Relax, there are many meaningful paths in life, not just one. The idea that we must find our one true path and stick to it forever is something many of us grow up believing. Society often reinforces this notion by encouraging us to pursue a structured, clear path, especially in our careers. From a young age, we’re told to decide what we want to be and map out a precise route to get there. But when it comes to personal growth and living a rich, fulfilling life, this rigid approach is misleading.
In fact, I would say that thinking we know our purpose can be naive, as it confines us to our current understanding of ourselves and the world. In reality, life often surprises us with opportunities and experiences we never imagined. Am I right? If we think our life is water, the richness of wine will never be experienced.
The Greek philosopher Heraclitus is on point, saying, “The only constant in life is change.” Yes, I think we need to remain open to life’s changes and adapt as we grow. Spiritual thinkers like to describe life as a passing river, waves that we need to surf.
When life is a shitstorm, make fertilizer.
The greatest minds in history would say that we need to embrace change as a natural part of life’s journey and evolve in the process. I find Vedic tradition interesting. In Vedic thought, dharma isn’t a single, fixed path. It encompasses various duties and responsibilities that change throughout life, depending on circumstances and stages of life. There is personal dharma, which might involve your individual talents and interests, and social dharma, which includes your responsibilities to your family and community.
Rather than stressing over finding a single path, embrace the journey of exploring multiple paths, each offering unique opportunities and lessons. Experiment with new interests and activities. Whether it’s learning a new language, changing careers, or picking up a hobby, each new path can lead to personal growth and discovery. You get the gist.
You don’t need to be adventurous to explore multiple paths. Embrace the changes that come within your own boundaries and comfort zones. Everyone’s journey looks different. For some, this could mean trying a new hobby or meeting new people in their community. For others, it might involve traveling the world or deepening knowledge in a favorite subject.
I think it’s a relief that purpose and passion don’t need to align to live a fulfilling life.
You can work a job that fulfills your purpose and spend your free time pursuing passions that invigorate you. For example, a person might work in finance to provide for their family while pursuing a passion for gardening on the weekends. This balance allows them to thrive in both their career and personal life. Living in one’s Ikigai, where we get paid for our passion, is not necessary for a fulfilling life, as there are multiple paths in life.
Sometimes this is purpose, sometimes that is passion—both keep life meaningful.
