Have you ever asked a homeowner if they like their house? Most people answer in the affirmative without hesitation. Take this test and you will see how proud and satisfied most people are about their home.
But have you ever wondered why most homeowners have enjoyed their homes for years? There are various answers such as: “cool layout”, “nice furnishings”, “a lot of things run automatically”, “have a pool and a large garden” – the list could go on and on. But behind all these superficial features lies something much more fundamental. Something that all houses have in common: their foundations.
No homeowner would ever move into a house with a damaged, faulty or shaky foundation – never in their life. The foundation is the basis that guarantees stability and longevity
But what about the foundation of your business? And more importantly, what about the foundation of your life? In this article, we’ll dive deep into the concept of life purpose, why it’s central to your personal and professional growth and how it can take your business to the next level – whether you’re an entrepreneur, manager or “normal” person looking for meaning and fulfilment.
Why do so few people know their purpose in life?
According to studies, around 80% of all people do not know what their “true” life purpose is. This figure is both astonishing and worrying. If so many people do not know their own core, deepest motivation and inner drive, how can they expect to live a fulfilling life or build a successful business? This question leads us to a contradictory observation: while people place great importance on the physical foundation of their house – after all, no one would buy or move into a house without a stable foundation – they often neglect the foundation of their own lives and careers.
For the self-employed and entrepreneurs, this gap is particularly noticeable. It is estimated that over 95% of this group do not consciously know their life purpose, and their business is rarely based on this central element. Worse still, their life purpose is often not even linked to their business strategy. That’s a shame, because this is where there is enormous untapped potential. Life purpose isn’t just a philosophical concept – it’s a strategic advantage that can set your business apart from the competition.
What is a life purpose and why is it so important?
Your life purpose is the element that drives you every day to do what is necessary for your soul, your personal development and the achievement of your life goals. Everyone has an “installed” life purpose from birth that is unique to them – much like a genetic makeup. This purpose is not a fleeting whim or a short-term goal, but a deep, inner direction that guides their actions and gives them clarity about who they are and what they “really” want.
For entrepreneurs and managers, life purpose means more than just personal fulfillment. It is the foundation for a sustainable, successful business. When your business is based on your life purpose, it creates an authenticity and passion that translates to your customers, employees and partners. It enables you to make decisions with conviction, take risks and think long-term – qualities that are crucial in a fast-paced, often uncertain business world.
Life purpose is also invaluable for ‘normal’ people who may not be in a leadership role. It helps to fill everyday life with more meaning, reduce stress and create a sense of satisfaction and purpose. Whether they are founding a startup, leading a team or simply want to understand their life better, life purpose is key.
The many benefits for your business
Have you ever consciously thought about the benefits to your business of using your life purpose as a foundation? Here are some of the key points that can help entrepreneurs, managers and individuals alike:
1. clarity about yourself and your natural strengths and talents: When you know your life purpose, you better understand what really drives you and where your unique abilities lie. This gives you self-confidence and allows you to focus on areas where you truly excel.
2. uniqueness through your DNA: The combination of your strengths, talents, knowledge and experience is unique. It is your personal “DNA” that sets you apart from others. Entrepreneurs can use this uniqueness to create products or services that are truly special.
3. clear direction for your business: A business that is based on your life purpose has a clear direction. This not only helps you, but also your employees and customers to better understand and identify with your company. An example from my practice: A customer who clearly defined his life purpose was able to increase his average monthly sales by more than 30% within six months – simply due to the clear direction and the associated focus.
4. competitive advantage through differentiation: In a world where many companies offer similar products or services, it is crucial to stand out. If your life purpose is the basis of your strategy, you create a unique positioning that your competitors can’t copy.
Aren’t these convincing arguments for taking a close look at your life purpose? Or do you want to continue living in a house – or running a business – whose foundations are shaky?
How do I find my life purpose?
Many self-employed professionals, managers and individuals have an “unconscious” life purpose. They may feel that they are destined for something in particular, but are unable to name it precisely. Unfortunately, very few write down their life purpose and make it consciously present to themselves. This is a shame, because only when they clearly formulate and integrate their life purpose can they actively use it.
Here are some questions to help you discover your life purpose:
- What are my absolute personal strengths? Think about the areas in which you are particularly good and where you receive recognition from others.
- Where and with what do I feel good? Think about situations in which you feel energized and happy – these could be hobbies, professional activities or social interactions.
- What did I absolutely love doing as a child and forget about time? Often our true life purpose lies in things that inspired us early on, before external influences and expectations shaped our actions.
- What do I long for the most? What is my greatest wish? Why? This question takes you deep into your values and visions. The “why” aspect is particularly important as it reveals the root of your motivation.
These questions are a good starting point, but the process of finding your life purpose often goes deeper. In my PEP coaching program, we dive deeper into the subject matter. The results of this process not only give you clarity, but also serve as the basis for your unique strategic positioning – both for your personal life and for your business.
Life purpose and sustainable success
Life purpose is not only a tool for short-term success, but also the basis for sustainable growth. Entrepreneurs who know and live their life purpose create companies that are not only financially successful, but also make a positive contribution to society. Managers who are guided by their life purpose inspire their teams and foster a culture of authenticity and innovation. And “normal” people who discover their life purpose find more satisfaction and balance in their daily lives.
Another important aspect is adaptability. In a world that is constantly changing – be it through technological advances, economic fluctuations or social trends – it is crucial to remain flexible. Having a clearly defined life purpose helps you stay focused even in uncertain times and make decisions that are in line with your values and goals.
Practical tips for the future
To filter your life purpose and use it as a foundation for your business or life, here are some practical tips:
1. become aware of your natural strengths and talents: use assessments, feedback from others or self-reflection to identify your unique skills.
2. write down your life purpose: Articulate it clearly and concisely. An example could be: “My life purpose is to inspire and empower people to realize their full potential through innovative solutions.” Post this phrase in a place where you will see it every day.
3. integrate your life purpose into your strategy: Whether you are running a business, managing a team or simply organizing your life – make sure that every decision and every goal is in line with your life purpose.
4. remain open to change: Your life purpose may evolve over time. Be willing to adapt and redefine it as new insights or experiences arise.
5. share your life purpose with others: Communicate your purpose with your coworkers, clients or family. This builds trust and strengthens relationships.
By following these steps, you will not only create a stable foundation for your business, but also for your entire life. You will not only be more successful, but also more fulfilled – and that is a goal we all share, regardless of whether we are entrepreneurs, managers or “normal” people.
Conclusion: Your life purpose as a compass
Your life purpose is more than just an abstract concept – it is your compass in a complex world. It gives you direction, stability and the strength to overcome challenges. For entrepreneurs and managers, it is the key to sustainable success and competitive advantage. For everyone else, it is the path to a fulfilled and meaningful life.
Think of a house with a shaky foundation: nobody would want to live in it. In the same way, you should not dwell in a business or a life that is based on shaky foundations. Invest your time and energy in discovering and integrating your life purpose. This is the first and most important step towards a successful, fulfilling and sustainable life – both personally and professionally.
Let’s work together to recognize and live your life purpose. That would be the real change we all need. Start today and contact me to take your next step.
