Most of us grow up with some idea of what we want to do with our lives, or at least the feeling that there may be a specific calling ahead. However, desperation, complacency or lack of clarity can lead us into jobs that don’t give us the buzz or satisfaction we’d expected. If you’re pursuing a calling rather than just a job, this article is for you.
- Primary versus secondary callings. For some, the main calling in life is having a family. This is a fantastic calling to have, and one the human race relies on. For others, family life is a secondary calling. Maybe you’re a talented musician or a gifted speaker. Maybe your chief aim is to help the homeless or the exploited. Make a list of all your potential callings and then work out which is your primary goal. Does it equate to a realistic job or is it something you can do in your spare time?
- Prioritise your time. It might be that your primary calling is charity fundraising, but at the moment you’re working in the accounts department of your family business. The two roles seem to be poles apart. While you can’t simply up and leave your current role, there may be ways to work towards your chief aim. What related skills or qualifications do you already have? How could your past experience provide a stepping stone into your target industry? Who do you know that might offer you a helpful introduction or trial opportunity? Could you be using evenings and weekends to focus on your calling?
- Pray for guidance. It might be that God wants you right where you are for the time being. Perhaps he wants you to reach a particular person or group through your current role. Ask him to lead you towards your calling if this isn’t it. He knows the desires of your heart and what’s best for you, so trust his guidance. Ask friends, family and church members to pray for wisdom.
- Be prepared. It might be that your calling presents itself in an unexpected way, or sooner than expected. It’s important that you don’t miss it! It may be worth taking training courses, shadowing someone in a similar role or simply updating your CV in anticipation. Use social networks like LinkedIn to make connections with influential people and attend networking events.
- Do your homework. Find out everything you can about the calling you’re pursuing. Is it UK-based? Outdoors or indoors? Who will you be working with and for? Will you need to work long hours? Travel? Give presentations? Are the rewards monetary or spiritual? Is it a lifelong calling or just for a season? How will it impact your loved ones? You may not be able to answer all these questions right away, but the more research you do the better-informed you’ll be.
We spend around 60% of our lives working, so it’s important that we don’t simply settle for the easiest option. No job is perfect, but some are more fulfilling than others. If you feel you have a calling on your life, spend time thinking and praying about it. It may take time to get there, but it’ll be worth it when you do.
