I borrowed the title from the beautiful “A life of one’s own” by M. Milner published in 1934 and today difficult to find. The book is the result of a meticulous “recording” of Milner’s introspection over a period of seven years.
This is a passage I truly love and that, today, seems relevant and a cautionary message in a society so “focused on purpose”.
“I had been continually exhorted to define my purpose in life, but I was now beginning to doubt whether life might not be too complex a thing to be kept within the bounds of a single formulated purpose, … So I began to have an idea of my life, not as the slow shaping of achievement to fit my preconceived purposes, but as the gradual discovery and growth of a purpose which I did not know. I wrote: “It will mean walking in a fog for a bit, but it’s the only way which is not a presumption, forcing the self into a theory.”
The real purpose of life (and ours too, as part of life) is evolution. We mistake purpose with our jobs but when we connect with life’s evolution (which is not only growth) we realise that our true purpose is to be fully alive. Pay attention to what brings you alive and play with it.
Tap into your life force. Be curious, use your imagination and intuition. Engage in a dialogue that goes beyond planning and hustling, it might surprise you with an a-ha moment. We are so focused on looking outside of us for answers that, we have forgotten that our bodies, our hearts have something to say and know things that guide us closer to our “purpose”.
In name of finding purpose, we often default to analysis rather than expression. Expression, and self-expression are not only for "artists and creatives" they are at the core of our fundamental human needs. We all have this need and have to find ways to fulfil it to prosper and thrive. When we cannot fulfil it we try to impress rather than express. Can we learn, through self-expression, to make space for others also to self-express and evolve together (without the need of forcing the self into theory)?
We learn about ourselves by expressing the core, the most intimate parts of ourselves and, by engaging in the creation of a narrative/language (an original and unique language to us) to express ourselves.
“There is simply nothing that transforms your life as much as Self-Expression. Consciously open yourself to share your truth” D. Maniar
Can you journey artistically into your own expression? What will you discover?
My invitation to you is to learn how to express from the intimate essence at the core of your being. Embody the Artful Mindset and explore different possibilities:
UNLOCK THE ARTFUL MINDSET - Creativity is innate to us. A series of simple invitations to help you explore the key concepts and practices to unlock the artful mindset. IT'S FREE
FORGET START UP & ART-UP - Immerse yourself in a learning experience that transcends the ordinary. Engage in lively explorations, vibrant dialogues, and hands-on assignments that breathe life into your ideas. Download the brochure here.
THE MAVERICK'S PALETTE - An extraordinary opportunity to infuse your entrepreneurial spirit with the colours of creativity. It is not just a course; it's a journey of self-discovery and innovation. Let your journey as an artful entrepreneur begin here.
If you’re interested in learning more about my services and would like to discuss any consultancy, workshops, talks, please reach out.
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