The Blue Pages

The last section on Richard Bolles' book What Color Is Your Parachute? is dedicated to helping the reader figure out what is their mission in life. Bolles uses a religious/Christian approach to tackle this subject. I am not a religious person. As I was reading "The Blue Pages," I tried to find out ways to relate to the material. Here's the summary of what I got out of it:

1. Reflect on Your Unique Gifts

Bolles encourages readers to look inward and identify their unique skills, talents, and passions. The idea is that each person is endowed with specific gifts, and understanding these is the first step toward realizing one's life mission. I highly recommend everyone that will listen to me to take Gallup's CliftonStrengths Online Assessment. I have made a blogpost dedicated to finding your strengths before. You can check it out here.

2. Consider How Your Gifts Can Serve Others

Bolles places a significant emphasis on how one's talents and passions can be used to serve or benefit others. Through this process, I've learned I am a pessimist when it comes to how I see myself. However, I am an optimist when it comes to human nature. Bolles and I share this belief as he suggests that finding true purpose often involves looking beyond oneself to see how one can contribute to the well-being of others or society at large.

3. Seek Guidance and Clarity

In the context of "The Blue Pages," seeking guidance might involve prayer or meditation, asking for clarity and direction in understanding one’s purpose. For those not inclined towards religious practices, this can translate to introspection or seeking feedback from trusted friends or mentors to gain insights into one’s strengths and potential paths. Networking is important. Finding people who you admire and would like to emulate in one way or another is a great way of seeking guidance (and of making those very important bridge people connections!).

4. Experiment and Explore

Bolles encourages trying new experiences and stepping out of your comfort zone as a way to discover your passions and potential paths. This might involve volunteering, taking on different job roles, or pursuing new hobbies to see what resonates with your core interests and values. Apply this concept to your "normal" life and hobbies! 

5. Be Open to Change

Recognizing that one’s sense of purpose may evolve over time is crucial. Bolles highlights the importance of being open to change and ready to adapt your path as you grow and as the world changes around you. 

picture taken from Reader's Digest website

6. Make a Plan and Take Action

Once you have a clearer sense of your purpose, the next step is to make a practical plan to pursue it. This involves setting goals, identifying resources, and taking concrete steps towards realizing your mission. It will not be a fast and ready process. Not unless you have known your entire life what your calling is. So don't be discouraged! 

7. Trust the Process

Finally, Bolles emphasizes the importance of patience and faith in the process of discovering and living out your life’s purpose. It’s a journey that may involve uncertainties and challenges, but trusting in your ability to find and fulfill your mission is key.

Even for those who do not share Bolles' religious perspective, like myself, the underlying principles in "The Blue Pages" can be adapted to everyday life. The focus on self-discovery, service to others, and the pursuit of passion are relevant to anyone seeking a meaningful and fulfilling life path.

Remember, finding your purpose in life is a journey. There is not quick formula to figuring it all out. Make mistakes, explore your options, try out new industries, say yes to the things that interest you, but above all, make sure you stay true to your values and beliefs.