What can I contribute to the world?

Having a sense of belonging can be challenging when life lacks meaning. This common experience may explain why "Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life," which focuses on discovering one's purpose, has become an international bestseller.

Héctor García and Francesc Miralles, the authors of the book "How to Live a Happy, Purposeful Life," have recently published another book that explores cultures in India for insight on finding one's life's purpose.

García and Miralles examine the significance of "purushartha," a central concept in Hinduism that refers to the ultimate aim of human existence, in their book "The Four-Way Path: A Guide to Purushartha and India's Spiritual Traditions for a Life of Happiness, Success, and Purpose."

To "live in accordance with purushartha," four areas must be cultivated, as stated by García and Miralles.

Ask yourself these 4 questions to find your purpose

To discover your purpose and respond to "What is my purpose?" consider asking yourself these four questions:

1. Kama: What do I love doing?

"The concept of "Kama" emphasizes the appreciation of life's beauty and centers on emotions, passions, and love, as stated by García and Miralles. To fully explore this domain, consider asking yourself, "What activities bring me joy? What are my aspirations?""

2. Dharma: What does the world need from me?

"What does the world require of me? Why am I here?"

3. Artha: What do I need to sustain my life?

"What are the questions to consider in regards to sustaining your life, particularly in terms of your career and financial security?"

4. Moksha: Who am I?

The pursuit of "moksha" is centered on achieving freedom and self-realization. García and Miralles suggested considering the question, "How would you define yourself without referencing your name, job, affiliations, or nationality?" This inquiry explores the essence of one's identity.

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