Toward joy and purpose
I recently stepped out of a full-time, all-consuming job to focus on identifying and embracing the things that genuinely matter to me, rather than giving in to societal pressures or pursuing someone else’s superficial goals. During my working life, much of my unhappiness and dissatisfaction stemmed from my pursuit of external validation, as I chased goals and strived for a stable income. In some cases, more than others, my work goals did not align with my values.
So what was the wake-up call?
Regardless of who did what, I find myself diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis and the need to reflect on their core values and beliefs and to focus my time and energy on activities and relationships that resonate with these values. My core focus has moved me to experience a more profound sense of fulfilment and a more authentic way of living.
Shifting towards joy and purpose
As an Enneagram type one, I need to move towards engaging with things that truly matter, redirecting my focus of attention in my limited time and energy towards what brings genuine joy and purpose. The Perfectionist in me needs to let go of societal expectations and identify my own unique set of values and priorities. It means de-emphasising the need for approval from others and rejecting the idea that success is defined by external markers, such as wealth, social status, or even a Master’s Degree in “whatever”.
I need to invest in relationships that bring meaning to life and pursue activities that align with my passions and interests. At the end of the day the only people who held up my arms to this point were my husband, our four girls, loving family and close and caring friends, both in my personal and work context. This blog helps me focus on personal reflection and self-awareness in this process, as it enables us to understand our own values and distinguish them from the values imposed by society. I also hope that my insights will bring healing and hope to others as we explore all 9 lenses of the Enneagram.
Going forward, I will be selective about the problems and challenges that I choose to confront, as well as people who are toxic and have no inclination to grow away from these bad habits of the mind.
This idea is rooted in the belief that a fulfilling life is not devoid of problems or challenges and people that I don’t like. Instead, it is characterised by engaging with the right problems that align with our values and allow us to make progress toward the life we desire.
Join me on a journey to engage with the depths of our souls to untapped potential to become the best versions of ourselves.