Lots of people thought the original 5 Bucks a Day eBook that I wrote in 2006 was a case study in how I used what came to be known as Mini Money Sites to make money, using things like Google AdSense and AdWords and eBay affiliate links.
That case study wasn't evergreen, but the real point of the book is... the mindset stuff.
Things I harped on like focus and good enough is good enough and failure is your friend and all that.
Things haven't changed as far as mindset.
Here are a couple issues from the Mindset Mastery U course that I think you'll find interesting at least, and possibly life- or business-changing at best.
How to Find Your “Why” and Stay Aligned With Your Purpose
At some point, we all ask ourselves questions like, “What am I really doing this for?” or “What’s my purpose?” These questions stem from a desire to live a life of meaning, fulfillment, and alignment. Without a clear sense of purpose—or your “why”—it’s easy to feel lost, unmotivated, or stuck in routines that don’t light you up.
Your “why” is your core reason for doing what you do. It’s the driving force behind your goals, decisions, and actions. When you’re connected to your purpose, you feel more inspired, resilient, and focused, even in the face of challenges. But finding your “why” and staying aligned with it requires intentional reflection and practice.
In this article, we’ll explore how to uncover your “why” and share actionable strategies to help you stay aligned with your purpose, so you can live a life that truly feels meaningful.
Step 1: Reflect on What Truly Matters to You
Your “why” is deeply personal—it’s tied to your values, passions, and the things that light you up inside. To uncover it, start by reflecting on what’s most important to you.
Questions to Ask Yourself:
What brings me joy?
Think about activities, people, or moments that make you feel alive and fulfilled.
Example: “I feel happiest when I’m helping others solve problems or creating something meaningful.”
What do I value most?
Identify the values that guide your life. Is it family, creativity, growth, connection, freedom, or something else?
Example: “I value connection and authenticity, and I want to build deeper relationships with others.”
What do I want to be remembered for?
Consider the legacy you want to leave behind. What impact do you want to have on others?
Example: “I want to be remembered as someone who inspired others to believe in themselves.”
Step 2: Explore Your Passions and Strengths
Your purpose often lies at the intersection of what you love and what you’re naturally good at. Identifying your passions and strengths can help you uncover where your energy and talents are best spent.
How to Explore This:
Think About Flow Moments: Reflect on times when you were so immersed in an activity that hours felt like minutes. What were you doing?
Example: “I lose track of time when I’m writing, mentoring others, or brainstorming creative ideas.”
Identify What Comes Naturally: What do people often compliment you on or seek your advice about?
Example: “People often tell me I’m a great listener and problem-solver.”
Combine Passion and Impact: Ask yourself, “How can I use what I love and what I’m good at to make a difference?”
Step 3: Define Your “Why” Statement
Once you’ve reflected on your values, passions, and strengths, it’s time to craft your “why” into a clear and actionable statement. Your “why” statement should inspire and ground you, while also acting as a guide for your decisions.
How to Write Your “Why” Statement:
Template: “My purpose is to [what you want to do] so that [the impact you want to create].”
Example 1: “My purpose is to empower others through education so they can unlock their full potential.”
Example 2: “My purpose is to create meaningful art that inspires people to see the beauty in everyday life.”
Keep It Simple: Avoid overcomplicating it. Focus on clarity and authenticity.
Make It Personal: Your “why” should resonate deeply with you—it’s not about what others expect from you.
Step 4: Align Your Actions With Your “Why”
Finding your “why” is just the beginning. The real challenge is staying aligned with it in your daily life. This means making intentional choices that reflect your purpose and letting your “why” guide your actions.
How to Stay Aligned:
Set Purpose-Driven Goals:
Break your “why” into actionable steps. Set goals that align with your purpose and move you closer to living it daily.
Example: If your “why” is to help others, set a goal to volunteer, mentor someone, or launch a project that serves your community.
Evaluate Your Choices:
Regularly ask yourself, “Does this decision align with my purpose?” If not, consider letting it go.
Example: If your “why” is about family connection, you might prioritize spending more quality time with loved ones over taking on extra work.
Create Daily Rituals:
Incorporate small habits into your routine that reflect your purpose.
Example: If your “why” is to inspire others, start each day by writing a motivational message or sharing something uplifting.
Step 5: Stay Flexible and Revisit Your “Why”
Your “why” may evolve as you grow and experience new phases of life. Staying aligned with your purpose means being open to adjusting it as needed.
How to Stay Flexible:
Check In Regularly: Take time to reflect on your purpose every few months. Ask yourself, “Does my ‘why’ still feel true and meaningful?”
Embrace Change: Don’t be afraid to adjust your “why” if your passions or values shift. Growth is natural.
Example: If you discover a new passion for environmental advocacy, your “why” might evolve to include making a positive impact on the planet.
Step 6: Surround Yourself With Like-Minded People
The people around you play a significant role in keeping you aligned with your purpose. Surrounding yourself with supportive, purpose-driven individuals can help you stay inspired and accountable.
How to Build a Supportive Circle:
Find Your Tribe: Seek out communities, groups, or mentors who share similar values or goals.
Example: Join a local organization, mastermind group, or online community that aligns with your “why.”
Share Your Purpose: Let others in your circle know about your “why.” They can help encourage you and hold you accountable to living it.
Limit Negative Influences: Distance yourself from people who drain your energy or discourage your dreams.
Step 7: Celebrate Your Progress
Living in alignment with your purpose is a journey, not a destination. It’s important to celebrate the milestones, big and small, that reflect your commitment to your “why.”
How to Celebrate:
Reflect on Wins: Take time to acknowledge the ways you’ve stayed true to your purpose.
Example: “This week, I stayed aligned with my purpose by mentoring a colleague and writing a blog post that inspired others.”
Reward Yourself: Treat yourself when you reach a goal that reflects your “why.” It reinforces the habit of staying aligned.
Final Thoughts
Finding your “why” and staying aligned with your purpose is one of the most fulfilling journeys you can embark on. Your “why” acts as your compass, guiding your actions, decisions, and mindset as you face life’s challenges and opportunities.
Remember, your “why” doesn’t have to be grand or world-changing—it just needs to resonate with you deeply. It’s about living in a way that feels authentic and meaningful to you.
So, take the time to reflect, explore, and define your purpose. Then, let it guide you as you set goals, make decisions, and build a life that feels aligned with your true self.
Ask yourself today:
What truly lights me up?
How can I start living in alignment with my “why” right now?
You have the power to live a life of purpose and meaning. Start small, stay consistent, and trust that you’re on the right path. You’ve got this!
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Now… Oh My! Want a path to fixing what’ might be holding you back?
Might I suggest tackling one of these every 2 or 3 days, and in a month… magic!