What?
Having a purpose is all about yourself, but not in the way you may initially think.
Members of today’s selfie generation seem only to want to look at their own reflections. Some call this the “see me” complex: “see me” in my new car, “see me” on vacation, see me on my birthday. Even if not intentionally, we’ve all become a part of this generation as we “share” on Facebook where we’ve done what? Created pages that are all about “me.” I don’t believe this has to be a bad thing. In fact, there is lots that is very positive about social platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc. But these platforms do open the door to people who “me” their friends to death.
Amidst this “see me” phenomenon, it’s important to clarify from where your purpose actually arises.
So what does my opening statement really mean? The meaning is perfectly illustrated in comments from three familiar people at recent commencement ceremonies.
“Purpose is that sense that we are part of something bigger than ourselves, that we are needed, that we have something better ahead to work for. Purpose is what creates true happiness. Summon your compassion, your curiosity, your empathy towards others and your commitment to service. Give more than you receive and I promise you, it will come back to you in ways you can’t possibly imagine.”
Facebook’s Mark Zuckerberg said this to Harvard’s 2017 graduates.
President Donald Trump gave a powerful commencement speech at Liberty University.
“No matter how cliché it may sound, you will never truly be successful until you learn to give beyond yourself. Empathy and kindness are the true signs of emotional intelligence.”
Comedian and actor Will Ferrell got serious for long enough to give an inspiring speech at the University of Southern California.
“As soon as you understand that you are here because of a lot of help, then you also understand that now is time to help others. That’s what this is all about. You got to help others. Don’t just think about yourself.”
If you’ll notice, these statements DON’T give lots of hints about driving revenue or climbing to the top of the corporate pyramid.
They DO share the importance of being part of something bigger than yourself, giving beyond yourself, understanding that you didn’t do it by yourself.
So, was I right? Purpose IS about yourself.
Source: Entrepreneur Daily
