The Meaning of Life? What does it mean to you? How would you define the meaning of life? This may seem like an easy question to answer, but in truth, it’s one that many people struggle to figure out. Our search for what gives our lives purpose and meaning has been ongoing since humans have been around on this planet. Even with the advent of technology, new questions arise about how to live in a way that makes sense and satisfies our deepest needs. For me, that search began when I was young and has spanned decades of my life so far.
What is your reason for being?
Many people spend their lives in search of a reason to live, not finding an answer that feels satisfactory. When I was a child, my family lived in Belgrade, Serbia; I grew up during Slobodan Milosevic’s presidency and saw first-hand what corrupt government can do to a country. Growing up under those circumstances left an indelible mark on me; no matter where life takes me or what happens along the way, helping others find their sense of purpose is always at the top of my list. This passion is also why I created Gurulex Consulting Group –– so we can help organizations find value in doing good and create lasting change in society by staying on track with their purpose.
Our fate was decided before we were born
We have no control over our destiny. Our purpose is to walk a path that was laid out before we came into existence. The only thing that matters is what we choose to do with that path once it is given to us. Choosing our own path leads to suffering, and choosing someone else’s path leads to mediocrity. The only way not to suffer or be mediocre is by living a life with true purpose and meaning… but how do you discover your life’s true meaning? Read on… This post contains my personal story about how I discovered my purpose in life and what changed in my mindset so dramatically as a result.
Are you prepared for death?
One thing we know about our universe is that it has an expiration date: The universe will eventually stop expanding and collapse in on itself, perhaps even starting over in another Big Bang. This means that you, me, and all living beings will die one day. What most people don’t realize, however, is how unprepared they are for such an event—either emotionally or financially. In my quest to find meaning in life I learned just how unprepared most people are when it comes to planning their final chapter. One of my big takeaways from years of research into what makes a meaningful life was that being prepared for your eventual death might be one of the biggest contributing factors to a fulfilling and happy existence. But what does that mean?
Comparing yourself to others
When I started learning to program, I’d go on Facebook and compare myself to others. They look like they’re further along than me. Should I be further along than them? Do they know something that I don’t? Why am I not there yet? Am I bad at it? Will it take me forever to get good at programming or should it be easier because of how smart and dedicated to my craft that I am? Negative self-talk is never productive, but when you feel like you’re not progressing as fast as other people seem to be, it can feel almost crippling.
Taking responsibility for what happens
Regardless of our beliefs about what happens after we die, it’s important to take responsibility for our actions here and now. Gurulex thinks that what happens after we die is almost irrelevant in terms of how we should live life now. He argues that by taking responsibility for our own lives, we can start living life on our own terms instead of letting things happen to us. It’s an empowering view, but he admits that not everyone agrees with him. In fact, many people believe that fate or God will handle their affairs in some fashion when they die.
Being proactive
I try to be proactive in everything I do. Most people won’t ask you to take that first step or make that first call, so it’s up to you to be aggressive and do it yourself. People love taking credit for success but rarely want to own their failures, which means if you want something done you may have to be willing get your hands dirty and start doing it. If there is a problem in your life, chances are there is a way around it; that path won’t necessarily be easy, but at least you will know how hard you have worked toward overcoming your challenges.
