What is life without meaning?
Imagine if you woke up one day, and got out of bed only to feel stiff. Your neck moved only up and down, and your body made rigid movements. You finally make it up to the mirror in your bedroom and notice that you have turned into a robot.
Somehow, the information that relays through your brain that is now a circuit does not evoke any feelings. The only next thing you find plausible is to do the work, chores, and responsibilities as per what you have been programmed to do.
Your functionality would be justified if you were a machine that only needed input to function.
But is this what it means to live without meaning? We know the answer.
However, it’s not just about performing a function. It’s about giving meaning to it, and attaining a higher goal in life—one that goes beyond self-programming and preservation. It is about what we all look for in this world – the transcendence of sorrow and the attainment of eternal peace.
This is where reason and passion come into play. The great poet Kahlil Gibran wrote in his book, The Prophet, “Rest in Reason, Move in Passion”.
Allow reason to be your ‘why’ behind all action while ‘passion’ fuels the journey.
Finding your path to peace: A V.I.P. Approach
Our lives are journeys toward self-discovery, and a crucial part of this finding is our purpose.
This purpose fuels us, giving our actions meaning. It is born from the intersection of reason (why we do something) and passion (what truly excites us).
Once we have a purpose, aligning it with our values (how we choose to act) solidifies our identity. It’s when our actions reflect what we believe in that we feel truly fulfilled.
The V.I.P. Framework
Based on my observations and learnings, let me share what V.I.P. stands for:
Values, Identity, and Purpose which is a framework for understanding ourselves.
- Values (How): These are our guiding principles, the compass that directs our actions towards our purpose.
- Identity (Who): This is who we become when our purpose and values align. It’s the unique expression of ourselves in the world.
- Purpose (What): This is the driving force, the reason why we do what we do. It often stems from a desire to make a difference or contribute something meaningful.
Many of us share a common goal: inner peace. This V.I.P. approach helps us find it. By aligning our reason, passion, and values, we can build a life that transcends negativity and fosters a sense of calm and fulfillment.
In this whole cycle, our Spiritual Quotient (SiQ) plays a role in strengthening these forces within us. It represents our connection to a higher purpose or meaning, further intensifying our V.I.P. journey.
As Kahlil Gibran said, ‘Rest in Reason, Move in Passion.’ Let his words guide you as you discover and refine your own V.I.P. framework, ultimately leading you toward a life of purpose, peace, and fulfillment.
