Imagine this: you’re sitting in a comfortable chair, a steaming mug of coffee in your hand, and the sun is streaming through the window. You feel a sense of contentment, a quiet peace settle over you. It’s not just the cozy surroundings, it’s a deep sense of alignment within yourself. You are living the life you’ve always wanted. This is the kind of life John Ortberg, the beloved pastor and author, invites us to embrace. He is not just talking about finding a comfortable existence, he’s talking about discovering your true north, your purpose, and living in alignment with your deepest values.
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Ortberg’s book, “The Life You’ve Always Wanted,” is not a self-help guide filled with shallow promises of quick fixes. It’s a heartfelt invitation to slow down, reflect, and rediscover the inner compass that has been guiding you all along. This book is a journey of self-discovery, a reminder that true happiness comes from living a life that aligns with your true self, the person God created you to be.
The Journey Begins Within
Ortberg doesn’t offer easy answers or shortcuts. He believes the journey to the life you’ve always wanted starts with a deep dive into your own heart. He invites you to ask yourself honest questions: What are your deepest desires? What brings you joy? What are you afraid of? Answering these questions honestly is the foundation upon which you build a life that is authentically yours.
This journey is not about chasing external validation or striving for a life that looks perfect from the outside. It’s about connecting with your true self, understanding your own unique story, and embracing the person you are meant to be. This means accepting your flaws, embracing your vulnerability, and learning to trust your own inner voice.
Rediscovering Your Spiritual Compass
Ortberg’s book is steeped in his deep faith, but his message is applicable to everyone. He believes that every human being has an innate longing for something beyond the material. This longing is a spiritual yearning, a call to connect with something greater than ourselves.
This doesn’t necessarily mean subscribing to a specific religion. It’s about recognizing that we are part of something bigger, that there is a source of love and guidance beyond ourselves. Whether you call it God, the universe, or simply your own inner wisdom, connecting with this source is essential for finding meaning and purpose in life.
Living in Alignment with Your True North
Once you have a clear understanding of your values, your spiritual compass, and your true self, then you can begin to build a life that is truly yours. This doesn’t mean changing your entire life overnight. It’s about making small, intentional choices that reflect your values.
Ortberg emphasizes the importance of living in alignment with your core beliefs. If your purpose is to make a difference in the world, then seek out opportunities to contribute. If your value is family, then prioritize spending time with those you love. These small, daily choices, when repeated over time, create a life that is authentic and fulfilling.
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Actionable Steps to Finding Your True North
Ortberg’s book provides a roadmap for finding the life you’ve always wanted. He offers practical guidance through his “Living the Life You’ve Always Wanted” framework:
- Know Yourself: Spend time reflecting on your strengths, weaknesses, values, and passions. What are the things that bring you joy and fulfillment?
- Find Your Purpose: Explore different avenues to discover your unique contribution to the world. What are you called to do?
- Build Strong Relationships: Nurture meaningful connections with family, friends, and community.
- Embrace Your Spiritual Life: Whatever your beliefs, find a way to connect with something greater than yourself.
- Develop Your Character: Cultivate the qualities that will help you live a life of integrity and purpose.
These steps may seem daunting, but Ortberg emphasizes that the journey is not about reaching perfection but about continuous growth and learning. It’s about being present in the moment, appreciating the journey, and trusting that you are exactly where you need to be.
John Ortberg The Life You’Ve Always Wanted
Embracing the Journey
As you embark on this journey of self-discovery, remember that it’s okay to make mistakes. It’s okay to feel lost at times. The important thing is to keep moving forward, to stay connected to your true self, and to never give up on the life you’ve always wanted. You may not have all the answers today, but by being open to learning and growing, you are stepping closer to the life that is truly yours.
“The Life You’ve Always Wanted” is a powerful reminder that true happiness is not a destination but a journey. It’s about living in alignment with your true self, embracing your purpose, and finding joy in the everyday moments. As you embark on your journey, remember that you are not alone. You have the support of your loved ones, the guidance of your inner compass, and the promise of a life that is truly yours.