Who & What

Who? What? Why? When? Where? This is what we are taught growing up as the five essential concepts for a good paper. However, in life, there are two that are the most important to know about ourselves and what we are called to do to move forward in life. It is essential to know what we want and why we want it. Everything else requires trust and divine guidance in order to move forward. These questions delve into our understanding of ourselves and the purpose we serve, propelling us forward in life.

This was a common struggle for me during my youth and in my 20s. I found myself lost, unsure of who I truly was, and lacking a clear sense of direction for my future. Without this self-awareness, it became challenging to navigate through life and make informed decisions during this transformative period.

I vividly recall feeling envious of those who seemed to have it all figured out, with a clear sense of purpose and direction in their lives. Their certainty made me yearn for the same level of clarity and direction. However, my journey took a different course, resembling a game of “Chutes and Ladders” with unexpected twists and turns along the way.

Each step I took was an opportunity for self-discovery, and while it may have felt uncertain and challenging at times, it allowed me to uncover hidden talents, passions, and aspirations. Embracing the unexpected, I learned to adapt and find joy in the journey itself rather than solely focusing on reaching a specific destination.

Looking back, I now appreciate the unique path I traveled. It was through those twists and turns that I gained a deeper understanding of myself, my values, and what truly mattered to me. This self-discovery process not only shaped who I am today but also provided me with a strong foundation to chart a fulfilling and purposeful life moving forward.

In my 30s, which some might consider a late bloomer, I had a significant breakthrough in discovering my true self. This revelation came with the birth of my daughter, as becoming a parent brought forth a newfound sense of purpose and self-awareness. However, despite this profound personal growth, I found myself still operating under the influence of external expectations and following a path that didn’t align with my authentic self. As a result, I experienced feelings of frustration and overall dissatisfaction with my life.

This realization marked a turning point in my life. I began to question the choices I had made and the direction I was heading in. I recognized that I needed to align my actions and decisions with my true identity and values. It was a transformative process of introspection, self-reflection, and exploration.

As I delved deeper into understanding who I truly was, I discovered new passions, talents, and dreams that had long been buried beneath the surface. I embraced the idea that my journey was not just about being a mother but also about fulfilling my own potential and living a life that was true to myself.

Through this process of self-discovery, I not only found my own path but also gained the confidence and clarity to pursue it. I became aware of the power of authenticity and the importance of aligning my actions with my true desires and aspirations. This newfound sense of purpose and fulfillment not only benefited me but also allowed me to provide my daughter with a role model who was genuinely living her life to the fullest.

Today, in my 50s, I am firm and nonnegotiable. I truly understand the difference between joy and happiness, and by living in alignment, I can help not only my daughter but others elevate and step into their divine purpose. It all starts with answering the question what do I want, and why do I want it?

Sharon