While sharing a rooftop drink with a best friend, the topics of purpose, peace, and success were in deep dissection. I lamented my recent frustration with how ambiguous purpose feels at times. We questioned what metrics were in play beneath the surface; what would cause that sense of purpose to be so fleeting? Then, my friend said the following:
"It makes sense...simply doing more isn't fulfilling; it's not about quantity of achievement, but quality. Impact is personal."
I'd not thought about it that way before, and I'm still pretty shook. So often I conflate my purpose with the tools used to actuate it. Instead of making good on the fundamental purpose we all share—to love and be loved—I subconsciously make it about producing enough work, forwarding personal projects, etc.
The problem is that when the tool becomes the purpose itself, success and peace hinge on producing "enough." But because the tool has become both the means and end, there is nothing beyond it to inform when “enough” is met.
Instead, impact is personal and within relationships. My creative ventures are just one means of expressing that purpose, but they're not the only way. Every friend made, every person encouraged, every enlightening conversation has been as real of impact as I could ever hope to be a part of.
Anyway, those are the mental-swirlings of this week. Lots of wonderful unlearning to do. Hope you all are letting go of the things holding you back.