Find Your Purpose: 3 Steps to Self-Recognition

Hello, reader! I’m so happy you decided to read this article. I feel like now that I am about to turn 38, I am finally in the right place, doing what I was always meant to do. Let’s get into it!

We all tell ourselves "if I knew what I know today when I was younger, I'd be in a different place.” Woulda Coulda Shoulda.

At what point in our lives do we finally take into consideration all the wisdom we have gained, all the experiences we have had, and examine what our true purpose is? We need to take a close look at our life to do these.

1. Find themes.

Is there something you really excel at? Has it been pointed out to you that you have a particular talent that others appreciate and find helpful? Do you do this thing often? What is it? Here’s how I found my theme:

In all my previous careers - I was helping someone through communication. Here are some examples:

- In my youth, I volunteered at a retirement home. I would visit with residents, play cards, and help take residents to and from the dining hall. 

- After college, here are the jobs I had:

I was an editor for television and film. I put stories together for others to learn or enjoy.

In the past when I worked for Apple, I taught people how to use their computers, troubleshoot technical issues, and contributed ideas for projects. This allowed others to communicate better through what they needed to do via technology.

At my job at a radio station, I created programs to get the message out on community events, told stories of artists, authors, and musicians, and I created awareness of cultural diversity by interviewing people of different backgrounds, religious beliefs, and more to a large listening audience. I also taught students these skills.

What am I doing writing this? Oooohhhhh. Communicating and helping. Gotcha, Universe.

2. Find what you love.

Are there things that you really enjoy doing? Are these things you can see yourself continuing to learn more about and do you get excited about sharing these interests with others? If so, take a look at those. I did!

For me, the real epiphany came after having been featured a couple of times in newspaper articles about my own health journey, then through teaching belly dance class, and again from others asking to work out with me.

My first personal trainer, David Ryan, really sealed the deal. He showed me just how rewarding life can be when we transform ourselves and take charge of our health. My coaching was online with him. David effectively communicated with me principles and methods, and I wanted to know more.

I started researching articles, nutrition, workouts, anything health-related. I could spend hours in a grocery store pouring over labels. I would investigate the living heck out of products, fitness gear, and supplements.

Through that and working out, I was inspiring others to be the best they can be in health and happiness without even trying, it seemed. As I became even more fit, people wanted to know what I was doing. I wanted to be able to help others like David helped me, so I became a personal trainer, which I love!

After that, I pursued an online diploma in nutrition. Then I found a job with Miracle Noodle, where I can communicate with others and help them with their health journey. Boom! We have come full circle. It only took till the later part of my 30’s. LOL.

3. Listen to the universe.

The World, God, a larger power, pointed me in the right direction repeatedly, to the point it was blatant.

“Teri, you should help people be the best they can by spreading messages of hope, showing care, taking time to communicate, educate, and train people. No, go lift some stuff!” 

Aye aye, Captain!

I have been given a gift and an opportunity to share what I am passionate about. When things finally clicked and all the likes, loves, and positive feedback lined up, I was able happy to have found my purpose. Help, communicate, inspire.

What is the universe telling you? I want to know! Get a journal out and carry it with you so when you recognize a pattern, you can take note. It might surprise you!

Teri Tenseth Market is a Certified Personal Trainer and has a Diploma in Nutrition. She is also the Social Media Manager for Miracle Noodle.