I was sitting with a recently-retired friend the other day and we were brainstorming how she might spend some of her newly-created free time. Ironically, she mentioned going back to work. Dubiously, I agreed that was a possibility, adding “But this time, you can choose to work at something just because it’s fun.” “No, not just fun,” she countered. “Fulfilling.”
That got me thinking.
You can’t get far into marketing theory without coming across the idea that what sells best addresses one of three fundamental human desires: Wealth, Health, or Relationship. I’d like to add a fourth: Fulfillment…soul fulfillment.
I’m not saying that just based on my friend’s comment. I’m saying that based on my own experience, which I’d never thought about in this way till the other day. I’ve had an almost-embarrassingly good life. Sure, I have a long list of what I would do with more money, but I’ve always had enough to live comfortably with a job I enjoy, I’ve always been in good health, and I’m surrounded by loving and supportive family and friends. Wealth, health, relationships – check, check, check. The thing was, before I got onto my own “lighted pathway,” I remember being bored. Bored to the point of depression even. I couldn’t shake the thought that “there must be something more”. But I had no idea what that could be or how to go about figuring that out.
On a whim, I purchased a Groupon for a psychic reading and went to see her. I remember the advice: “I don’t know. Stop volunteering so much and figure out what you really want. Maybe read Wayne Dyer.” Ahhh, there it was: somewhat vague but enough of a breadcrumb to get me started. Be still. Stop spreading myself so thin; spend some time relaxing and do things I enjoy. Make space for inspiration, and the pathway will open.
I took her advice to heart and over time, found the boredom replaced with…not just joy, but a budding sense of fulfillment. I wanted more of that feeling and needed guidance. Not wealth guidance, not health guidance, not relationship guidance. No, I was in the market for a soul-fulfillment program. It took a few months, but I found the perfect one for me. And it’s made all the difference.
What desire are you seeking? The answer is within reach….and it’s fun and fulfilling!
Be still.
Pay attention.
Take charge.
