Pathway Back To Purpose

In spite of the dark kickoff of the new year, let us herald the coming of a golden dawn, a brighter day, a call to shine again. This morning, as I sat with my family, I asked a question that sparked some thoughtful silence: “How many of you remember what it felt like to be a child? What did you do that brought genuine satisfaction and fulfillment?” The responses revealed a common thread of wistful nostalgia, with those of us whose brain was back online recalling moments of joy, creativity, or wonder, yet recognizing how far we’ve drifted from those feelings. Except for my 11 year old. She’s still in it. I encouraged the rest of us to take a walk down memory lane today, to engage in an imaginary conversation with our younger selves, and to ask what points or dreams still linger. This reflective exercise highlights how distractions, assumptions, people-pleasing, and avoiding hard truths often pull us away from our authentic paths.

As children, we’re naturally in tune with our core selves, unburdened by societal expectations. But as we grow, external pressures mount. We become distracted by the constant noise of the digital age, adopt rigid assumptions about what success should look like, and fall into the trap of prioritizing others’ expectations over our own needs. Often, we’re too afraid to confront the truths about our desires, fears, or limitations, which only leads us further from fulfillment. 

Reconnecting with your stellar soul (inner child) isn’t just nostalgic; it’s a powerful way to realign with your sense of purpose. Start by visualizing yourself as a child and asking: “What made you happy? What did you love doing?” Reflect on those memories and consider reintroducing those activities into your life. Writing down your thoughts in a journal can provide clarity, helping you identify what aligns with your values and what feels out of sync. This self-awareness makes it easier to set boundaries, to say no to draining commitments, and prioritize what truly matters.

Curiosity, playfulness and experimentation are keys to this process. Give yourself permission to try new things without the pressure of perfection. Revisit hobbies or interests you’ve abandoned and let creativity flow freely. Sharing this journey with supportive loved ones or a like-minded community can provide encouragement and accountability. Life is dynamic, so periodically reassess your path by asking your stellar soul if you’re still on track.

The journey back to your authentic self demands honesty and courage. It involves shedding distractions, weighty societal expectations, and the need to please others. Above all, it requires speaking your truth, even when it’s uncomfortable. By reconnecting with your stellar soul, you can reignite the spark that once guided you effortlessly and reclaim the satisfaction and fulfillment you thought was lost. Take that walk down memory lane—you are waiting to guide you home.