Some of the most interesting and accomplished people I have met have a clear vision for themselves and seem to have the foresight to predict their future, while others appear hopeless with a glazed look in their eyes.
Could it be that knowing one’s purpose is the key?
So what is a life vision?
It is an expression that defines:
- Who do you want to be?
Is it an entrepreneur, a nurse, a professional athlete? - What do you want to be known for?
Is it creating a company that provides great products and local jobs, having the best expertise at your hospital, or maybe even breaking the current world record? - How would you like to be remembered?
Is it for being an inspirational force, a kind and gentle person, or a determined and driven individual?
Your life vision is an expression that impacts the aspirations you have; to create affordable products, take care of those in need, or be the best in your field. Also, the experiences you desire such as; your frequency of travel, the people you engage with, and your relationship with health and fitness.
Your life’s purpose is your reason ‘Why’ and must be ‘big enough’. If it is too small it will not be sufficiently challenging and you will become easily bored. Too grand and it may feel unattainable causing you to give up on your dreams.
It is not the same as goals and individual accomplishments because it is a bigger picture of your life. A vision too limited may not provide enough inspiration. It should be short so it becomes your mantra, and simple, so it is easy to remember, adapt and apply. Most importantly, it should be specific to YOUR life.
Your life vision is about YOU and only you, it should not be done to please others. This is your personal roadmap to living your life… YOUR way.
There are many benefits to identifying your purpose or life vision.
- It gives your life purpose, meaning, and direction. You will have a clearer insight into the road you choose to travel because you know the destination.
- It fuels inspired action. When you know your purpose, you recognise inspiration in places you would not have considered before because you become more self-aware.
- It makes it easier to keep motivated. Knowing the reward of living your purpose can ensure you don’t give up when things get tough… and they will, at various points in your journey.
- It gives your life clarity. It supports making decisions to create a better lifestyle. For example, how you spend your time and your finances will be better aligned with your purpose.
- It provides a focal point. When you are focused, it becomes easier to cope with resistance and ignore unsolicited criticism from others. This is a trait successful leaders have mastered.
- It makes it easier to overcome obstacles. In the journey of life, there will be obstacles, it is a guarantee. When you have a life vision you are more likely to remain committed because the outcome is greater than the individual challenges.
- It positively impacts more people than just you. Although your life vision is personal to you, it can change the lives of many because the nature of a life vision is bigger than the individual.
As a starting point when identifying your life vision, consider what is important to you and scope it accordingly, for example, if health is most important to you, then which aspect of health resonates? Is it mindfulness or nutrition? Or maybe both?
Remember, the life purpose you choose to pursue is not about pleasing others. Don’t be judgmental about your choices or lack thereof. Your current situation is just that, your current situation. You can change it by using the resources you have now and building on them over time. Don’t limit yourself. If you are unable to create your life vision now, it doesn’t mean you can’t do it at all.
Another way to discover your life vision is by using the concept covered in our blog Have You Found Your Ikigai Yet?
Ikigai is a Japanese concept that means your reason for being or the thing that gets you up in the morning. It is that ultimate point where your desires, strengths, and contribution to the world meet in perfect fulfilment. Life feels purposeful and it is considered by most to be the key to longevity and happiness.
Having a clear structure of how you can identify your life’s purpose can keep you focused and add the momentum you need to succeed. The Finding your Ikigai activity provides a fun way for you to discover your reason for being.
Want to know why you should identify your life vision, so you get the motivation to do what it takes to live a happy life and at the same time, uplift the world in a way that only you can? Knowing your life’s purpose, discovering your life vision, or identifying the thing that gives your life meaning, is fundamental to feeling fulfilled.
This video will help you to discover why it is vital to identify your life vision now, so you can live the life you are meant to live and share your gifts with the world.
Taking total responsibility for every aspect of your life empowers you to become the victor, not feel like the victim. Ultimately, it is your life, and accepting that you are totally in charge of your destiny, through your thoughts, decisions and actions can change your circumstances from one of existing to one of living your best life ever.
The Institute for Achievement and Excellence ©
