Many years ago, I met a lady at a function (I can’t remember what function it was — it’s been so long). Anyway, she and I got talking, and within a few minutes, she was sharing details of her life with me. These weren’t run-of-the-mill details, mind you. These were painful challenges she was facing and was confused about how to handle. I encouraged her as best I could and shared some advice with her.

Fast forward a few years later, and I happened to bump into the same lady again. On seeing me, she gave me a big hug and, with tears in her eyes, told me how much of a positive difference I had made in her life.

This kind of thing would occur repeatedly in my life. I would find myself meeting strangers (mostly women), and they’d share private issues with me, and I’d encourage and counsel them. I didn’t know it then, but this was the beginning of me discovering my purpose in life: encouraging and inspiring people.

Dear reader, if you are at a point in your life where you feel confused, unfulfilled, and wondering why you are here, then please read on — there is a word here just for you. Let me start by saying this: You are valuable, and you have a purpose in life. It doesn’t matter the circumstances of your birth or what you were told growing up. You are important, and what you carry is capable of making a positive difference in the lives of many.

Now, how does one discover purpose? Well, here are a few thoughts to help you discover yours:

1) Purpose is not far from you:
Your purpose in life is not something outside of yourself but is rooted in the core values, skills, and passions you carry. I don’t try to encourage people — it comes naturally to me and is something I can do even when I’m bone tired. I love it, and I love how it uplifts others. So, take a good look at yourself. What are those things you do naturally, almost effortlessly? What are those things that come easy to you? Start there.

2) Purpose is often found in the mundane things:
Some people are looking for their purpose in grand, cinematic moments. While purpose can be found in these “high” moments, I’ve found that one’s purpose is often discovered in the simple, everyday things of life: waking up, going to work, taking care of our children, enjoying hobbies, etc. The late Fred Rogers (better known as Mister Rogers) discovered his purpose in everyday kindness and being present with people in ordinary moments — teaching children to cope with emotions, tying shoes, and dealing with loss. This would eventually lead him to create the massively successful, long-running television series Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, which would be viewed and loved by millions. Don’t overlook the simple, mundane things. Engage with life.

3) Purpose can be found in seasons of difficulty:
When life gets rough and hard, one can discover their life’s purpose. A young woman who spent her youth in sickness discovers her life purpose in treating the sick and goes on to become a surgeon. Whatever pain you’re going through, my prayer is that you come through and find lasting value from it.

I hope this helps, and whoever you are and wherever you are, I pray that you discover your purpose and live a fulfilled life. Thank you for reading. God loves you, and so do I!