This blog post has been authored by Tina Elinwa, Transvolve Academy
In a world where professional women are shattering glass ceilings and achieving remarkable success in their careers, there’s a remarkable paradox that often remains hidden beneath the veneer of achievement. Many of these accomplished women, despite their professional triumphs, find themselves wrestling with a profound question: What is my life’s purpose beyond the office walls? It’s a question that tugs at their hearts, beckoning them to embark on a journey of self-discovery that is both personal and passionate.
This struggle is often an internal one, an unseen battle fought in the quiet moments before sleep or during moments of introspection. Professional women who have dedicated their energy, time, and talents to their careers often yearn for a sense of purpose that extends beyond their professional identities.
The quest for fulfillment outside of work is a universal human longing, but it can feel especially pressing for women who have dedicated so much of themselves to their careers. The good news is that this quest can be addressed, and the path to discovery of purpose is paved with passion.
One way to reconnect with your life purpose is to revisit your passions. To live a truly fulfilling life, our passions must be connected to our life’s purpose, and our life’s purpose is hinged on service to others. We cannot separate our passions from our purposes. They need to co-exist. My many years of learning about “calling” has led me to this realization.
Think back to your childhood and recall the activities that made your heart race with excitement. Did you spend hours drawing, writing, playing an instrument, baby-sitting, or exploring nature? Think about causes, inititatives or movements that awaken your soul, that light up your desire to touch lives. Do you see yourself doing the following – reconnecting families, healing relationships, empowering education, environmental conservation, mental health advocacy, social justice and equality, healthcare access, community building and empowerment, art and creativity, peacebuilding and conflict resolution etc? I could keep going.
Our passions are often intertwined with our purpose. Take a moment to reflect on what truly matters to you. Is it the joy of creativity, the thrill of adventure, the satisfaction of helping others, or the desire to make a positive impact on the world? By aligning your passions with your purpose, you can unlock a profound sense of fulfillment.
Time is a precious commodity, and dedicating it to self-exploration is a powerful step in identifying your passion. Carve out time in your schedule for personal reflection and exploration. Whether it’s dedicating a few hours each week or setting aside an entire weekend, this commitment to yourself is an investment that yields valuable returns.
Failure is not a roadblock on your journey to purpose. It’s a signpost guiding the way. Embrace the lessons that come with setbacks and failures. Each stumble is an opportunity to learn, grow, and get closer to uncovering what truly ignites your passion.
In your quest to discover your passion, draw inspiration from others who have walked similar paths. Read biographies, watch documentaries, and engage in conversations with people who have pursued their dreams and found their purpose. Their stories can offer valuable insights, guidance, and the reassurance that you are not alone in your journey.
Building a network of like-minded individuals can be a powerful catalyst for identifying your passions and discovering your purpose. Attend events, workshops, and conferences related to your interests. Forge connections with people who share your passions, and you’ll find a supportive community that can nurture your pursuit.
As you embark on this journey, remember that passions are not static. They evolve over time, just as you do. Be open to change and allow your interests to shift and grow along with your personal and professional development.
Mindfulness practices, such as meditation and journaling, can provide clarity on your passions. These practices invite you to connect with your inner self, explore your thoughts and feelings, and unearth hidden passions that may have been buried beneath the demands of your career.
Discovering your purpose is not a race; it’s a lifelong journey. Be patient with yourself and savor every moment along the way. Celebrate each small victory, and remember that the most beautiful destinations often require the longest journeys.
For professional women seeking a deeper sense of purpose beyond their careers, the quest is a personal and passionate journey of self-discovery. Join our free purpose clarity session to learn more about identifying your core passions and how to connect them to your life’s purpose. Many women have gone through this sessions and testified of how they got real clarity on their purpose and are on a path to creating lasting prosperity.
My name is Dr. Tina Elinwa and I am an experienced communications Consultant with over 10 years of experience in the communications and marketing industry. I hold a PhD in Communications and have a proven track record of success in my field. Throughout my career, I have demonstrated a strong ability to connect with people, build relationships, and inspire others to take action.
One of my greatest passions is serving people purposefully. I am an active member of my community and I am committed to giving back through volunteer work and youth mentorship. I am now hugely dedicated to helping executive women leaders build high-impact teams through my flagship program, “Leadership wellness check and the TC Framework”. I am also committed to helping women leaders attain mind clarity so that they can step into their life’s purpose unashamed and unafraid.