Understanding purpose gives clarity and vision when you look at the future. But what if you’re unsure of your purpose? Purpose seems to be a buzzword these days. Millions have purchased Rick Warren’s book The Purpose Driven Life. Without question, the age-old question “Why am I here?” is one every human being ponders. We all want to know why we are here and what it is that we should be doing.

For many there is a deep longing and sense of dissatisfaction that comes from living from paycheck to paycheck, waiting for the next best thing. The band Switchfoot in attempt to relate to their audience released a song entitled “Meant To Live” which reverberates this sentiment with the words, “We were meant to live for so much more. Have we lost ourselves? Somewhere we live inside…. We want more than this world’s got to offer.”

So what’s the answer? What is the key that will unlock the mystery of purpose and help pastors, leaders, and individuals discover what they were created for and live it out? Of course the foundation of this answer lies in having a personal relationship with Christ. From this vital relationship we begin to see that our Creator has designed us for a unique destiny.

It’s difficult to find a “one size fits all” answer to understanding purpose in our lives. In fact, the discovery of purpose is a unique journey that involves the various gifts, motivations, and talents that make us who we are. This kind of reflection takes time and effort and is much more than a one-time exercise.

Richard Leider says, “Crisis is the mirror of purpose.” Often times, crisis is the emergency brake that slows us down long enough to look at what’s really important and perform the kind of soul searching needed to tap into that which we’re called to do.

So, one of the major steps on this journey is discovering who you are. This is more than just contemplating your bellybutton; it’s an exciting look into the natural and supernatural motivations that make up your unique design. Once you begin to understand who you are and how you’re wired you can then begin to see what it is that you are to be doing.

Coaching can be a vital part of the discovery process helping understanding your purpose. A coach can walk beside you helping you unpack your rich history of experiences, understand your unique gifting and personality, and identify natural abilities and learned skills. All of which will provide a blueprint for your life.

Here’s a great Life Purpose Exercise you can use to help in understanding purpose for you or your clients.

Ron Marsh is a certified life coach who helps others live in the center of the purpose and passion. Meet Ron at www.PurposeFilledLife.com orwww.CoachingPastors.com/Marsh.htm