Why does a thought leader need a clear purpose?
Many people begin their careers with a specific goal in mind, yet it is easy to lose sight of it under daily responsibilities. For thought leaders the stakes are higher: as recognised experts they can influence others significantly, but only if they understand their purpose and stay connected to it.
What questions help you find your passion?
The book suggests quiet, honest reflection on questions such as:
- What aspects of your work or field truly excite and energise you?
- In what ways could your contributions positively impact others?
- When do you feel most fulfilled and aligned with your values?
- What is the one thing that wakes you up looking forward to the day?
- Which problems do you willingly invest time in solving because you care about them?
It also advises being honest about what genuinely brings you joy, rather than what others might expect of you, and being willing to try new things, because sometimes you only discover a passion by experiencing it.
What are the seven exercises for finding your purpose?
1. Self-assessment. Set aside quiet time to reflect on your values, interests, skills and motivations, including the rewards that spur you on.
2. Identify your strengths. Reflect on your standout abilities and the activities where you reach a state of flow. Online personality or strengths assessments can reveal qualities you had not consciously recognised.
3. Explore different fields. Read, attend webinars, lectures, conferences and workshops to learn about trends, key players and opportunities.
4. Conduct informational interviews. Speak with people established in a field that interests you to learn the day-to-day reality, test the fit and build connections.
5. Volunteer. Gain first-hand knowledge, build skills and find out whether an interest is passing or can become a long-term commitment.
6. Write down your goals. Record short-term and long-term goals as a tangible reminder of your direction, particularly in challenging times.
7. Seek feedback. Ask colleagues, mentors and friends how they see you. The book notes that feedback should inform, not dictate, your choices.
What is Ikigai and how does it relate to purpose?
The book introduces Ikigai, a Japanese concept popularised by Héctor García and Francesc Miralles in 2017, combining “iki” (life) and “gai” (worth or value). It describes the intersection of four elements:
- What you love (your passion)
- What you are good at (your talent)
- What the world needs (your mission)
- What you can be paid for (your profession)
Use the interactive prompt below to jot down your own answers and notice where they overlap.
Does your purpose stay the same?
Not necessarily. The book stresses that self-reflection is not a one-time activity and that your purpose may shift as your career and personal life evolve. Stay open to opportunities that align with your values and goals. For a deeper treatment of life’s mission, the book points readers to Dr Khoda’s earlier work, The Power of Purpose. Next, turn your findings into statements in How to Define Your Core Values, Mission and Vision.
[Interactive on the website: Ikigai reflection tool. See the HTML version.]
Frequently asked questions
How do I find my purpose as a thought leader?
Combine reflection on your passion, strengths and values with practical exercises such as informational interviews, volunteering and seeking feedback, then write down your goals.
What is Ikigai?
A Japanese concept about finding purpose where four things intersect: what you love, what you are good at, what the world needs and what you can be paid for.
Should I use personality or strengths tests?
The book suggests they can help you recognise strengths you may not have noticed, and recommends using the insights to leverage your strengths for maximum impact.
What if my purpose changes over time?
That is normal. The book says to revisit your reflections regularly and stay open to opportunities that align with your evolving values and goals.
