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As we move through our lives, I think we all want to find a sense of confidence, contentment, and peace.

We all seek meaning.

Most of us worry way too much about if what we are doing with our lives is the “right” thing.

Should I move there? Should I buy that? Will I know my calling? What’s the best use of my time with this?

Our conditioning about our place in the world and who we are “supposed to be” is deeply ingrained. It can be challenging to discern who we really are versus who we think we are and the role we are playing.

The words destiny, purpose, and calling are used in a lot of different contexts and have had many interpretations over the years.

So what is our destiny, our purpose, and our calling? How can we identify them and use them for the truest form of authenticity and fulfillment?

Below, I share some definitions or perspectives and talk about the differences I’ve learned. Everyone has their own definitions of what these concepts feel like. Always listen to what you know to be true for yourself.

Use the below information to inform your journey and help you discern how you want to feel.

What is our destiny?

Think of our destiny as the long view experience of our soul. Because the soul is infinite and eternal, it doesn’t care how long it takes to “reach” its destiny. In short, it can take lifetimes and be comprised of lots and lots of experiences. But there is good news! Our soul will always have its way—whether we recognize that or not. In the end, the soul will have the experiences it came here to have. There is nothing we have to worry about and we can’t miss anything our soul has already chosen. So sit back and enjoy the ride.

What is our purpose?

Our purpose is to be joy and find joy in our everyday experiences. Our purpose is to enjoy the reality and soak up this experience of having a body and knowing ourselves as spiritual beings—as light. Our purpose is to be the light wherever we are—whether we are washing dishes or performing in an opera.

What is our calling?

Our calling is whatever lights us up and helps us live our purpose of joy. Our calling can be a job or career but it doesn’t have to be. It’s the things we do that make us feel the most in our own skin and the most authentic. It can be planting flowers or running a hedge fund. It can be fostering animals or painting a picture. It can be something that pays the bills, but again, it doesn’t have to be. It’s the thing that brings us closest to ourselves and our joy.

Always remember this truth: you are light. Nothing can change that—not a bad day, not a failed relationship, not even your perception of what you think you have done wrong.

Nothing can turn off the light inside of you.

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