Why Are You Here?

One of my favorite questions to ask myself (and others) is both simple and complex at the same time.

Why are you here?

It works in almost any situation, and lends itself to any mood or mindset. Depending on the context, the answer can be as simple as “I need a quart of milk” or as complex as “to be a force for world peace.”

This is a question that cuts through the noise. It’s a great starting point for any goal-setting exercises — much better than “what do you want?” especially since studies show we are bad at predicting what we will want.

Here are some examples of contexts where I use it:

Big Picture Life Purpose

To orient myself to the big picture of my work when I feel lost, Why I am here? becomes a form of what’s my purpose? — shorthand for why am I here in this world? If I’m asking in this context it usually calls for me to review, and possibly revise, my personal purpose statement.

Meetings, Parties, Other Places Where You Show Up

In the middle of a meeting that didn’t need to be a meeting, or a boring party, I might ask myself, internally and in an exasperated tone, Why am I even here?

It either reconnects me with the reason for being there or prompts me to leave at my earliest opportunity.

Workshops and Trainings

I ask this question at the start of the workshops and trainings I lead, and even at the start of my coaching calls or client calls, and I share my own answer. It connects me with my intention for how I desire to show up as a leader and connects my clients or participants to their intentions.

At the start of every webinar, workshop or training I attend, I write this question and my response on the first page of my notebook (or at the top of my notes if I’m taking digital notes), even if the facilitator doesn’t ask it. (I am surprised by how many don’t ask it.)

In the moments when the work gets sticky, or I feel frustrated, I revisit my response.

Shopping

Asking this question before I walk into a store, whether physical or virtual, can keep me from falling down too many rabbit holes. Admittedly, sometimes I need to stop and ask myself this question more than once in that situation.

Practical Mindfulness

Any time you feel lost or get distracted, no matter the context, this question is a practical way to bring yourself back to presence, back to your intention, and back to what matters most.

Why are you here?

Sometimes its a quart of milk. Sometimes it’s to broker world peace. Sometimes it’s just because you are honoring a commitment you made to yourself or others.

There’s no wrong answer — except for not having one at all.

Why are you here?