MondayBlues:Purpose Of Life

From childhood, society layers us with expectations. The toy stethoscopes and NASA shirts we receive as gifts subtly nudge us towards predefined paths. As teenagers, we face the daunting decision of choosing our future careers, and this continues into adulthood, where even our bosses push us to choose specific professional routes. But is this really the way to find fulfillment?

The truth is, much of life's beauty comes from the journey, not just the destination. Like reaching the summit of a mountain, you may find that the real joy lies in the varied landscapes you navigated along the way. This perspective echoes Carl Jung's(Swiss psychiatrist and psychoanalyst) idea of "individuation" in the second half of life. It’s a phase where we shift from chasing externally imposed goals to embracing our entire selves, including the parts we previously ignored or hid, our "shadow" selves deemed unacceptable by societal standards.

As we mature, our relationships and careers begin to reflect this inner change. The need for external approval gives way to a desire for deeper connections and more meaningful pursuits. Success is no longer about promotions and pay raises but finding a purpose that resonates with our core values. This shift might mean choosing a career that aligns more closely with these values, even at the expense of material comforts.

Facing your shadow, confronting your mortality, and integrating different aspects of your personality can be challenging. However, overcoming the dominance of the ego, which might have served you well earlier, becomes crucial. This transformation allows for more profound relationships, personal growth, and a definition of success based on contributions to something larger than oneself, leading to true satisfaction and fulfillment.

As you start your week, remember that it’s never too late to redefine what success means to you. Break away from the world’s expectations and forge a path that aligns with your deepest desires. After all, the most fulfilling journeys are those where we navigate our own course.