I'm going to ask you a question and hold the space for you to sit a moment in reflection. I want you to try your best to ignore the impulsive desire to read on. I know you're busy and that's why I'm so appreciative of the fact you've taken a couple minutes to spend with me. One thing I bet we both have in common is a list of things we think we should be doing. Put that list aside and let us explore the power of asking, what is necessary and true about where you are right now? How does it feel to embrace this present reality?

From an early age, I adopted a belief like many of us that achievement, success, and knowledge only come from working batshit-crazy hours. Keeping up with the pace of modern culture is a major contributor to record burnout rates. A laundry list of projects and dreams further overwhelm you when they fizzle out. Battling with this tug-of-war mentality of wanting to do more great work but still live a happy, healthy, purpose-driven life drew me into seeking the knowledge of those before me. What I discovered may surprise you. You can get more done when you work less.

Where were you a year ago compared to where you are today? How different does your life look? My life received a transplant from a person I had no idea I could be. The core-shaking experiences I faced could play out in one of two ways with a single decision. Life was happening to me, or life was happening for me. It was preparing me for a life I never knew I could have. It forced me to decide for the first time in my life, what the hell was important to me right now?

We often rely on external circumstances to define our purpose in life, which leads to disappointment, frustration, and a lack of fulfillment. By turning our focus inward and asking the right questions of ourselves, we can identify a personal mission that gives deep meaning to our lives. This essay will help you get started with this important process.

In 1967, Hunter S Thompson spent an entire year living and riding with the Hells Angels motorcycle gang in order to write a first-hand account of the lives and experiences of its members. But fifty years ago, when Thompson was 22, he wrote a letter to his friend in response to a request for life advice. It might just be the best damn advice you'll hear for finding your purpose and living a meaningful life.

I became an uncle last week. At 10:43 a.m. on Thursday, a healthy 7-pound 4-ounce girl entered our world. It's a surreal experience as a brother to have your sister give birth. As a new life of possibility enters the world, it made me think, what are you capable of accomplishing in your life?