In the words of the esteemed German philosopher Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, “Everyone holds his fortune in his own hands, like a sculptor the raw material he will fashion into a figure.” This profound statement encapsulates the essence of personal agency and the power we wield to shape our destinies.
Just as sculptors mold clay into a masterpiece, we can craft our lives into something extraordinary. However, this process is not solely about innate talent; it requires deliberate action, introspection, and a profound understanding of our innermost desires and aspirations. The first step is to discover your calling.
Consider this analogy: when a sculptor begins his work, he starts with a clear vision of the masterpiece he seeks to create. Similarly, each individual possesses an innate sense of purpose—a Life’s Task—that beckons them forward.
This task is not predetermined or fixed; it culminates our unique experiences, talents, and passions. By tapping into this inner reservoir of potential, we can unlock a life of profound meaning, fulfillment, and authenticity.
Everyone holds his fortune in his own hands, like a sculptor the raw material he will fashion into a figure. But it’s the same with that type of artistic activity as with all others: We are merely born with the capability to do it. The skill to mold the material into what we want must be learned and attentively cultivated.
—Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
The Inner Force: Guiding You Toward Your Life’s Task
Within each of us lies an intrinsic force, a quiet whisper urging us to pursue our true purpose. This inner compass is attuned to our passions and inclinations, guiding us toward what we are meant to accomplish during our brief sojourn on this planet.
In the innocence of childhood, this force pulsates with clarity. We gravitate toward activities and subjects that ignite our curiosity, stirring a primal enthusiasm within. It is a time when the world seems full of possibilities, and our imaginations run wild with dreams of what we could become.
Whether it is the thrill of creating art, the joy of solving complex mathematical puzzles, or the exhilaration of exploring the outdoors, these inclinations illuminate our path. We engage in play without the constraints of judgment, experimentation, or fear, allowing our innate abilities to flourish freely.
However, as we transition into adulthood, the cacophony of external influences can dilute this guiding force. The voices of parents, peers, and societal expectations seep into our consciousness, drowning out the authentic desires that once resonated so profoundly. Our once-clear inclinations become clouded by the expectations imposed upon us.
Over time, the anxieties of daily life—a relentless cycle of obligations and responsibilities—conspire to obscure our true selves. We often become ensnared in routines, prioritizing stability over fulfillment, gradually eroding our passion.
This disconnection from our core essence can be a wellspring of dissatisfaction, leading to discontent and confusion. Many people find themselves trapped in careers or lifestyles that do not resonate with their true identities, leading to a pervasive sense of malaise. The heart of this struggle lies in the failure to recognize and honor our unique contributions to the world.
To rekindle our connection to that inner force, we must cultivate self-awareness. This journey inward requires us to confront uncomfortable truths about ourselves. What truly excites us? What makes us lose track of time? Reflecting on our past experiences can uncover clues about our genuine inclinations.
The Importance of Self-Discovery
Self-discovery is a vital precursor to mastery. It is the fertile soil from which our passions can flourish. Without it, we may wander through life as passive participants, responding to the demands of others rather than actively pursuing our true potential.
To unearth our calling, we must engage in practices that foster clarity and insight. Journaling can be a powerful tool, providing a canvas for our thoughts and emotions. By putting pen to paper, we can articulate our desires, fears, and dreams.
This process crystallizes our understanding and serves as a repository of our evolving self. When we revisit our entries over time, we can trace the emerging patterns and themes, gaining a deeper appreciation for our journey.
Additionally, mindfulness practices—such as meditation or deep contemplation—allow us to quiet the noise and attune ourselves to our inner voice. Mindfulness encourages us to observe our thoughts and feelings without judgment, creating a space for introspection. Through this practice, we can better understand our motivations and desires, creating a clearer connection to our calling.
Exploring diverse experiences can also illuminate our path. Trying out new hobbies, volunteering, or immersing ourselves in different environments can unveil hidden passions.
By stepping outside our comfort zones, we expand our horizons and glean insights about ourselves that may have otherwise remained dormant. Engaging with different communities or cultures can reveal aspects of ourselves we may not have recognized.
It is essential to approach this exploration with an open mind and heart. Each experience, whether positive or negative, contributes to our understanding of who we are. Rather than seeking validation from others, we must learn to trust our instincts and preferences, forging our unique path based on what resonates.
Embracing Change: It’s Never Too Late
The narrative that our calling must be discovered in youth is a myth. The reality is that it is never too late to embark on this transformative journey. Many individuals experience significant career shifts and aspirations later in life, often leading to unparalleled fulfillment.
