Finding Purpose in Curiosity

In a society that emphasizes the importance of finding one's purpose in life, it can often be extremely isolating to not know one's purpose or feel as though you have more than one purpose.

I certainly felt this way when I sat down one afternoon to figure out my life's purpose. I felt like I was in my last year of high school, trying to figure out what I wanted to do for the rest of my life so that I could choose the right college and degree. I felt so much pressure and anxiety because I couldn't come up with anything. Was there something wrong with me?

But the more I reflected, the more I found myself thinking of my family, friends, past and present colleagues, and the countless people I've met throughout my travels. What was evident was that many of these individuals didn't "figure out" their life's purpose. While some chose a path, either willingly or unwillingly, and stuck with it for a good portion of their life, most changed paths many times throughout their lives, either by choice or circumstance. The more I began noticing this pattern, the more I began to understand a simple truth: purpose evolves over life.

In certain phases of life, our purpose is crystal clear. For instance, during your academic years, your purpose is to complete your education and earn your degree. As a new parent, your purpose revolves around caring for your child and ensuring their well-being.

Yet, there are other times when our purpose isn't as obvious. It's during these moments that self-reflection and following our curiosity become invaluable guides. And right now, this is precisely where I find myself.

Rather than confining myself to one pursuit, I've embraced my sense of curiosity. I used to view my diverse interests as a weakness, as people often advised me to focus on one thing at a time. But why limit ourselves? Life isn't about doing just one thing for the rest of your life. It's about exploring the richness and diversity it offers.

This brings to mind a quote often attributed to Oscar Wilde, which goes, "If you want to be a grocer, or a general, or a politician, or a judge, you will invariably become it; that is your punishment. If you never know what you want to be, if you live what some might call the dynamic life but what I will call the artistic life, if each day you are unsure of who you are and what you know, you will never become anything, and that is your reward."

Following my curiosity means being open to new experiences, ideas, and possibilities. It's about learning, exploring, and discovering. It requires flexibility, adaptability, and creativity. And most importantly, it's about embracing uncertainty and forging our own paths.

This approach has led me to incredible places, introduced me to amazing people, and presented unexpected opportunities. Of course, it hasn't been without its setbacks – there have been failures, mistakes, and disappointments along the way. But through it all, I've felt more alive and fulfilled than ever before.

Ultimately, finding purpose in curiosity is about embracing the beauty of exploration and the joy of lifelong learning. It's about recognizing that our true purpose may not be found in a singular moment of clarity, but rather in the continuous pursuit of knowledge, passion, adventure, and fulfillment. So, let us embrace our curiosity, and in doing so, discover the richness and depth of purposeful living.

For those feeling stuck or uncertain about their life's path, I encourage you to let go of the need to have it all figured out. Instead, embark on the liberating journey of following your curiosities. You never know where they may lead you.

This post was inspired by reflections I had while walking on the trail outside of my home.

With gratitude,

Amin