Looking for Your Purpose? What’s Your Backup Plan?

August 6, 2010

He’s one of the best business leaders I know—charismatic, visionary, intelligent, and values-centered. As we sat across the table from each other at lunch, I listened intently as Bruce shared the latest news from his business and then began to ask me about my endeavors. I always pay attention to him because during our many conversations over the last decade, I’ve never walked away without learning something important, either about myself, about business, or about life in general. I believe he would say the same thing about these conversations. Today was no exception.

Bruce was, as he always is, very complimentary about my work. He said he loved the new web site, liked the upcoming book ideas, and was impressed that I am now winding down my corporate consulting and putting my fulltime efforts into helping others find their purpose of life and a true passion for life. Then he asked me a very practical question, “Paul, what’s your backup plan if your current business plan doesn’t work out?” Without hesitating I replied, “Well, I don’t have a backup plan.” As I listened to my response, I realized the importance of my reply. I have always had a backup plan—until now. And in that moment, I discovered that I am truly and wholeheartedly committed to pursuing my Calling.

It seems to me that while “backup plans” make a lot of practical sense when it comes to war and business, they have no place in our lives in certain situations. A backup plan, while often practical, is really just an indication that we are unsure of how things will turn out. We build these plans because we lack total confidence that we know what we’re doing and in our ability to predict the future. Of course, in much of life it would be foolish not to develop a backup plan. But when it comes to surrendering to our Calling and fulfilling our purpose, backup plans often become the excuse we run to as soon as we encounter our own self-doubts.

Here’s a way to gauge your level of commitment to your Calling and life’s purpose. Imagine walking down the aisle on your wedding day, arriving face-to-face with your beloved, looking deep into his or her eyes and whispering just before the ceremony begins, “No worries, darling. I’ve got a great backup plan if this doesn’t work out.” Yikes! Why would this comment be so shocking? Because a backup plan indicates a lack of belief in, and commitment to, the relationship. And when it comes to listening to your Calling, and the One who Calls, a backup plan is just as strong an indicator that you’re unsure. While you can never predict the future perfectly, you can commit to pursuing your Calling and fulfilling your purpose regardless of the outcome, in sickness and in health, in times of plenty and in times of want.

Please understand, I am not encouraging recklessness. I’m not suggesting that you or I should abandon common sense. What I am saying is this. Many people really don’t know what their Calling is. They’re unsure of their life purpose and don’t know where to find their passion. I’m not speaking to these people. But if you know what your purpose is, if deep inside you know the answer to the question, “What should I do with my life?“, if that quiet inner voice keeps providing direction, then do it!  No matter what it takes, no matter the results, do it. Be willing to do whatever is necessary to say “Yes” to your Calling, and then head out on a life journey dedicated to fulfilling your purpose. It is along this journey that you will find your passion and here that you’ll find life’s great adventure.

Bruce, thanks as always for being a catalyst in my thinking.