Finding Purpose: Present vs. Future Focus

Most people view purpose as a distant future goal requiring present-moment sacrifice. But what if purpose could also enhance your daily life? This article explores both approaches to living with intention.

Understanding Purpose as a Spectrum

Purpose exists on a continuum:
- Future-oriented purpose: Sacrificing now for later rewards
- Present-oriented purpose: Finding meaning in current activities

The healthiest approach often lies between these extremes - your personal "Goldilocks Zone" of purposeful living.

The Problem With Future-Focused Purpose

My Personal Wake-Up Call

As a former entrepreneur, I celebrated milestones by purchasing watches. Years later, I realized:
- I couldn't remember the achievements they represented
- I'd been so focused on future goals that I missed the present moments

The Hedonic Treadmill Effect

Future-oriented purpose creates a cycle where:
1. You achieve a goal
2. The goalpost moves
3. You chase the next achievement
4. The cycle repeats indefinitely

This "telic" approach (goal-focused activity) can leave you constantly striving but never satisfied.

The Power of Present-Oriented Purpose

Discovering Atelic Activities

Unlike future-focused goals, present-oriented purpose involves "atelic" activities - those done for their own sake rather than an end result. Examples include:
- Creative pursuits like drawing or writing
- Mindful presence in daily activities
- Enjoying relationships without agenda

How to Cultivate Present-Moment Purpose

1. Identify what brings you joy now - Not future achievements, but current experiences
2. Notice when you feel most alive - These moments reveal your present-oriented purpose
3. Design your future around these experiences - Create a life that maximizes meaningful moments

Balancing Present and Future Purpose

My Personal Framework

Through self-reflection, I discovered three keys to my present-moment purpose:
1. Helping good people with important work
2. Writing about meaningful topics
3. Being fully present with loved ones

I then designed my future to support these present-moment priorities.

Making Impact Without Sacrifice

Contrary to popular belief, present-oriented purpose doesn't mean abandoning impact. As William James said: "The greatest use of a life is to spend it on something that will outlast it."

My current purpose statement:
"To help founders grow into extraordinary leaders and build life-giving companies, by becoming the fullest version of themselves."

This allows me to:
- Make a lasting difference
- Stay present in my work
- Enjoy daily life with family

Journaling Exercise: Discover Your Purpose Balance

Spend 20 minutes exploring these questions:

Part 1: Reflection (15 minutes)

1. When have you felt most alive? (5 minutes)
2. What brought you joy recently? (5 minutes)
3. What did you love as a child? (5 minutes)

Part 2: Visioning (5 minutes)

4. How would you spend your last 24 hours?
5. Who would you spend it with?

Part 3: Integration

6. What do these answers reveal about your ideal present?
7. What future would support more of these moments?

Conclusion: Your Purpose, Your Choice

There's no single "right" way to live purposefully. The key is conscious choice:
- Future-focused purpose drives achievement
- Present-oriented purpose enhances daily life

The most fulfilling lives often blend both approaches. Through regular reflection and intentional design, you can create your unique path to meaningful living.