Have you ever felt like there's more to life than what you're currently doing? Do you find yourself questioning your path and wondering if you're truly fulfilling your purpose? You're not alone.
In this article, we'll explore the importance of finding your purpose and share insights from a fascinating interview with Traci Schubert Barrett, an expert in helping individuals discover their true calling.
**This was also a podcast episode (episode #210. Use the player below if you'd prefer to listen to this message.
Why Finding Your Purpose Matters In Entrepreneurship
Before we dive into the interview with Traci, let's take a moment to understand why finding your purpose is so essential. Your purpose is like your life's compass, guiding you towards a fulfilling and meaningful existence. Without a sense of purpose, you may feel lost, unfulfilled, and uncertain about your direction in life.
Most of us think about setting goals but have you sat down to truly define was success means for you, specifically?
This is something I realized I hadn't done and it eventually led to me writing my book, Why Not You? An Accidental Entrepreneur's Guide To Success as well as a free resource on how to define success.
Without understanding what this means for us individually, we end up on an endless pursuit of what we think we want or what others tell us we "should" want. Traci even broke this down further by talking about how different generations have defined and measured success.
Defining Success Over The Decades
Traci delves into the intriguing topic of how different generations perceive success. From the safety and security sought by our parents' generation to the 'money is everything' mantra of her own generation, she sheds light on the evolving definitions of success. Today, fame often takes center stage, which can be detrimental to our mental well-being.
People raised in the depression - success was about security
People raised later - success was about money
People raised today - success is about fame
Of course these are general statements but it all stems from what society is talking about overall and how it plays into what we desire. It's critical to dig deeper and ask yourself the questions to understand how you define success and how you're currently measuring your success overall.
"What is it that you're designed to do? And what does that have to do with the metrics you're measuring yourself against?" - Traci Schubert Barrett
"How are we measuring ourselves and are these measurements wise?" - Traci Schubert Barrett
The Impact Of Social Media On Our Perceptions Of Success
In our fast-paced world, we're bombarded with messages of success, often shaped by the influence of social media. Traci Schubert Barrett highlights the challenges faced by entrepreneurs and leaders in today's digital age. The constant pressure to amass followers and promote oneself can distract us from what truly matters: building a meaningful life.
Success should not be defined by external metrics or social media popularity. It's essential to look inward and align your goals with your true purpose.
The Power Of The Pause Button To Find Your Purpose As An Entrepreneur
Traci and I discuss the importance of hitting the pause button in life. This pause can be a result of a life-altering event, such as a layoff, or a deliberate choice to step back and reflect. Traci emphasizes the significance of giving yourself the gift of space and time to answer essential questions like, "What do I want?"
During her days at HGTV she found herself wondering 'what if there's more' so she asked "what am I missing?"
When she started her own company, instead of looking at the competition, she asked "what do I want to create?"
By pausing to truly reflect on what she wanted in her life she has been able to have multiple successful careers and overall a happier and more fulfilling life.
Hitting pause in life can be transformative. It allows you to reassess your priorities, goals, and ultimately discover your true purpose.
"Embrace the pause." - Traci Schubert Barrett
The Framework For Finding Your Purpose As An Entrepreneur
Traci's approach to helping individuals find their purpose is structured and effective. She encourages people to identify their priorities and assess how well their current actions align with these priorities. By taking a closer look at your life's various facets, you can gain clarity on what truly matters.
Step 1: Ask yourself these questions
"Ask yourself, what is missing?"
"What are your priorities?"
"What are the most important things in my life?"
Step 2: Reflect on your list
When you look at the list, ask yourself if you're living in accordance to your list?
"You need to have balance. You need to create a live where you have your priorities in order and make living." - Traci Schubert Barrett
"You need to give yourself the gift and the space to pause...and ask what do I want and how do I get there?" - Traci Schubert Barrett
"Our identity is resting in something, you just have to ask yourself what it is and is it the right thing" - Traci Schubert Barrett
Take Away Message / Action
In a world filled with distractions and external pressures, finding your purpose can be a transformative experience. As Traci shared, hitting the pause button in life is crucial for self-reflection and aligning your actions with your priorities.
Your next step is to start to uncover your purpose.
Start by asking yourself the important questions Traci recommends: What do you want? What truly matters to you?
By taking the time to explore these questions, you can begin your journey toward a life that's more fulfilling, intentional, and aligned with your true purpose.
Remember, your purpose may evolve over time, and that's perfectly okay. The key is to stay attuned to your inner desires and make choices that lead you toward a life that feels meaningful and purposeful.
In Traci's words, "Embrace the pause, make something out of it, and create a life that's significant, meaningful, present, awake, and engaged."
And until next time give yourself permission to know what you truly desire in life and grace along the way. I'll talk to you soon.
About Traci:
Traci Schubert Barrett is a best-selling author, international speaker, business owner, and podcast host. She is the President & Founder of Navigate the Journey, a business consulting firm that comes alongside entrepreneurial companies helping them scale their businesses and build healthy teams and leaders. She was also one of the founders of the wildly popular national cable television network HGTV. She enjoyed the amazing ride of taking a fledgling idea and turning it into a billion-dollar media empire. She spent over 20 years in the television industry before taking the leap of faith to create a new path. She writes about that journey in her new book, What If There’s More? Finding Significance Beyond Success.
Traci's Resources:
Personal Website: www.tracischubertbarrett.com
Business Website: www.navigatethejourney.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tracisbarrett/
Other Resources Mentioned:
Resilient Business Planning Live Sessions: https://www.amandamckinney.com/2024
All podcast episodes: https://pod.link/1473751874
Amanda's Coaching Options: https://www.amandamckinney.com/coaching
Amanda's Book: https://www.amandamckinney.com/book
"Our identity is resting in something, you just have to ask yourself what it is and is it the right thing"
- Traci Schubert Barrett
Add Another Book To Your To-Read List!
Combine Traci's inspiring message about finding your vision with my message about defining and pursuing your definition of success and you'll be unstoppable!
Use the link below to grab your copy today!