Freed for Purpose: Defining Your “Why”

A few years ago, while sitting at a picnic table at our local university with Zach Mercurio—a friend of mine and author of The Invisible Leader—he asked me, “Do you know your why?” He went on to say that most people don’t. We’re naturally “how” and “what” people, but we often struggle to define our “why.”

Defining your “why” might be one of the most important things you do in life. Many people I talk to have never taken the time to define theirs—or at least not well. I’ve been a pastor for years, so you might assume I had mine figured out. On a broad level, I did—it was about God. But on a personal level? That was a different story. What makes me tick? What gets my attention? Why do certain things resonate deeply with me while others don’t? What motivates me to get out of bed and pour myself into a given day?

When Zach asked me that question, I had to admit—somewhat sheepishly—that I didn’t think I really knew my why. He reassured me, explaining that less than 7% of people worldwide have clearly defined their “why.” That was both comforting and empowering: comforting to know I wasn’t alone, and empowering because it meant I could start the journey of understanding myself better. Defining what makes me tick has brought clarity and focus to my life in profound ways.

Knowing who we are gives us the courage to pursue what we’re truly passionate about. It frees us from being defined by others’ opinions or by our own negative self-talk. It empowers us to live fully and to take risks, trying new things without fear of failure.

That conversation with Zach set me on the path to where I am today. It helped me craft my own “why” statement, which I’ve since refined into these words:

“I am passionate about helping others see the good, true, and beautiful in themselves, so they can experience joy and share that joy with others.”

This is my passion. This is my why. And here’s the beauty: I can live this out no matter my professional role. Whether as a pastor, a coach, a real estate agent, or something else entirely, my “why” remains the same.

Too often, we let ourselves be confined by roles, expectations, or distractions instead of pursuing what we truly have to offer the world. But what if you took the time to define your “why”?

Being Freed to Lead—both in life and in work—starts with uncovering and embracing your purpose.

Digging Deeper:

1. Watch comedian Michael Jr.. Click here. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1ytFB8TrkTo  How did this give you a better understanding of the why?
2. Write a purpose statement with 2 componets. “I am passionate about _______ so that __________.    This is a first of many drafts.
3. Read The Invisible Leader by Zach Mercurio. What stories impacted you?  Why?  How can you live with more purpose?
4. Watch Start with why — how great leaders inspire action | Simon Sinek | TEDxPugetSound