Welcome, friends! If you’ve found your way here, you’re likely on a path of self-discovery, career transition, or rebranding your life with a deeper sense of purpose. You’re in the right place. Here at the Take2Project.com and the Follow Your Why podcast, we help professionals uncover their unique “Why” and live with intention. 

Today, we’re going to dive into the courage it takes to follow your Why once you discover it. Because while discovering your purpose is exciting, the real work begins after that. It’s a journey full of challenges, doubts, and a fair share of fear. But it’s also a journey that can transform your life—and the world around you.

The Hero's Journey: A Call to Something Bigger

You’ve probably heard of the "hero’s journey," that timeless narrative arc that shows up in everything from ancient myths to modern films. Movies like Star Wars or The Lord of the Rings all follow this archetype: the hero is called to a higher purpose, faces intense trials, and ultimately transforms the world around them.

In a very real sense, following your Why mirrors this journey.

Think about the story of Moses and the burning bush. He was a shepherd, living a comfortable life—until a burning bush caught his attention. The bush was alive and spoke to him, telling him that he was chosen to lead his people out of Egypt. What did Moses do? He questioned everything: "Who am I?" "I’m not qualified." "I’m too small for this."

And yet, that was the moment that launched his journey.

Your journey to follow your Why will look a lot like that.

Once you discover your true purpose, it’s rarely an easy path. It’s not a one-time revelation that suddenly makes life smooth and simple. In fact, it’s often the opposite. The doubts, the fears, and the resistance you feel are normal. You may even feel like Moses, thinking, “I’m not qualified for this. I don’t have the skills.” But just like Moses, you’ll need to step into the unknown, face your fears, and find the courage to follow your calling.

The Problem with a "Self-Centered" Purpose

Here’s something important to address: In today’s world, you might have come across phrases like “purpose-driven life” or “finding your calling.” And you might have wondered, “Isn’t my purpose just about being happy? Isn’t it about living my best life?”

While there’s some truth to that, true fulfillment goes beyond mere happiness or comfort. Your Why isn’t just about what feels good or making your own life easier. It’s about leaving a mark on the world. It’s about making an impact that challenges the status quo and stretches you beyond your current limits.

True purpose is about doing something bigger than yourself.

Think of people in your life who seem truly fulfilled. Do they have everything they want materially? Maybe—but it’s more than that. The people who have authentically impacted you are likely the ones who have committed to something bigger than themselves.

Purpose doesn’t revolve around your own happiness—it’s about how you serve others and make a difference.

The Struggle After Discovering Your Why

Okay, so you’ve discovered your Why. Now what?

This is where the real challenge begins. The hero’s journey always involves a moment of departure—when the hero decides to leave the safety of the familiar and step into the unknown. For you, that might mean leaving behind a stable job, a comfortable routine, or the expectations that others have for you.

And here’s the kicker: You can’t grow unless you leave the comfort zone.

As Henry Blackaby said in Experiencing God, “You cannot stay where you are and go with God.” (Of course, you can replace “God” with “your calling,” “your purpose,” or “your Why.”)

To follow your Why, you must be willing to step into the unknown. You must choose to trust your instincts and listen to that inner voice guiding you forward. This is where the real work starts.

What’s on the Other Side of Courage?

If you’re wondering whether it’s worth it—let me assure you, it is.

My mom, who lived into her late 80s, used to say, “Getting old isn’t for wimps!” Following your Why isn’t for wimps either. It’s hard work. But the rewards are immense.

When you step into your calling and begin walking the path meant for you, everything changes. Your perspective shifts. Your actions become more intentional. You start to experience a deeper sense of alignment with your life and your purpose.

The world won’t get easier, but you’ll get stronger. You’ll become more capable and confident in your ability to make a lasting impact. The key here is that true fulfillment comes from doing work that’s bigger than yourself—work that transforms you and transforms the world around you.

Final Thoughts: Courage Is the Key

As we wrap up, I want to leave you with a thought: The journey of following your Why is not an easy one. It requires courage—courage to step into the unknown, to face your fears, and to embrace the challenges that come with living a life aligned with your purpose.

But this journey is the one that gives life meaning. It’s the journey that leaves a legacy. And even in moments of doubt or fear, remember this: You are capable. You have everything inside of you to follow your calling and make a meaningful impact.

Remember, it’s not for wimps. But if you’re ready, it will be the most rewarding journey of your life.

3 Mindfulness Exercises to Help You Overcome Fear and Step Into Your Purpose

Overcoming fear is a crucial part of following your Why. It’s easy to get stuck in the “what ifs” and let your doubts hold you back. But mindfulness can help you ground yourself, reconnect with your purpose, and step forward with courage. Here are three simple mindfulness exercises to help you face your fears and move towards your calling:

1. Breathing into Courage

Find a quiet space where you can sit comfortably. Close your eyes and take a few deep breaths, letting your body relax with each inhale and exhale. As you breathe, visualize the fear or doubt that’s holding you back. Picture it as a dark cloud, hovering over you. Then, as you breathe in, imagine the courage you need flowing into your body, dissolving the fear with every breath. With each exhale, release the tension and negativity. Repeat this for five to ten minutes.

2. Body Scan to Release Tension

Fear often manifests physically in our bodies. A great way to counter this is through a body scan. Lie down in a quiet space and slowly bring your attention to each part of your body, starting from your toes and moving up to your head. As you focus on each part, notice where you feel tension or discomfort. Gently release that tension with each exhale, imagining the fear leaving your body. This practice can help calm your mind and create space for courage to grow.

3. Affirmations for Alignment

Write down a few affirmations that align with your purpose. For example:

• "I am capable of following my Why."
• "I have the courage to step into my calling."
• "Every step I take brings me closer to my purpose."

Sit quietly with these affirmations and repeat them to yourself, either out loud or silently. As you do, picture yourself walking confidently toward your purpose, knowing that you are supported by your own strength and inner wisdom. Practice this daily to remind yourself that you are ready for the journey ahead.

If you’ve taken steps in following your why, similar to the affirmations above, you can review affirmations you’ve received from mentors and good friends as you’ve started your journey. Basically, remind yourself that fear is often a liar. The words of those who have your back can be a great counter attack to fear.

Ready to start your hero’s journey? Embrace the challenge, step into your courage, and trust that the world needs your unique contribution. I’m here to help guide you as you follow your Why and create a life filled with meaning.