together to design a plan and working tirelessly together to make it happen. Or planning and organizing an event, designing and implementing everything to the smallest detail. Pulling together as a team, each eager to contribute to the clear task and goal. On a larger scale think of the bonding and teamwork after a crisis or traumatic event. In these times when there is something bigger than the individual at stake or there is a clear problem or challenge that requires action we often see the very best in people. Most people want to be involved, crave being useful and helpful and truly excel given a goal to work for that they can believe in. They are happy to answer the call to pitch in. Purpose. Mission. Meaning.
How is this also true in our individual personal lives? Do you find yourself to be more focused and successful when you have a clearly defined task or goal? Maybe you are at your best when the stakes are high or you are facing a deadline? Most people function best when they have a clear goal, an understanding of what they are to do and why as well as the feeling that what they do matters and contributes. When we find that elusive but magical combination: mission, purpose and meaning we will inevitably also find deep satisfaction and real lasting happiness.
So, what drives your life? For many this is a difficult question. But what might we accomplish and how might we feel if we had the answer and the energy and direction that comes with it? Knowing what is most important to you, having clear goals to strive for and are meaningful to you will bring out your best as well as set the foundation for a richly satisfying life.
For those that are uncertain or still looking for their mission and purpose start by making that your mission: to discover it. Take some time for self-reflection. Think about the times you felt at your best and the activities you most enjoy. Reevaluate your values and priorities and start to find the threads of meaning as well as the strengths and talents that are individually yours. These things will begin to take shape and can then be built upon to define your mission and purpose which is the foundation for setting meaningful goals.
What brings out our best as a group; a desire to achieve a common goal, to contribute, accomplish and make a difference also brings out the best in our own lives. All you have to do is ask: you are eager to answer the call, to be energized, mobilized and be your best.
Julia Skeesick, CPC. ELI -MP
Certified Personal Development Coach and owner of LifeScape partners with clients to discover their mission and purpose, set and achieve goals to design a life they love. She offers private and group coaching as well as workshops to facilitate self discovery and growth in all aspects of life.
Learn more about Julia and LifeScape at http://www.lifescapesite.com/ or call 630-465-0607
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