Dr. Edris N.Omondi (Advocate)
In the course of our lives, we encounter countless paths and possibilities, yet not all of us are destined to walk the same journey. It’s easy to fall into the trap of believing that everyone should follow the same blueprint — particularly in a society like ours, where many are conditioned to pursue a career based on academic qualifications or chase financial success as the ultimate measure of purpose. But the truth is, we all carry unique graces and gifts, and discovering our true purpose lies in embracing what makes us different.
The Fallacy of a One-Size-Fits-All Purpose
The world has witnessed individuals like Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston, Steve Jobs, Jack Ma, or even Oprah Winfrey among many — each one exceptional in their own way. Michael Jackson’s voice wasn’t just trained; it was a gift that spoke to millions. Personally, I grew up moonwalking believing I had his gifting, Similarly, Whitney Houston’s vocal prowess reached heights that many could only dream of. These icons didn’t become who they were through sheer effort alone; they tapped into unique gifts that set them apart. But how many of us truly recognize that we, too, carry unique gifts, different from those around us? We have been in the same plane, but destined differently. Too often, we overlook the reality that education is not the gift itself, but the tool that sharpens our potential. We go through school systems, acquire qualifications, but still wrestle with the question, “What is my purpose in life?”
The Struggle with Purpose
This confusion is not an isolated truth — it’s universal. Across the globe, many of us struggle to pinpoint why we are here and what we are meant to contribute. In our societies, this struggle is magnified by societal expectations, where success is often equated with wealth and power. Politicians and those in positions of authority are frequently revered as the epitome of success, creating the desire of become one too. But this mentality is limiting. The pressure to follow a particular career path, driven by money and status, creates a disconnect from our true purpose, which is often not tied to wealth but to fulfillment through service, passion, and authenticity.
The case of the Albanian decent Agnes Gonxha Bojaxhiu-Mother Teresa who settled miles away in Calcutta India, to serve in a strange community and found deep satisfaction in community service is an excellent example of how purpose isn’t always defined by the title or degree we hold. She discovered a fulfilling life in serving others — much like the story told in the book The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari, where the main character shifts from a materialistic, high-powered lifestyle to one of service and spiritual fulfilment. It’s a reminder that many of us, despite our academic accolades or social positions, are still searching for deeper meaning in our lives.
The Dangers of Living Without Purpose
The unfortunate reality is that many people live without ever discovering their true calling. They may go through the motions of life, achieving academic success or climbing the corporate ladder, only to feel a gnawing emptiness inside. As the saying goes, “The grave is the richest treasure chest” — so many pass away without ever having understood what their true purpose was. Tragically, this happens because people are distracted by the allure of material comforts, never questioning whether they are living in alignment with their inner calling.
In contrast, individuals like Tom Mboya, the remarkable Kenyan politician, exemplify the idea that purpose doesn’t always require formal education. Mboya, a leading figure in Kenya’s struggle for independence, did not hold a secondary certificate or a university degree, yet he was driven by a profound sense of purpose. Similarly, in Luo culture, there’s a concept of “Juogi ili,” which refers to the belief that one’s path in life is guided by ancestral spirits, pushing you toward your destiny — a metaphorical reminder that purpose is often deeper than academic or material success.
Finding Your Purpose: How to Rediscover Your Factory Setting
So, how can we find our purpose? How can we get back to our “factory setting,” as some would say, to rediscover why we are here?
1. Embrace Your Unique Gifts, acknowledge that you are not meant to be anyone else. Just as Michael Jackson couldn’t replicate someone else’s dance moves, you cannot follow someone else’s path to fulfilment. Instead of trying to meet the expectations of others, reflect on what excites you, what feels effortless, and what you naturally excel at. Your unique gifts may not always be obvious — they often emerge when you start following your passion.
2. Let Go of Societal Expectations, while it’s important to have ambition, do not fall into the trap of thinking that your purpose is simply tied to financial success or prestige. Many people who’ve achieved great wealth or status often report feeling unfulfilled because they neglected their true purpose in the process. Take the example of Oprah Winfrey, who struggled early in life but ultimately found purpose in her role as a storyteller and motivator. She chose to follow her own path rather than conform to external pressures.
3. Serve Others and Reflect on Your Impact Often, purpose is revealed when we step outside of our own desires and focus on making a positive impact on others. Community service, helping others, or simply being present in someone’s life can provide immense clarity. Much like the mother Teresa,-turned-community volunteer mentioned earlier, we must ask ourselves: How can I be of service to others? What legacy do I want to leave behind?
4. Trust the Process, It’s important to recognize that purpose doesn’t always come easily, and it often requires patience. As seen in the stories of Steve Jobs and Jack Ma, they did not know their exact path at the start but discovered it through trial and error. Life is an ongoing journey, and sometimes, you only uncover your purpose when you are actively pursuing something with passion and dedication.
5. Look Inward for Guidance, whether you connect to spirituality, religion, or meditation, looking inward for guidance can be incredibly powerful. The quiet moments of reflection can help you listen to your heart and soul, revealing the path that is uniquely meant for you.
Conclusion: The Importance of Embracing Your Purpose
Rediscovering your purpose in life is not about following the crowds or chasing societal ideals. It is about looking inward, recognizing your unique gifts, and following the path that resonates with your true self. Society may encourage certain careers or ways of life, but fulfilment comes from aligning your work and life with your innermost passions and desires.
By rediscovering our purpose, we honour the uniqueness within us all and embrace the fulfilment that comes from contributing to the world in our own special way. It’s never too late to find your purpose, and for those who have yet to do so, remember — the richest treasures are not found in gold or titles but in the peace and satisfaction that comes from living a life aligned with your true calling.
