“Who am I? What am I doing here? How can I make a difference?”
By Judith E. Lipson, M.A., LPC
Do you have a deep yearning to know? You probably first asked this of yourself while in college. During or after the child-rearing years, you may again face this sense of urgency. As you approach retirement, you will once again assess your life experiences and determine if you have really lived your purpose. This can be a life-long search because the journey, and therefore the answer, shifts.
This pursuit seems to take on a more vibrant call for the individuals that I call Sensitives – those who are keenly attuned to the six senses. Even during childhood, Sensitives feel urgency.
Sensitive or not, you probably feel it more prominently now. There is a need to shift our planet toward peace and love. If your direction and purpose still seem mysterious, you can begin to find your way.
SEEK PASSION OVER COMPULSION
When your purpose seems elusive, pay attention to what you pay attention to. The things that make you happy and make your heart sing are often indicative of your passion. It can guide you to knowing who you are and what you want in life.
This is a very different feeling than what is experienced when you play video and computer games. The enjoyment or compulsion of wanting to play is not from passion; gaming is very effective at keeping the brain occupied in order to avoid feelings.
What did you enjoy when you were a child? What types of books did you read? What made you laugh and brought you joy? It’s time to incorporate these playful activities into your adult life once again.
HEAR YOUR HEART AND SPIRIT
What am I most afraid of?
If I knew I would die in 3 months, what would I do??
If fear and money were not a factor…
What I know for sure. (Oprah’s O Magazine)
Using paper or computer, brainstorm the many ways that you can complete one of these phrases in order to identify your passions. Look for the patterns and themes that emerge. If you are feeling resistant, close your eyes and let your breath clear your mind. Most importantly, watch for the surge of emotions. If you experience a mini-cry, note it and keep going. You are getting close. These mini-surges may be direction-finders toward your purpose. When you identify the real deal, its energy will resonate within you.
RECOGNIZE THE ILLUSION OF THE EGO
Wayne Dyer teaches about perceived identity: The ego is an idea that each of us has about ourselves. Letting it become your identity can prevent you from knowing your true self. Instead, learn to recognize your inner reality. Inside is a still voice of wisdom that you have rarely heard or attended to. Dyer calls this your wise guide. Transcend your illusions to find and hear the guidance of your wise self.
OVERCOME RESISTANCE
In The War of Art, Steven Pressfield explains that you will experience resistance when you are moving upward from a lower vibrating level. The resistance is a sign that your wise self has recognized the dream and that you are being drawn to it.
Resistance is thought. You will think that they are your thoughts, but they are the illusion of the ego. Meditation allows you to transcend the illusionary voices so that you can hear your inner voice of wisdom and allow the fear-based thoughts to pass by.
Rather than succumbing to the fear, overcome it. Resistance is a sign that you are ascending toward your goal. Instead of judging yourself negatively, reframe resistance as readiness for the next step and take action.
DON’T DELAY
Don’t believe that something needs fixing before you can achieve. When you were little and naturally moved toward your purpose, others may have blocked you thinking they were helping. Now when you are almost there don’t sabotage yourself.
Your purpose is your calling. It may be your career, a hobby or volunteer work. Don’t limit yourself because you believe that you can only make a difference if you can be one thing or do another. These are limiting beliefs. Don’t underestimate the influence of the cashier who greets you with a warm smile that comes from the depths of her heart. She is no less important than the doctor who saves lives.
Amateurs yield to the resistance that appears as distractions and fear. Instead, think like professionals – play for keeps. Commit! As soon as you do, your Higher Self will provide a tail wind (synchronicities) to make the journey easier.
Judy Lipson is a Licensed Professional Counselor and educational strategist in West Bloomfield. She helps clients of all ages who have learning difficulties; work or school related anxiety; ADHD; Asperger’s Syndrome or Autism Spectrum Disorders; and those who wish to Remember and Become Who You Really Are. Contact Judy at 248.568.8665 and judylipson@spiralwisdom.net, and visit www. SpiralWisdom.net for more information.
