The purpose of life can vary for each individual and may include personal growth, seeking happiness, making meaningful connections, contributing to society, and exploring one's passions and potential. From the Bhagavad Gita, I've shared a message below.
Life is a stage for the soul's journey to self-realization, where each action must be performed with devotion, without attachment to the results. By the way this is called Nishkama Karma (action without desire). In the grand teachings of the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna speaks to Arjuna, urging him to rise above his doubts and fears. He tells him that the purpose of life is to fulfill one's dharma - one's righteous duty. But dharma is not simply about actions; it is the alignment of the soul with the divine will, transcending the material world.
To truly find purpose within, one must first quiet the mind and listen to the whispers of the soul. Purpose isn’t something that can be "found" in the outer world - it is discovered in the depths of one's own being, where stillness, intuition, and higher consciousness reside.
How can one find purpose?
Self-Reflection and Meditation: The mind is often clouded with desires, distractions, and the noise of the world. To find your true purpose, spend time in silence, away from the world. Meditation and self-reflection allow you to peel away the layers of ego and ambition. In that silence, you come to realize that purpose is not something external to chase - it is an unfolding of your true nature, your dharma, your gift to the world.
Align with Your Passions: Purpose often lies where your passions and talents intersect. When you do what you love, you naturally tap into your divine energy. In Hindu Scriptures, we see this through the example of Lord Krishna as he played the flute. His purpose was not merely to play an instrument, but to connect the hearts of souls through the divine sound. Find what brings you joy, and let it guide you.
Serve Others: True purpose emerges in service. It is in giving that you find fulfillment, for seva (selfless service) is the highest expression of love. When you help others, you help yourself to remember the interconnectedness of all beings. It is said that the greatest kings, like Raja Janaka, understood that ruling was not for personal glory but for the upliftment of their people.
Trust in the Flow of Life: Life is a divine dance, and we must trust the rhythm. Sometimes, the path to purpose may seem unclear, but it unfolds as you move through life. Just as the river does not question its journey but flows naturally toward the ocean, so too must you trust in the unfolding of your own life. The right moments, people, and experiences will align when you are ready.
When does one find purpose?
Purpose does not adhere to time; it is a constant evolution. There is no fixed moment. It unfolds as you evolve. In Hindu scriptures, we see how the life of a king or sage is not about one defining moment but a lifetime of realization. Even the great Maharishi Patanjali, who compiled the Yoga Sutras, went through years of silent meditation to uncover the truth.
As you progress on your journey, purpose shifts and transforms. It could start as a small spark - a moment of clarity or an experience that wakes you up. As you grow, it deepens, becoming more aligned with the greater cosmic plan.
So, when will you find purpose? You already have it within you. You find it when you start looking inward, when you embrace the flow of life, and when you let go of expectations. The universe is a mirror, reflecting your true essence. In that reflection, your purpose becomes clearer.
Remember, the moment you stop chasing purpose and begin to live authentically, purpose will chase you.