I’m a firm believer that we all have a very specific contribution that we are meant to make to the world – something that only we are qualified to deliver. Some call it a gift, or perhaps our purpose, while others refer to it as our calling. Either way, it’s something that fills up our soul and fills a void in the world.

For some, it seems effortless. They slip into that role and it’s clear that they are doing what they are supposed to be doing and there was never another option. But that’s certainly not the norm. Most of us don’t have that clear vision.

Discerning our calling isn’t necessarily something grand and romantic either. Not everyone is meant to, nor wants to, find a cure for cancer or win the Nobel Prize. All work, from massage therapy, to make-up artistry, to social entrepreneurship, to teaching children is equally noble and needed in this world.

Not surprisingly, our callings often have healing effects on something or someone — it could be Mother Earth, children, other adults, but there is no doubt it helps to heal us as well.

We talk about purpose a lot here on Thin Difference, and we understand that not everyone knows what their calling looks like. It seems to be one of the most illusive realities today.  And it makes sense because many of us have more freedom to chose where we are headed than ever before. We are free to create our own destiny.

But we are also rational, and often times have limited resources. We do what we have to do to support ourselves, our  families, pay off debt, etc. Life isn’t all about the easy road.

Luckily for us, this reality doesn’t change the fact that we are here today to share our gift, and we can only outrun our calling for so long before it shows up on our doorstep.

Signs Your Calling is Calling

Today I’m sharing 5 signs that your calling, or purpose, is trying to get your attention in subtle ways.

1. You spend months counting down days until vacation.

There is always going to be additional excitement when a vacation is coming, but if your only sense of happiness is derived from that one vacation every year, your calling is likely waiting for you to discover it.

2. You spend more and more time zoned out on the computer/phone and television.

Are you finding yourself increasingly detached from your life and reality? If yes, then it may be time to step back and contemplate your path.

3. You stay in your comfort zone and avoid new friendships.

When we get older it can become easy to stay in our safe zones and avoid having to make new friends. By getting too comfortable with your current relationships you’re also avoiding moving forward with life and allowing the next phase to begin. You’re putting a cap on whom and what may come into your life. Your calling needs you to keep that zone wide open.

4. You feel jaded about your current field or profession.

If you’re beginning to feel negative about something you once had passion for, it may be time to look outside of what you are doing. No work or schooling is ever a waste, it’s all a layer to build on moving toward your calling.

5. You feel jealous of other’s satisfaction with their work.

When you feel negative about someone living their dream, it can often indicate you’re not satisfied with your own work. It’s extremely common, and most likely it’s not even the particular work they are doing that you are envious of — it’s their lifestyle or happiness level.

Any of these ring true to you? If so, read more of our past posts about finding your purpose. There is plenty of wisdom to be found that may help you on your journey!