As a society, we tend to seek validation for our purpose through tangible acknowledgments because we have been preconditioned to believe that what we accomplish means nothing without reward. This is entirely incorrect. Think about the things that give you meaning and fuel your purpose. Do these need to have a ribbon, trophy, or golden seal to make your life worth living? Must your children come with a medal? Are your hobbies approved with certificates? We find meaning in many things constantly without them being awarded so why hold ourselves to the same impossible standard? 

Don Miguel Ruiz touches on this concept in his own special way in The Four Agreements. When he states, "don't take anything personally," we roll our eyes and think back to the repetitive phrase offered to us as children as a shield against our elementary school bully. Ruiz, though, goes deeper. Don't take anything personally, negative or positive. The way people view us depends solely on their current state of being, which is known to fluctuate. If someone is being unkind, it is because the current moment is causing them discomfort. If someone is being kind, it is because the current moment is causing them joy. This is a paraphrasing of Ruiz's point but the core message still stands. Do not take anything personally. Only you can decide your fate. 

Finding true meaning in life comes from creating energy within ourselves and within our external environment that has a positive impact. Whether it is acknowledged in this lifetime or not, constantly seeking reward will only leave you unfulfilled, such as Sisyphus pushing the boulder up the hill for eternity. Your value does not stem from external recognition but from recognition of self. You create meaning. You create yourself.  

with peace + love,

Marketing Director of Metaphysical Pilates

"Happiness is the meaning and the purpose of life, the whole aim and end of human existence." -Aristotle

February 2025