Listen here.
This simple phrase really sums up my thought process when it comes to how I approach life and work.
I want to do things out of passion and purpose, not because they may or may not give me praise. I don't think anyone should be seeking something out of praise because that can be a very empty and unfulfilling journey. There's a possibility that praise will never come, and then you'll be miserable because you weren't able to achieve it.
Instead, do things because they matter to you. Do things you're passionate about that also serve a purpose in this world.
Here's an interesting truth: there's a much higher chance that you will receive praise from pursuing a purpose, than by going after praise itself. When you focus on doing meaningful work, recognition often follows naturally.
The Social Media Paradox
With the rise of social media, I think it may be difficult for people to understand this concept. Since it has become so easy for people to grow large followings and receive praise, whether from likes, comments, or in the form of money, it can be easy to think that's normal.
Even though there are lots of people making a living off of social media, I don't think, in most cases, that was their initial goal. I'm sure they started sharing about things they're passionate about and they began to grow from there.
Don't Limit Yourself
You should never limit yourself to one thing. Something that can happen occasionally with social media is that content creators can get stuck in certain niches even when they may have outgrown the area they initially started in.
There's definitely a lot more planning that goes into this than people may think. Even for myself, I am currently in the process of getting better at planning and being more intentional with the content I share on various platforms because I know I have way more potential than what I have been sharing. That in itself is both exciting and slightly terrifying to know just how much I can expand and grow!
The Reality Check
However, it is important to realize that none of it is going to be easy, which is why you need to be passionate about what it is that you're sharing. At the end of the day, praise means nothing if you're putting out content that isn't important to you or doing work that isn't fulfilling.
We have a limited amount of time on this planet and we need to use it wisely.
Finding Your Purpose
Take the time to figure out what it is that you're passionate about. It may be a few different things, but figuring that out will help you determine your purpose.
If you need help figuring out those things that are important to you, I highly encourage you to check out my Personal Values Assessment Tool. This is a guided workbook that will take you through different exercises to help you determine what areas of your life are most important to you. Not only will this help you in any endeavors you're looking to begin, but also in your relationships as well.
0 comments