Good day, Purposeful Hearts! What a ride it’s been as we’re creating your personal vision statement! Can you even handle the excitement? We’re really letting the momentum build one week at a time, and this week is no exception. So, collect your list of passions, your personal values, your Six Dimension of Wellness goals, and a new blank page. Here we go!
Today we’re asking two of my very favorite deep-conversation-starting questions! For some background, I’ve been celebrating New Year’s Eve with the same couple since 2004, and we make a point of asking these questions over dinner. I’ve found these conversations to be some of the most thought-provoking and personally inspiring conversations I’ve ever had. Intrigued?
The first question is this: If money were no object and you knew you couldn’t fail, what would you do with your life? Ah yes, we’re throwing practicality out the window for a few moments, but the revealing nature of this question is worth the temporary suspension of reality. You see, we often let fear prevent us from stepping toward what we really dream of doing in life. Fear, you ask? Yep. We fear the risk that comes with threatening a steady salary, and you know that most people have a fear of failure. So, this question lifts the limitations that come with safe thinking for a while and seeks to expose your deepest longings. Just go with it and let your brain relax into this free-thinking exercise. If you’re hesitant, try setting a timer for five minutes and forcing yourself to write or type your responses to this big life question nonstop until the timer sounds. And . . . go!
If you need to take an emotional lap after that exercise, go for it. Stretch your legs and come right back for part two!
Our second question also cuts deep: As your life is drawing to a close, what would you regret not having done or accomplished? Oooh, that’s a thinker. This is the kind of question that prompts the creation of bucket lists. But it also sparks a sense of urgency (or at least a bit of determination) with respect to what you know deep down you should be doing with your time of grace on this earth. OK, time for you to start brainstorming!
I find that these types of questions keep me accountable to my God-given purpose and lead me into prayerful reflection about my passions, my longings . . . and my fears. What an important step in the process of creating your vision! Don’t be intimidated by these questions; jump on in and treat it like a fun thought adventure. See you next week for the final installment of this series!
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