There is a difference between planting a seed and moving the needle during a time of transition: one is the formation of an idea, and the other is the action that carries it forward. Both are beneficial for growth.

Some people go through life without finding meaning in their actions. Whatever “is” just is, and that is accepted. Others live with intention and connect their efforts to a sense of purpose. Usually this leads to greater overall life satisfaction. This sense of purpose and meaning affects all facets of life: professional and personal.

Have you ever noticed that when one thing breaks, it seems like so many other things start breaking, too? It is almost amusing (although at first annoying!) how I suddenly seem to have many appliances that need repair in our home. We are currently dealing with a misbehaving dishwasher, a faulty refrigerator, spotty WIFI connection, and uneven air conditioning. Granted, repairing appliances are small obstacles compared to the greater challenges facing the world today.

The other day I read a message from a colleague who wants to figure out a new mission for her business that in her words would “make me cry.” Even though she has accomplished a great deal with her career already, this is something more that she is seeking at this stage in her business. Her thoughts inspired and impressed me, as I had never heard someone say before that they want their work to bring them to tears! I began wondering about my own mission and what it would look like if brought to an even deeper level.

For Mother’s Day I received a beautiful gift from my family. For the next year I will be receiving a weekly email from a company with a surprise question for me to respond to. Each inspiring question asks me to reflect on some aspect of my life, my past experience, and my future ideas. At the end of the year, all of my responses will be compiled in a book for me to pass down to loved ones in years to come.

One of the questions I ask in coaching is “who has inspired you in your life?” My clients’ answers uncover their own values and life philosophies. It is helpful to tune into the people you admire as they serve as reminders of the path you want to set forth for yourself. Today I am reflecting on my late sister who inspired me to embrace a mindset of facing life with joy and courage.