Years ago, while participating in a coaching certification program with The Hudson Institute, I read The Adult Years by Frederic Hudson. That book introduced me to the concept of “life chapters” and how our priorities shift as we age. At that time (in my early forties), I was looking forward, with more runway ahead of me (as a friend often says) than I do now (in my early sixties).

I’ve become acutely aware of the passage of time and, as a result, what matters to me has shifted. The shift:

Becoming Purpose driven vs Plan driven…

At this juncture in my life, having a specific plan doesn’t feel the same as it once did. Historically, each January, I’d pen my SMART goals…what I wanted to do and by when. I loved that level of specificity and, for a good long while, I needed it. A container and a direction to keep me on track. Give me a strong SMART goal, a spreadsheet, a calendar and I was happy, felt safe and secure. I knew where I was headed.

Ironically, though, I’m trying to be less SMART now and more intentional…less rigid and more fluid. I’m not really sure what has fostered this shift but I definitely feel it. I seem drawn to not knowing where I’m headed (even though I resist it at the same time). A sense of wonder has emerged (and some anxiety). I do believe that years of structure and having laid a strong foundation have allowed me the luxury of being open to the possibility of not knowing. I don’t take that privilege for granted, in the least.

So, now, instead of solely asking myself “what” and “when” I’m also trying to practice my “why”…I say practice because it doesn’t come naturally nor easily. That being said, it feels worth it to add this into the mix.

Depending on where you’re at, what’s your what, when and why?