Some individuals grow up with figured-out goals, what they want to do, and sometimes even the steps to achieve their goals. Meanwhile, other people are still puzzled about finding their objectives and the meaning of what they are doing. While this post attempts to provide a perspective on how to reveal our goals and know whether these are the real ones, it is still open for further discussion to enrich the points of discussion. It might be particularly relevant for individuals who have been doing some professional work for a while but feel indifferent about whether they should make a move or settle in the current state.
First, it is worth noting that we might have initial goals when deciding our job preferences. Nevertheless, there might be a misalignment between our short-term and long-term career aspirations. Depending on individual-specific circumstances, some individuals might have short-term goals related to the job that is not “the calling”. For example, to obtain a higher probability to grab some opportunities, such as expanding networks, having more experience, achieving a relatively stable financial-wise, and getting a higher education. Assuming that we have recognized our calling during the process, having short-run objectives and taking a certain position need not necessarily match our passion, i.e. the calling. When those short-term purposes have been fulfilled, and no other further purposes related to the current job, it could indicate a substantial consideration to make a shift.
Furthermore, we might reveal our real goals when we continuously feel restless and think about the other thing that has been becoming our passion or calling. Individuals are sometimes late in unraveling their life goals, and it could be quite tricky as we might realize that ‘the grass is greener on the other side’ might hold. Nonetheless, we might recognize the difference when we carefully investigate the source of the repeating restless feeling that is accompanied by thinking about the other jobs that are our calling. Moreover, examining whether the passion or calling is the real one by trying other jobs or positions costs us time and energy. Alternatively, we could try answering some questions about finding true talent or passion, such as what are our best skills, what achievements we have accomplished, and ultimately, how we want to spend and what kind of activities we want to do for the rest of our lives.
“I have never spent a day without thinking about my calling.”
It is imperative to note several things before actually making a move. Firstly, be patient as the process takes time. In the meantime, we could do actions relevant to that calling, even the seemingly insignificant or relatively small but actually crucial steps. If the current position is not in the calling, increase capacity, competence, and necessary skills related to the calling so that when it is time to make a move, we are already well-prepared and deserve to work on that calling. Secondly, carefully set ourselves in the right social circle and thoughtfully ask for advice from relatively wise individuals. These help us navigate and evaluate ourselves while simultaneously learning from others’ relevant experiences and lessons.
Those who sow in tears shall reap in joy.
Psalm
He who continually goes forth weeping, bearing seed for sowing, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.
To conclude, it might be never too late to pursue individuals calling in their lives. We are never too far away to come back. It takes commitment to make strategic actions relevant to the calling, equipped with self-discipline, motivation, and willingness to grow and move towards the ultimate goals.
hope. 