What drives your life?

Through his book entitled, “The Purpose Driven Life” Rick Warren helped me realise in a deeper way that as individuals we all have different forces that drive our lives. “There are hundreds of circumstances, values and emotions that can drive your life”, writes Warren. 

He goes on to list five common aspects as the driving forces in the lives of people, namely: guilt, resentment and anger, fear, materialism and the need for approval. I found that list quite insightful. 

I became more curious in trying to understand what really was the driving force behind my thoughts, feelings and actions during the various circumstances I encountered or found myself. Whether it was thinking through a situation, identifying my feelings or making a decision about how to proceed, I have generally used Warren’s list as a filter to help me understand my own motivations better. 

This is an on-going process because as human beings we are evolving each day. What may have been the driving force in my teens, may not necessarily be the driving forces in my forties. Whatever the case, I think Warren offers us a useful tool in helping us become conscious of who we are, at a given point in our lives. 

Earlier today, I was listening to the words written by Matthew in his gospel when he referred to the episode of Jesus going into the desert. He says, “The Spirit drove Jesus to the desert...”

That got me thinking, and I asked myself: “What is inspiring my actions of late?”. Hence the inspiration for theme of today’s reflection: What drives your life? 

As a Personal Development Coach, this is a question I get to reflect with my Clients regularly. What drives your life?  It is always interesting how I learn more about myself during the course of our conversations. In fact this is one of the questions that really anchors my sense of being. 

I was talking to an associate today, when we met at the Mall. So I asked him: “how are things going?”. His response was: “So far so good. The year is treating me well.” This was so refreshing and encouraging to hear. Many people would respond indifferently and give the impression that life is to be endured, yet, I believe, it is to be enjoyed. 

Maybe once in a while, for instance before the week starts, it could be useful for to take stock of how the previous week went, and what animated your life; and what you could do to improve the coming week or days. A starting point to ask your self could be: What is the driving force behind your life?


 

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