Ask Mark Ward

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Check your Purpose.

It could be argued that one of the greatest fears for many of us is leaving the planet without doing what is ours to do. Yet, it is very easy for us to forget our “why?” in continuation of the “what?” We often get so caught up in the momentum of doing that we lose sight of our intention.

The question is simple: why are you doing what you are doing? It is in the absence of a clear vision/intention that we get sucked into a “vacuum of uncertainty,” continuing to go through the motions of existence at the expense of a life. We may be seen as productive and even successful, but closer examination might reveal that we have simply become a hamster on another’s wheel. We are fulfilling a necessary function that may be largely contributing to the success of another while neglecting our own.

Your reason for being, your motivation for getting up every morning and continuing your routine may have become simply a matter of habit. You, like so many, may simply declare that “it pays the bills.” That is a perfectly valid and reasonable response if that is the extent of your intention (no judgment). It is problematic, however, if you once had a clear intention for something else and somehow took an unintended detour. It is in these circumstances that apathy, anger, disconnection, and depression often begin to emerge. Humans are fueled by purpose. If we are lacking a clear purpose and intention, we are functioning on autopilot on a path that at some level (physically, mentally, emotionally, spiritually, or otherwise) is leading to disaster.

Our purpose is usually not static; it is not a “one-and-done examination.” It usually requires an annual check-up. Our lives, needs, desires, and the world continue to grow and evolve. If we are to achieve true satisfaction, fulfillment, and success, we must grow and evolve with it.

Success or sabotage? Success is only possible if it is continually measured and defined. We must know why we are doing what we are doing and to what end.

Is this going to be an incredible day? If you are clear in your intention and the steps that you will take to bring it to fruition, you cannot ultimately fail.