We can do no great things-only small things with great love.
~ Mother Teresa
If you cannot do great things, do small things in a great way.
~ Napolean Hill
When we think of purpose, what comes up for most people is something big and life-changing.
I’m in complete accord with the desire to make an impact in the world. to find what excites and fulfills you. That shows up for many people as meaningful work that they love to do.
However, it’s important to recognize the small things you’re probably already doing that encompass a sense of purpose. Your life doesn’t have to lack purpose just because you may not be doing that one big thing.
Every small act of kindness contains purpose within it. And the great thing about acts of kindness is that they have a tendency to ripple outward to others. We tend to minimize, in our minds, the affect we can have on others. We also minimize our own sense of happiness that can be the result of doing a simple helpful thing.
An example of a small, powerful thing:
My sister has a health condition that affects her sense of balance. One day she was coming out of her local grocery store with a couple of bags of groceries. A woman sitting in the car next to hers noticed this. She jumped out to help her get the bags loaded into her car. My sister was just beaming when she told me of this stranger’s kindness to her. She also loved the friendly exchange they had. It made her day! I felt grateful too, that someone had been there to help.
You find purpose in a connection to something greater than yourself.
Some ways you can experience purpose are:
- in your relationships
- your work
- spiritual growth
- a connection to nature
- love of animals
- a hobby
- parenting
Here are some suggestions to get you thinking:
- What do you do that gives you the greatest sense of peace, joy and/or well-being?
- Identify your strengths. What are your talents and skills that you enjoy?
- What are your top five values? If you’re not sure, here’s a great tool for discovering them.
- Appreciate beauty. This is actually a spiritual practice. Notice how you feel when you appreciate beautiful flowers, a golden fall day or a beautiful work of art. From this high vibration, you access your higher self. You may even feel more of a sense of oneness with all life.
- If you’re having difficulty recognizing your strengths, ask family members or friends what they see as your strengths.
Where your values, strengths and joys come together, you’ll find purpose.
You don’t need to cure cancer or end world hunger. Caring for your child, adopting a rescue animal, or doing something kind for someone is purpose. Picking up litter you see on the street or volunteering at something you care about is purpose. Creating a beautiful work of art can give you a sense of purpose.
If you want to find purpose in your own spiritual growth, find a practice that connects you to the Divine. One way you can do that is by developing a meditation practice. Focus on expanding your ability to be compassionate.
What small things can you think of that bring you joy and feel fulfilling?
