Unlocking Success: Knowing Your “Why”

Entering midlife is often accompanied by a plethora of changes, challenges, and opportunities. It’s a time when so many of us reflect on our life’s journey, reassess our priorities, and set new goals.

However, amidst the hustle and bustle of everyday life, it’s easy to lose sight of who we are and what it is we want out of life.

We could be experiencing empty nest syndrome now the children have left home.  Perhaps you are feeling pulled in all directions because you still have children at home but also find yourself caring for elderly parents.

Juggling all of this with work and running a house, then throwing into the mix perimenopause.  With all these changes happening to your body and mind it’s easy to feel lost.

This is a time in our lives when we should be thriving but so many women are barely just surviving.
A lack of confidence, perhaps not knowing what’s next.

Maybe you know exactly what it is that you want for your life but are too stuck in the ‘how’ or just don’t believe it’s possible.

There are many things we can start to put in place before we even get to the ‘how’ and one of the most crucial steps is connecting with and understanding your “why”.

 Knowing your purpose, motivation, and deeply held reasons behind your aspirations can be the driving force that propels you towards success.

In this month’s blog, I want to delve into why knowing your “why” matters and how it can empower us to achieve our goals.

Your “why” is the heart of your goals. It’s the underlying reason that fuels your desire to achieve something. For many of us, discovering our “why” can be a transformative journey that brings clarity and purpose to those aspirations. Your “why” could stem from various sources, such as personal values, passions, desires, or even a sense of duty towards yourself or others. It’s what gives meaning to your actions and keeps you motivated during challenging times.

Why does it matter?

• Knowing your “why” offers clarity amidst the chaos of daily life. It helps you distinguish between fleeting desires and long-term aspirations, allowing you to focus your energy on what truly matters to you.
• Your “why” serves as a powerful motivator, especially during times of adversity. When we are faced with obstacles or setbacks, reconnecting with your purpose reignites your determination and keeps you moving forward.
• Midlife is a time of transition, and navigating these changes can be daunting. Understanding your “why” instils resilience by reminding you of the reasons behind your goals, empowering you to persevere despite challenges.
• Your “why” acts as a compass, guiding your actions in alignment with your values and beliefs. When your goals are rooted in your deepest convictions, every step you take becomes purposeful and fulfilling.

 
That’s all well and good Sandra, I hear you say but how do I find my “why”?

This is something I get clients to reflect on and I usually get them to do a few little tasks to get to the root of it.  For this blog though take a few moments to do the following when thinking of a specific thing you want to achieve or if you are feeling a little lost about ‘what’s next’ for you in life.

• Take time to identify your core values and beliefs. What matters most to you? What principles do you hold dear? Your “why” often aligns closely with your values, so understanding them is key to discovering your purpose.
• What activities bring you joy and fulfilment? Your passions can offer valuable insights into your “why” by revealing what truly lights up your soul and drives your enthusiasm.
• Pay attention to the emotions that arise when you think about your goals. What feelings are associated with your aspirations? Your “why” is often intertwined with these emotions, serving as a source of inspiration and motivation.
• Continuously inquire into the deeper reasons behind your goals. With each answer, delve further by asking “why” again. This process helps uncover layers of meaning until you reach the core of your motivation.
• Keep asking yourself what achieving that goal will give you?  What impact will it have on your life?  What do you see yourself doing because of that?  Every time you think you have your answer, ask yourself again but why?  Propel yourself into the future having already achieved it.  What does that look and feel like?  How has life changed?

Once you’ve unearthed your “why,” embrace it wholeheartedly. Let it guide your decisions, actions, and mindset as you pursue your goals. Share your “why” with others who support you, allowing them to understand the passion driving your endeavours. And remember, your “why” may evolve over time, so stay open to revisiting and refining it as you grow and change.

In the journey of goal achievement, knowing your “why” is akin to having a North Star guiding you through the uncertainties of midlife. It’s the anchor that keeps you grounded amidst life’s storms and the beacon that illuminates your path forward. As midlife women, embracing our “why” empowers us to pursue our dreams with clarity, passion, and unwavering determination. So, dare to discover your “why” and unleash the boundless potential within you.