Recently, I tuned in to an NPR Fresh Air interview featuring Colman Domingo, where he discussed his role in the new musical adaptation of The Color Purple with Terry Gross. What caught my attention was Colman’s reflection on his character, Mister. He pointed out that Mister is the central character without a song, and he pondered on the psychological impact of lacking a means to express oneself from the heart and mind. What does it mean to be without a song?
This notion resonated with me, drawing parallels to my work as a life, leadership, and executive coach. In my conversations with clients, the pivotal discussions often revolve around confronting challenges and making significant decisions. Frequently, the core questions involve acknowledging one’s true desires and overcoming obstacles to reach a point of decisive action. This journey encompasses recognizing personal passions, leveraging individual strengths in meaningful ways, and contemplating values to establish goals and intentions. It’s really an exercise in finding one’s purpose.
I undertake this process annually with my clients and I do it myself. It proves to be a powerful, insightful, and vulnerable endeavor that is undeniably worthwhile.
Moreover, I emphasize the significance of practicing gratitude as a tool to focus on the positive aspects of life and derive meaning from experiences. Discovering one’s purpose is an ongoing journey rather than a fixed destination. It’s perfectly acceptable not to have everything figured out immediately. Take the time to reflect on your priorities, keep an open mind, and embrace the uncertainty of the journey – you never know where it might lead you.
MINDFUL MOMENTS
- As we head into the darkest time of the year, use each day to reflect, dig deep and learn something about yourself. Here are just a few good questions to help you get started. (also posting on WY Mindful Mindset daily on Facebook)
- What was your biggest win this year?
- Where are you holding a grudge?
- What did you worry about this year, and how did that turn out?
- What fed your soul this year?
- How did you change this year?
- What do you need to let go?
- To whom do you need to offer loving kindness?
- Where do you need to establish a boundary?
- How are you out of alignment with your core values?
- How did fear hold you back this year?
2023 Year-End Reflections (PDF)
Circle your level of satisfaction for each category and then connect them with a line from circle to circle. Now, pay attention to where the line dips – perhaps that is where you can set some goals for the new year.
