Why?
My Personal Lighthouse in a Sea of Uncertainty
Hi dear friend.
Why?
Why do we do what we do? Why do we feel what we feel? And why, oh why, do we get utterly lost when our why isn't strong and clear?
I just came back from a trip where I met people from paths of lives that I normally don’t have around me. They were super nice and interesting people with pockets so deep you cannot see the end of it. It was a beautiful and very luxurious experience. And as I was in it, watching, listening and taking it all in, I wondered; is having a strong and clear Why for yourself, the code of human motivation?
The way I see it, is that we all have our different whys. The amazing peoples’ (whom I met on my trip) whys, is to make billions of money. Why they want that, I have no idea. But I know that it is a strong why for many in this world, and I get it. It’s super comfortable and it comes with a bunch of freedom on many levels.
People's whys refer to their underlying motivations, reasons, or purposes for their actions, beliefs and decision making. These drivers are deeply rooted in individual experiences, values, aspirations and perspectives. One of the remarkable aspects of human nature, is the vast diversity of these whys across individuals. The reasons that compel one person to pursue a certain path in life can be completely different from those that motivate another person, even when they are faced with similar circumstances.
Now what about our feelings and emotions – those colourful, messy, and utterly bewildering companions in our lives? Have you ever wondered why you suddenly burst into tears, while watching a puppy reel? Or why sight of coriander makes you cringe? It's all about the Why!
I like to delve into the mysteries of our why and also see that life isn't always about having the answers, but about the adventure of exploration. Our why isn't just a fleeting thought, it's a North Star that keeps us grounded when life's storms threaten to sweep us away. When you know why you're doing what you're doing, suddenly that spreadsheet you're working on becomes a vital step toward your dream of, for instance, opening a bakery that specializes in Buddha-shaped croissants.
What happens when we lose it?
We've all been there – standing at the crossroads of confusion, peering into the abyss of uncertainty, wondering why we're even here. Our why, that guiding star, has momentarily flickered into the cosmic void, leaving us feeling like a GPS without a signal.
A strong Why anchors us, so let’s find it
So what is the answer? Well, first off, let's lighten up! The way I see it is that Life is a playground, and our whys are the swing sets that keep us soaring.
I like to ask myself questions that tickles my curiosity. Why do I love my morning cup of tea so much? Why do I get such a thrill from sunsets (I have thousands of sunset photos)? Why does the sound of a baby's laughter turn my heart into a marshmallow? These questions might not be life changing, yet still they are great to look at and feel.
A better example: Some time ago I found myself tangled in a web of procrastination, unsure why I was avoiding a project I'd been passionate about. It was as if my why had been smothered by the weight of distractions, doubt and honestly, some laziness.
But here's the magic; the moment I rediscovered my strong and clear why, which initially sparked my enthusiasm, everything changed. Suddenly, the project wasn't just an item on my to-do list, it was my passion and way forward. My purpose and why became a shield against procrastination's sneaky snares.
Crafting a clear Why
So, how do you ensure your why stays strong and clear? I thinks of it as tending to my garden of intentions – it requires nurturing and attention. Start by asking yourself; what lights up my soul? What fuels my enthusiasm even on the greyest of days?
Once you know your strong and clear "why," hold it close. Let it be your personal lighthouse in a sea of uncertainty. Align your actions with your purpose, and watch as the mundane transforms into the extraordinary.
You are the author of your story, and your Why is the ink that colours its pages with purpose.
Until next week, stay curious and grateful.
Much love and light,
Kim
Thanks for this Kim, very well put. I read it in the middle of the night and it rings true.
I have always been driven by other 'why's' , and have never understood those who are driven exclusively by a relatively empty imperative.
I'm reminded of this a lot now, where I am. Many many salt of the earth, but those who have 'made it' monetarily just don't seem like they can enjoy a moment. It's sad sometimes.
I admire excellence and if that brings you $$ success, all the better. But, I think excellence in a pursuit that fills your cup is our best guide.
Thanks Kim. Please say hey to Ole. Neil.
Everything in life seems to stem from what we were taught as children! Until we start asking the WHY of what we were taught, we remain enclosed in that confining box! Here's to unmasking the WHYS!!