I’m a goals guy. I write goals down, make plans, and set deadlines all the time. When I don’t write down my goals, I lose focus and live unintentionally. I drifted after seminary, only to start a doctorate 11 years after graduating. I could’ve earned two PhDs in those 11 years. Now, I could say work, marriage, kids, and life happened during those 11 years. But that would be an excuse.
I know what happened—I lost focus. And I fear that too many men drift through life. Have you ever thought about your purpose? Or are you drifting? Myles Munroe said, “The greatest tragedy is not death, but life without purpose.” I don’t want to drift through life. So, I’ve learned to ask myself some questions that keep me focused. Here are 3 questions to help you stay focused on your goals.
1. Why am I here?
Rick Warren says, “Focusing on ourselves will never reveal our life’s purpose.” Unfortunately, many people think the purpose of life is to collect more money and possessions for themselves. They think it’s about taking as much as they can. But gathering more stuff for ourselves and pursuing our selfish desires leaves life empty and devoid of meaning.
So, why am I here? I believe the answer comes back to God. He created us for relationships, with Him and with others. It’s these relationships that make life richer and fuller. Experiencing the best that life has to offer needs to involve investing in relationships.
2. What can you give?
You’ve been given time, resources, and gifts to serve others. What will you give? It’s helpful to consider how you’ve been gifted and what your passions are. Do you know your gifts? What are your natural abilities? In what areas are you willing to work harder than others? What experiences do you have that confirm or deny all your answers to these questions? Do the work to answer these questions. Don’t drift. Odds are good, the answers will show you how you can make the most difference in the world around you.
3. Who will you help?
The people you see each day may be the folks God is putting in your life to help.Once you know your why and what, the next question to ask yourself is all about who. Be mindful of every person you come into contact with. The people you see each day may be the folks God is putting in your life to help. What are you doing with the relationships in front of you now? See these relationships as the gifts they are. Imagine how much deeper we’d sense our purpose if we viewed each encounter we had daily as a divine appointment.
The next time you find yourself feeling unfocused and unintentional, remember to ask yourself these three questions to help you get back on track and stay focused on your goals.
Sound off: When is the last time you paused long enough to ask yourself these three questions?
Huddle up with your kids and ask, “What would your answer be to these three questions?”