As we age, our experiences accumulate, enriching our perspectives and broadening our understanding of the world. This newfound wisdom can inform our pursuits, guiding us toward endeavors that align more closely with our authentic selves.
With age often comes a greater understanding of our values and priorities. We may become more discerning about how we invest our time and energy.
Embracing change requires courage to let go of the familiar and venture into the unknown. This process can be daunting, as it often necessitates reevaluating long-held beliefs and assumptions about ourselves.
However, acknowledging that change is a natural part of life allows us to approach it with curiosity rather than fear.
For many, reinvention is intimidating, especially when faced with societal expectations or familial obligations. Yet, it is essential to recognize that pursuing one’s calling is not selfish but honoring our potential.
Dismissing the fear of judgment or failure is crucial as well. The societal pressure to conform can be stifling, but recognizing that each person’s path is unique empowers us to pursue what resonates with our essence.
Surrounding ourselves with supportive communities and mentors can also bolster our confidence, encouraging as we navigate uncharted territories. Connecting with like-minded individuals who share similar aspirations can foster a sense of belonging and motivation. These relationships can serve as inspiration and accountability, propelling us forward on our journey.
The Path to Mastery: A Lifelong Endeavor
Mastery is not a mere endpoint but a continual process of growth and self-improvement. Discovering your calling is merely the genesis of this journey. Once we identify our true passions, cultivating the skills necessary to excel in those areas is the next step.
This requires dedication, discipline, and a willingness to embrace the challenges that accompany the pursuit of mastery. The path to mastery is often paved with obstacles, setbacks, and moments of self-doubt.
Acknowledging that these experiences are integral to the journey allows us to cultivate resilience. Each challenge presents an opportunity for growth and development, helping us refine our skills and deepen our understanding of our chosen pursuits.
Investing time in education—whether formal or self-directed—is paramount. This could involve enrolling in courses, attending workshops, or dedicating time to read and practice.
Committing to lifelong learning fosters resilience and adaptability, essential qualities for anyone striving to master their craft. The world is in constant flux, and the ability to adapt and grow is vital for sustaining our passion.
Moreover, seeking feedback and constructive criticism is invaluable. Engaging with peers, mentors, and even critics provides insights that can propel our growth. Embracing these perspectives—rather than shying away from them—allows us to refine our abilities and enhance our understanding of our chosen path. Constructive feedback can illuminate blind spots, offering opportunities for improvement and innovation.
In addition to honing our skills, it is crucial to cultivate a growth mindset. This perspective encourages us to view challenges as opportunities rather than threats. When we embrace the notion that failure is a stepping stone to success, we can navigate our journey’s inevitable ups and downs with grace and determination. By celebrating progress and recognizing the value of persistence, we can remain motivated in our pursuit of mastery.
Personal Reflection: Discover Your Calling
Daily Law: Mastery is a process, and discovering your calling is the starting point.
From Mastery, I: Discover Your Calling—The Life’s Task
When I read the words “Discover Your Calling,” I think about things I am passionate about. I don’t subscribe to the notion that one should follow one’s passion (The Passion Hypothesis) to discover one’s calling because it implies a pre-existing passion waiting to be discovered. In his seminal work So Good They Can’t Ignore You, Cal Newport dispelled this idea.
We grow passionate about things when we spend time doing them and getting better at them. When it comes to choosing meaningful work, I adopt the craftsman mindset. It’s not about doing what you love but loving what you do. This would support the notion that mastery is a process and takes time. You have to trust the process, and as GaryVee says, “You have to love the journey and the climb.”
There is also Malcolm Gladwell’s 10000-hour rules for mastery. Discovering your calling is about choosing the things you are prepared to struggle with. This daily law calls for introspection and self-awareness. One should be aware of their tendencies and beliefs about the world.
Over the years, I have struggled a lot with finding my calling. I have switched careers, taken tests, completed questionnaires, interacted with experts, etc. When you try something unconventional, you sometimes face pressure from your family and judgment from society in general. It’s hard to keep your blinders on and do your thing because you believe it will eventually bring results.
Conclusion
Discovering your calling is a journey of self-discovery—a quest to uncover the essence of who you are and what you are meant to contribute to the world. It is about aligning your actions with your deepest desires and aspirations, tapping into the boundless reservoir of creativity and potential within you.
So, heed the call of your inner force, embark on the journey of self-discovery, and embrace the path towards mastery—the life you envision awaits.
This article is part of the Reflections on The Daily Laws Series, based on Robert Greene’s book.