Succeed by Living Your Purpose

It is not a surprise that more and more people are creating, refreshing, and talking about their life's purpose in these days of incredible disruption and change. After all, America has failed to manage the global pandemic within our borders, economic and racial injustice is starkly visible, our fragile democratic system is deeply frayed, and human beings are on the precipice of dooming a livable, thriving planet. In the midst of these four crises, many of us are considering what and who is most important to them and how we want to live. These reflections are leading us to define or redefine our purpose and then act in new, exciting ways.

Innovative, committed individuals and organizations are thinking about and creating ways to solve problems by looking across disciplines, communities, and potential solutions. I am engaged in powerful conversations that blend economic, racial, and environmental justice with the wisdom of the natural world. While we do not yet know what the results will be, it is clear that impact will occur not only because those involved are tapping their expertise, but also because we are aligned with our purpose.

Dr. Shanita M. Williams' message is refreshing; she defines success as each individual’s purpose, not anyone else's, and she urges us to “crush” our comfort zone. This is an important message for young and old. Those of us whose lives have been largely focused on our purpose always need a refresh and young people who embrace this wisdom early in life will have an arrow in their quiver that will help them aim straight and be fulfilled. The bottom line is that when each of us taps our expertise and focuses on our purpose, we will be energized, engaged, and contributing. Fulfilling your individual purpose will be your achievement, your success.