Catalyst Question: What do I want?

In this new feature, I will pose a question every week. Catalyst Questions are meant to encourage self-reflection and open you up to new possibilities!

What do I want?

This seemingly simple question is underrated. In many of my conversations with coaching clients, I notice a recurring theme. I have noticed that when we’re facing important decisions, we tend to weigh the options taking into account expectations of our loved ones, friends and peers and think of what we are “supposed to do.” This leads us to look outside ourselves and try to “fit” the world.

While it is important to consider those around us, we are sometimes missing our own point of view. By turning inward to ask ourselves what WE want, we can find greater fulfillment and happiness.

Some considerations that can help you answer “What do you want” are:

• What are you most passionate about in life?
• What makes you happy? What do you look forward to when you wake up in the morning?
• What’s been the most satisfying thing you’ve done? What made it so fulfilling?

We should consider this question deeply, yet it does not mean that we will alienate our loved ones and peers. Instead, there should be a balance and we can’t forsake our own desires and calling because we are too pressured by external forces.

I encourage you to pause and think about this Catalyst Question. Who knows where the answer might lead you! Feel free to share some of your answers in the comments below!

Instant Tweet: By turning inward to ask ourselves what WE want, we can find greater fulfillment and happiness. @icatalyze bit.ly/icatalyze1

Photo credit: “business diagram” by Steve Wilson, via Flickr