Start with Contextual Purpose

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In "Be Your Future Self," I find an interesting mental model: contextual purpose. This is important to the author, Dr. Benjamin Hardy. He cites Dr. Viktor Frankl as a shining model for this approach of crafting purpose. 

According to Dr. Benjamin Hardy, when Dr. Viktor Frankl helped his fellow prisoners define a purpose, he wasn't helping them define an overarching life purpose. He was helping them define a purpose that saw them through their life in a concentration camp. In other words, the purpose is contextual. Once they go out of that prison camp, they can define another purpose that takes them through their new life. 

To reiterate, this mental model champions purpose that fits a context. Of course, I need a contextual purpose. For example, I need to methodically craft a writing career. To that end, I must start shipping out my products immediately.  Blogging provides an immediate avenue along this long journey towards mastering the craft.  

Of course, it takes more than regular blogging to
craft a satisfying and meaningful life.  However, I believe it gives me traction along one aspect of my life: craft.  Other parts of my life will require similar focus and dedicated work.

For now, however, I shall commit to publishing at least two blog posts a week.  As I stive to honor my commitment, I shall strive for progress and not perfection.


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