There's a phrase that has always lingered in my mind, and it's one that seems to get under my skin or, at the very least, unsettles me. 

It goes like this: "Find your purpose and give your heart and soul to it." 

Alongside it, there's another saying: "The two most important days in your life are the day you are born and the day you find out why."

While these expressions might inspire many, for me, they raise questions and stir emotions.

To me, these phrases create an image of life as a grand treasure hunt, with the ultimate goal of discovering that elusive pot of gold known as "purpose." 

It suggests that once we unearth this purpose, it will magically guide and shape our lives. 

But what if we can't seem to find this treasure? 

Even worse, what if we don't even know where to start looking for the map that leads to it?

This notion of a singular, all-encompassing purpose can be overwhelming, especially for those who are still searching for that one giant revelation. 

It feels like there's an immense pressure to have it all figured out, to be able to succinctly define our purpose and dedicate ourselves wholly to it.

However, I've come to realize that life isn't always that straightforward. 

Life is often filled with twists and turns, and sometimes the true purpose of our existence might not be confined to a single defining moment. 

Instead, it might unfold gradually, shaped by our experiences, passions, and the people we encounter along the way.

And here's the thing, you don't have to put that immense pressure on yourself to have everything mapped out.

Life is a journey, and sometimes the paths aren't clear or well-defined. And you know what? That's absolutely fine.

Instead of feeling lost in the quest for one grand purpose, why don't we focus on something much more achievable? 

Let's simply look for how we can be useful.

You have compassion, skills, and talents unique to you. What if you use those gifts to make a positive impact on the world, even in the smallest ways? 

Truthfully, you are likely already doing more than you even realize!

We all exist on this earth for some pending period of time. 

So when people say, “What should I do with my life?” or “How can I shine my light?” or “What is my life purpose?” what they’re actually asking is: “What can I do with my time that is important?” To me and to others?

What was I “born to do” might be the wrong question… 

Instead, how can I be of use?

 How can I find a way where my time and energy is reflected back to me in a way that sustains me to do it again and again?

In order to help answer that question, there are 4 questions that may be help you clarify ways you can be “useful”:

1. What am I good at?

2. What am I passionate about (what could you talk about for 10 minutes right now if put on the spot)?

3. What does the world/my family/marketplace need right now?

4. How do I want to be remembered?

You will add the MOST value to this world when it’s aligned with these 4 areas because then you will be ALL IN!

The secret to finding your light is simply combining what you love with where you can add value to others.

If you still aren't sure how you can be useful, here is a little more clarity.

There are four areas where people almost always have a need. These are things that companies are willing to pay for, and individuals often find themselves searching for. While this list isn't all-encompassing, I have a feeling you can make a difference in at least one of these areas:

1. Solve A NEED

2. Take away a FEAR

3. Celebrate a VICTORY (or cheer someone on)

4. Instill HOPE

And if you don't know where to start, start with the lives of the people that God has already placed in front of you!  Start there and you’ll never go wrong!

Life's journey is not about having everything figured out from the start, but rather it's about the growth, connections, and love we share along the way.

Xo, Charity