Finding Your Purpose As A Guyanese

In developing countries like Guyana, not many of us stop to think deeply about the fundamental questions of life, one being, “what is my purpose?” We are sometimes so caught up trying to make a living that we forget the real purpose of why we want to live. The question of one’s purpose in life is a deeply personal and complex one that each individual must answer for themselves. For some, a sense of purpose may come from religious or spiritual beliefs, while for others, it may come from a sense of duty or responsibility to family and community. Some people find their purpose through their work or career, while others may find it through creative pursuits or volunteerism. Some people get a good feeling when they can give something positive to this world and know that they will leave a legacy at the end of their life.

“Ask not what your country can do for you – ask what you can do for your country.” – John F. Kennedy

Leaning on the quote from JFK, we can find the right mindset to help ourselves answer this very deep question. We should ask not what the world can give to us but, instead, what can give to this world. This, then, will put you in a position to think about the purpose you bring to life around you.

It’s important to remember that there is no single “right” purpose for life and that each person’s purpose is unique to them. It’s also important to remember that the process of figuring out one’s purpose is ongoing. People’s values, goals and interests might change over the course of their life, and so will their perceived purpose.

How to Discover your Purpose

Here are a few tips that might help you discover your own sense of purpose:

Reflect on your values: Consider what you believe to be important and meaningful in life. What values are important to you? What do you stand for?

Explore your passions: Think about the things that you enjoy doing and that make you feel fulfilled. What are your hobbies, interests, and passions?

Look at your experiences: What are the defining moments of your life so far? What experiences have shaped you? What lessons have you learned?

Consider your potential: What talents and abilities do you have that could be used to make a positive impact in the world?

Get outside perspective: Talk to people you respect and trust about their own sense of purpose. Seek feedback and advice from others.

Experiment: Try new things, take risks, and explore different paths. Sometimes the best way to discover your purpose is through experimentation and learning through experience.

Remember, figuring out your purpose in life can take time, and it can be an ongoing process. Give yourself time -be patient, and keep an open mind, your purpose will reveal itself in time.

As argued, some of us find purpose by contributing positively to our country, if you are keen on doing so, read the next section.

How to Positively Contribute to Guyana

There are many challenges that are waiting for solutions in Guyana. While some of us are quick to complain and criticize, we must take it to the next level by also getting into the habit of coining and proposing solutions. When we do so, we become part of the solution and it brings us closer to leaving strong legacies.

There are many ways to contribute to one’s country positively, some examples include:

• Exercising your political rights, like voting in elections and staying informed about political issues
• Volunteering in the community or with local organizations
• Supporting local businesses and buying products made in the country
• Choose a career that directly affects the lives of people around you, like becoming a teacher, a community leader, a doctor, a community worker, etc.
• Paying taxes and participating in the country’s economy
• Educating oneself on the country’s history and culture so that you are familiar with the values that the country is built on.
• Being an active and engaged citizen by speaking out on issues and participating in the democratic process.
• Be willing to share your acquired knowledge and skills with your countrymen. This can be done both in formal and informal settings. Remember, the value of knowledge increases the more it is shared.

It’s important to remember that everyone’s abilities and resources are different, so it’s important to find the ways that work best for you to make a positive impact on your country.

Remember, living in confirmation with your values is essentially living your purpose. A sense of value or self-worth is central when we live with a purpose.