I didn't realize it at the time, but the seeds of a new purpose-focused company, Arctos360, were sown 9-years ago and maybe even earlier. During this time in my life, I was able to "check the boxes" of the things I wanted at this stage of my professional life. Surrounded by talented business partners, we benefited from an abundance of opportunity and sold our business. Then, in 2012 we decided to jump back into the entrepreneurial waters again but this time with the freedom to pursue whatever it is we desired. But then something unexpected happened: rather than ushering in a period of professional creativity and satisfaction, I struggled to identify work that was personally meaningful. This left me feeling unmotivated, unfulfilled, and physically drained.
I kept my pursuit for purpose to myself for more than 7 years. I didn't feel like I was in a position to complain so I did not utter a word of it. Outward life was good, and I was the provider for my family. “Shut up and keep trudging forward,” I thought. But I found a spark of my old drive when I was doing the inner work required to identify with purpose. Slowly, over time I realized that searching for my purpose gave me purpose and served as a new-found source of energy and inspiration. I took advantage of any spare time I could muster to dive into this quest, jumping from topic to topic, and spending countless hours in what must be one of the most circuitous routes of all-time. Then, once I found the courage to start talking about my situation, my path became clearer.
Talking with people helped me get out of my own thoughts so that I could see the forest from the trees, and it was at this point I realized that I could have taken a much more direct path than I did. While the route I took was difficult, it gave me a unique perspective on how I can help others find purpose and meaning in their lives. It was with this realization along with the encouragement and support of my business partners that Arctos360 was born. The core program we developed, LifeWorks, not only reflects my experience but incorporates in the collective experience of the amazing team at Arctos360. We have created an online experiential program that weaves in learning, self-reflection, coaching and community support in a way that helps people uncover hidden passions and discover new opportunities that are meaningful. Had this program existed for me 9 years ago I wholeheartedly believe that I would have been able to connect with purpose much sooner. Over the coming weeks we will be sharing more insights into what it means to find purpose and how you can align it with your vocation. Whether you choose to work with us or not, it is my sincere hope that we can help you on your own purpose journey.