“If you don’t know where you are going, you will probably end up somewhere else.” –Lawrence J. Peter
Have you ever sat down with yourself and asked yourself: What do I really want out of life? I’m not talking about what you think you should want, or what other people or society thinks you should want, but what you, taking into consideration all that you are, really want your life to be about.
I don’t know that it’s an actual bucket list, but I do keep a list of places I want to travel to, see and explore. The Galapagos islands, for example, has always fascinated me. It’s been an interesting fact that, over the years, I find myself crossing places off the list (and sometimes adding new ones.) Having an idea of the places I want to go, though, gives me a sort of compass to guide my decisions when it comes time to travel to a new place.
The same is true with our dreams and goals. Having them gives us a compass, a direction that can guide us to where we want to go in life. What’s more, they help to shape us as individuals, provide a sense of meaning and purpose, and the joy in accomplishment.
Things like dreams and goals can easily get pushed aside as we go about our lives, as the responsibilities of careers, family, and going about the business of living take over.
It’s worth it, though, to take time occasionally to assess where we are and where we are going. Are we on course for the type of person we want to be, the type of life we want to live, the dreams we hoped to achieve some day?
In another post, I’m going to explore this topic further but, for now, here a few questions you might ask yourself to explore this idea. Bonus points for writing down your answers!
What have you always wanted to do? If you could do anything you wanted, time, money and responsibilities not being an issue, what would you do?
What we value shapes our lives. What values are important to you? How have they changed over the course of time? Are you still pursuing outdated aims and objectives?
When you are 95 years old, what will you want to say about your life? What do you hope other people will say about you?
Where do you want to be in 5 years? 10 years?
What is your mission in life, what is your purpose? What sort of contribution will you make to the people around you, your community, the world?
I know these are BIG questions. You may not be able to answer them fully in one sitting. That’s ok. Give yourself the time you need to find your answers. It’s worth it, you are worth it.
Like the man said, “If you don’t know where you are going, you will probably end up somewhere else.”
Thoughts? Comment below or email me at suzanne@evergreenlifeandwellness.com.