If Failure or Money Were Not Issues, What Would You Do?

Many of us do not go after the things we really want because we have a fear of not getting them, or that we could not make a living doing a certain type of job. By never starting, we insulate ourselves from the disappointment of ‘’failure.’’ A great way of figuring out what you want to do in life is to ask yourself what career or path you would pursue if you were guaranteed success.

What Do People Compliment You On or Say You Are Good At?

I believe we are all born with a specific purpose and our natural talents are a clue to what that purpose is. Do people tell you that you are good at certain things or compliment you in certain areas? Maybe if you give really good advice, you would find satisfaction in therapy or life coaching. If you have a great sense of style and love putting together unique outfits, maybe you would enjoy a career in fashion.

What Do You Enjoy Doing in Your Free Time?

What you like to do in your free time speaks volumes about your passions. You do not have to relegate the things you love to the realm of hobbies, thinking that the fun stuff and work are mutually exclusive concepts.

What Do You Like Learning About?

The things that pique your interest and make you want to learn about them even if you are not obligated to for work or school reasons are great starting points for figuring out what you want to do in life. Devoting your life to what interests you will likely result in a satisfying career and sense of purpose.

If You Could Teach Something, What Would it Be?

Think about all the things that interest you. Which ones would you find pleasure in educating others about? This is a strong clue to what type of work you would enjoy and find fulfilling.

What Things Make You Feel Happy and Good About Yourself?

One of the reasons we strive to live a purposeful life is because we want to feel good about ourselves and be happy. Think about the things that make you feel good and happy—they can get you on the path to the life you really want to live. Do you enjoy solving problems? Do you enjoy helping others and giving them advice? Do you like making things look more beautiful?

In What Areas Do People Seek Your Counsel?

We are all good at different things and we need to rely on others for help in our weaker areas. When people approach you for help, what are seeking from you? Advice? Technical knowledge? Childcare advice? They are asking because you know your stuff in this area and you would probably be very successful professionally.

What Would You Regret Not Doing at the End of Your Life?

Looking at your life now and the things you want to do, be or have, what would you regret never doing? Anything on that list is something that is obviously near and dear to your heart and you should work it into your life somehow.

What Do You Value in Life?

Really taking the time to examine our values and what is important to us is a powerful strategy for figuring out our life purpose and what would give our existence meaning. Once you figure these things out, it is easier to choose a path because you will have a clear idea of what you need to do.

What Causes or Beliefs Do You Feel Strongly About?

Causes and beliefs that you feel strongly about can help you identify a life path that will allow you to live these beliefs and contribute to these causes. If you feel strongly about the welfare of children for example, a career working with disadvantaged children may be very fulfilling for you.

Kelli Cooper is a freelance writer who enjoys producing content that helps people find greater success in their personal and professional lives. If going back to school is part of fulfilling your life’s purpose, check out GetARealDegree for information on online degrees and traditional degree programs.

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