Life calling is much more than occupation. Sometimes we may express our calling through our occupation, but this is not always the case. For example, Saul of Tarsus, dramatically called to spread the gospel to the non-Jewish people in the first century B.C., did this primarily outside his occupation as tent maker. Vocational development theory suggests that the late teens and early 20's involve lots of exploration, experiencing, and discovering more about who we are. We're more likely to hear "whispers of Gods calling" than a clear, clarion call. The key question here might be, "Who am I?" In the 30's we see a more deliberate movement into our calling. But it's important to remember a 20 year old can be called to a particular purpose and a 38 year old can feel lost and uncertain. At the Student Success Centre, we divide the concept of life calling into three concrete areas: Each of us is uniquely gifted with talents, strengths, passions, and our own individual personality. We've been designed by God with a purpose, for a purpose. The starting place in exploring calling is to spend time getting to know who you are. There are many ways to do this- and the Student Success Centre is here to help you. You may want to start by attending one of our workshops, taking a look at our library, or meeting individually with one of our counsellors. There's lots you can do on your own to start thinking about what you have learned about yourself. Ask people who know you what they think your strengths are. Purpose The heart of purpose is living our lives from a place of deep conviction that what we do matters and makes a positive difference to others. A life lived without purpose is truly a wasted life. Our gifts, talents, and strengths, - all our uniqueness- has been given for a reason. Each of us is created by God to make a difference and a contribution to something higher than ourselves. Discovering this God-given purpose is a journey. Pay special attention to what brings you joy or what you think might bring you joy. Consider a course or volunteer work that relates to that interest. What do you feel passionate about? Start paying attention to those glimmers. What were you doing when you lost track of time? You might want to commit some time to a Daily Examen a 5-10 minute exercise at the end of your day that may yield amazing insights. Time spent on such exploration is well worth it. We can then, with freedom, put "all our energy into the pedals" and ride with purpose. "I came so they can have real and eternal life, more and better life than they ever dreamed of." (John 10:10, The Message) Our identity and purpose will be expressed in particular places at particular times. Sometimes our calling will steer us in one direction; sometimes another. A calling to encourage others may be expressed during one lifetime through volunteering at a homeless shelter; teaching high school students; or working as a Human Resources manager. As we learn more about our identity it becomes easier to discern our purpose. We learn what were not designed to do. It becomes easier to say "No, thank you" to opportunities that come our way. The importance of learning to listen to God, to be able to discern His leading, His steering, is essential. And its a life long learning process. Jesus said, "I'm not going to the festival. Don't wait for me. It's not the right time for me." (John 7:8, The Message) Discovering Life Calling
Identity
Direction