The Path of Purpose

There comes a moment when you decide to make the necessary changes to become a better version of yourself. You decide that you have suffered enough, and suddenly, your desire to improve outweighs the discomfort you feel in the present moment. But what if I told you that the feeling of discomfort never truly goes away? What if I told you that, as a man, enduring suffering is woven into the very fabric of life? That subtle truth hurts, doesn’t it? Because deep down, you know that all your hard work and dreams are inspired by a desire to be relieved of that discomfort.

One of the modern tools of today’s society has hindered us as men. We’ve become onlookers, taking things at face value, and followers, merely consuming rather than producing. If you consume more than you produce, you will never feel like you are living a life worth living. Producing just enough to consume is an algorithm for failure. As men, we want to provide for our families, create a better future, and contribute to society—to add to the infrastructure that ensures our children’s children live in a better tomorrow. These desires come with pain, but we must endure. We must accept that to rise and take our place in this purpose-driven world, we must persist.

There will be distractions. But within this life, every moment is a test. The greatest pleasure for a man is knowing the sweet, delicious prize that sits at the end of the struggle. It’s like working hard all day and coming home to a well-cooked meal. As a man, you must walk your path alone. Yes, you plan, joke, and laugh with friends and brothers, but ultimately, they too have their own purpose-driven journeys. Dwelling on the past is a signal to strengthen yourself. When you find yourself caught in past regrets, it’s time to grow physically, which inevitably strengthens your mind.

You must accept that your journey will not mirror anyone else’s. Judging yourself by someone else’s criteria is a disservice to your unique purpose. Pleasures in this world are fleeting. For instance, you smoke a joint, and it feels good for the moment. But eight hours pass, and you need another one. You become a slave to purposeless pleasure, weakening yourself in the long run. You soon lose sight of who you are without stimulants. Similarly, spilling your seed without hesitation for momentary gratification robs you of joy and strength. As men, we must embrace the truth and express it daily. We must accept imperfection but strive toward greatness, toward the Creator. Even the fear of death must be met with humility and grace.

Do not let your mind dictate who you are meant to be. The mind will haunt and torment you when you are stagnant and not pursuing your purpose. Deep down, you know there is more for you to give, and you must give it. Forget the promises you made in search of acceptance from others. You must accept yourself first. Only you know what you want in life. Only you know what gets you through the tough moments. Step into that knowledge and let it guide your joy. It will bring you fulfillment.

Some men want big, fancy cars and houses; others want a simple family life and the ability to provide. Neither is wrong. Every man has his place in this world. The thing about finding your place is that only you can be happy in it. No other man can find happiness in your position. What energizes you? What fulfills you? What makes you feel powerful? Love your life and your process. Be humble and work toward your goals every day. Share your purpose with the world. The earth will reward you, nurturing your passions and providing abundance.

Be grateful for the moments in your life. Do not fixate on the negatives of the past or attempt to rewrite them. Understand where your feet are right now. You do not need to fix the world; you only need to fix yourself. Avoid drowning in sorrow and instead live with happiness. Be content with today and let tomorrow have its day. Do not dream of vanity or dwell on others’ reactions to your success. We each have our own lives to live. You are not responsible for the emotional security of others. Give yourself space. Let your emotions digest. Do not let jealousy consume you. Embrace love as something ever-giving and ever-present, but don’t suffocate it. Maintain your boundaries.

We are keys to other worlds for some people. Use discernment and good judgment. Take moments to breathe deeply, for breath is invaluable. Do not let desires or goals overwhelm you. When the silence feels loud, listen to yourself. We are mirrors, learning from our experiences and our relationships. Understand that your growth makes you more valuable to others. Be humble in your progress, but do not attach yourself to validation from others. Step into your purpose. Rise and become who you must be for your family. Your purpose will translate into everything you do.