People find purpose when they can achieve self actualization.
I found purpose by letting go. I let go of the things I thought I needed to own. I let go of preconcieved notions, like what my parents expected me to become or what status my career meant.
On a personal note, what really pushed me in the right direction, is that I discovered positive reinforcement training for my animals. It was really hard for me to totally give up punishments, corrections, or yelling. Our society teaches aggression and manipulation. Once I finally broke throght that and trained using only postive things, a lightbulb went off in my head. I don't ever have to be in control or pushy or aggressive. I could just LET GO. It was so liberating! And to get great results with the animasl using this approach proved I could still get the goals I wanted. Then I starting using it towards people, in relationships, and internally.
I found happiness when my life swang back into balance. I could do things for myself and not feel guitly, but I also did selfless acts of charity towards others. I learned how to GIVE a compliment. Now I make a point to give at least a few compliments a day, and I can find something good about everyone I meet.
Feeling content and balanced opened me up to trying new things (and really absorbing the entireity of the new experience). I am willing to take the path less travelled. You never know where life might take you!
Life is a journey, not a destination.
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