I recently presented to a group of executives about my school and how we are approaching secondary education. The meeting went extremely well but an overwhelming thought was evident on their faces as if to say, "why exactly do you do what you do?" As a layman who has four kids and a busy schedule, they wanted to know what lay beneath the surface. They wanted to find out what makes me tick.
Great question!
It's the question that we all need to ask from time to time- why do you do what you do? In other words, what's motivating you right now?
Richard Rohr has something to say about this as he frames the discussion in light of one's "why" for getting up in the morning.
Why do you do what you do? It might be for any of the following reasons:
- to make more money
- to afford a larger home
- to get a new car
- to climb the corporate ladder
- to make a difference
- to make the best use of your gifts and talents
The most successful people are clear on why they do what they do. They find it easier to say yes to the right opportunities and no to the wrong ones. Their careers look impressive because they are impressive people, resolute on their life's purpose.
As I write this, it's the final few weeks of December, 2015, the perfect time to reflect and discern your "why". Know your why and your way will become more and more clear.