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The Purpose of Your Life
A book which starts with the premise that people are born with a purpose, which constantly unfolds and guides them toward the expression of their true selves. It then goes on to give guidance on finding and understanding individual life designs with case histories of people who have already done so.
288 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1998
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
March 9, 2019
It's a good book to motivate one in the direction of finding one's true purpose in life. Agreed. However, can it be done by reading the instances of other people? No, sir! It has to be your own intuition (if we at all believe intuitions to be the guides). Srimad Bhagwad Gita, the holy book of Hindus and the ones who believe in Lord Krishna, says that one has to do Karma even if the fate is decided by Narayana. So, more than intuition and 'uncommon' sense, a person needs to apply common sense and do his or her duty.
I have nothing against the book. I am just not in favour of the opinions advanced in this one.
I have nothing against the book. I am just not in favour of the opinions advanced in this one.
April 19, 2010
Carol Adrienne is really on to something. She knows that working with intuition as a way to find your way in this world is just as valid as using the mind. I tend to lean more toward intuition and synchronicity anyway, so this book spoke to me and helped me make some major life-transition decisions that turned out to be completely right. A great alternative to all the other career/what should I do with my life books out there.
May 5, 2009
There are some views in here which might not appeal to everyone (reincarnation, believing you choose your body, etc.) but that didn't bother me personally. There was a lot of useful information in this book on how to let your intuition guide you and how to let go of revenge desires.
September 23, 2015
The co-author of The Celestine Prophecy: An Experiential Guide has branched out by herself and written her own book on spiritual insights. I bought this book when it was still hot off the presses, but something put me off, and 15 years later, I still hadn't read it. So I thought it's about time that I did as I'm going through a purge of my bookshelves, and anything unread and unliked will be sold or given away.
There are a few concepts presented here that are really helpful: the ripple effects of positive thinking, meditation to calm the mind and body, and a clear detachment when trying to achieve things. However, I'm struggling to find more good things to say about it. Mostly it's written in the standard glib, cliched spiritual awakening style, the primary audience being affluent middle-aged ladies having a mid-life crisis. It lacks any real depth to its message, giving outrageous significance to coincidences, analyzing problems by anthropomorphizing them instead of presenting any constructive problem-solving strategies, and talking about human behaviour and thought patterns in a rather naive, uninformed way, making an awful lot of unfounded assumptions based on overdramatic anecdotes. Basic human psychology, in terms of learning processes and how people influence others, is explained as "affecting energy fields" and other hackneyed pop-psychic expressions, rather than references with a scientific basis to back it up. This is ironic, considering that the author does mention Jung on several occasions, and treats the idea of the ego as a real thing to be tamed and controlled. Of course, the concepts of neo-Freudian psychology are a bit too abstract to be classed as strictly scientific, but it does show that Adrienne is familiar with the field and therefore should be able to use up-to-date knowledge to bring more credibility to her thesis.
It is never stated explicitly, but there is a strong implication that those that find their meaning will want to drop out of whatever mindless work they're doing "just for a paycheck" to have a creative career doing unconventional things such as running a hippy coffee shop, teaching literature to executives, or working with disadvantaged youth. While these may be worthwhile pursuits to some, there is a certain arrogance in the inference that the people doing this are in some way "better" than those who do not choose to do so until they reach their spiritual epiphany.
I can see why I didn't read this book for a long time - I probably started it soon after purchase and quickly got fed up with its facile spirituality mixed with well-known psychological concepts to give it a kind of faux legitimacy. As I said, it contains a few good ideas, but in terms of effectiveness, the overall presentation needs a bit more work and a little less conceit.
There are a few concepts presented here that are really helpful: the ripple effects of positive thinking, meditation to calm the mind and body, and a clear detachment when trying to achieve things. However, I'm struggling to find more good things to say about it. Mostly it's written in the standard glib, cliched spiritual awakening style, the primary audience being affluent middle-aged ladies having a mid-life crisis. It lacks any real depth to its message, giving outrageous significance to coincidences, analyzing problems by anthropomorphizing them instead of presenting any constructive problem-solving strategies, and talking about human behaviour and thought patterns in a rather naive, uninformed way, making an awful lot of unfounded assumptions based on overdramatic anecdotes. Basic human psychology, in terms of learning processes and how people influence others, is explained as "affecting energy fields" and other hackneyed pop-psychic expressions, rather than references with a scientific basis to back it up. This is ironic, considering that the author does mention Jung on several occasions, and treats the idea of the ego as a real thing to be tamed and controlled. Of course, the concepts of neo-Freudian psychology are a bit too abstract to be classed as strictly scientific, but it does show that Adrienne is familiar with the field and therefore should be able to use up-to-date knowledge to bring more credibility to her thesis.
It is never stated explicitly, but there is a strong implication that those that find their meaning will want to drop out of whatever mindless work they're doing "just for a paycheck" to have a creative career doing unconventional things such as running a hippy coffee shop, teaching literature to executives, or working with disadvantaged youth. While these may be worthwhile pursuits to some, there is a certain arrogance in the inference that the people doing this are in some way "better" than those who do not choose to do so until they reach their spiritual epiphany.
I can see why I didn't read this book for a long time - I probably started it soon after purchase and quickly got fed up with its facile spirituality mixed with well-known psychological concepts to give it a kind of faux legitimacy. As I said, it contains a few good ideas, but in terms of effectiveness, the overall presentation needs a bit more work and a little less conceit.
March 18, 2024
HIGHLIGHTS:
1. Be willing to let failures be just as important as successes, in that they give you further info about yourself and the world.
2. Surrender = being patient and trusting God, “receptively”
3. We attract people who fit into our blind spots, so we can work on our healing.
4. By consciously aligning yourself with our values, you are directly in touch with how to live your purpose.
5. Accept change. Let it show you were to go.
6. If you can’t make up your mind completely about a choice, neither option is truly the best one.
7. Within the boundaries of your beliefs, you can create your dreams and desires.
8. Don’t make decision while in a low mood. View is negative. Relax instead! Don’t make logical decisions with emotions.
9. Patience: for we are not in a hurry, yet there is no time to waste. When there seems to be so much to transform within ourselves, we can become impatient with the process. The process is in Spirit’s knowing and capable hands, we simply need to be patient with ourselves, stay focused and see the perfection of the unfolding of our Highest Self in every moment.”
10. Pursuit of Loving Relationships: We are in human form for the growth of our spirit. The soul’s transcendence is only possible through the human/earthly realm. The greatest growth comes through learning to give and receive unconditional love and to heal any selfishness created by the identification with the ego. the greatest asset on this path is self-love…All those being that cross our path are there for our reflection for they are simply just another You!”
1. Be willing to let failures be just as important as successes, in that they give you further info about yourself and the world.
2. Surrender = being patient and trusting God, “receptively”
3. We attract people who fit into our blind spots, so we can work on our healing.
4. By consciously aligning yourself with our values, you are directly in touch with how to live your purpose.
5. Accept change. Let it show you were to go.
6. If you can’t make up your mind completely about a choice, neither option is truly the best one.
7. Within the boundaries of your beliefs, you can create your dreams and desires.
8. Don’t make decision while in a low mood. View is negative. Relax instead! Don’t make logical decisions with emotions.
9. Patience: for we are not in a hurry, yet there is no time to waste. When there seems to be so much to transform within ourselves, we can become impatient with the process. The process is in Spirit’s knowing and capable hands, we simply need to be patient with ourselves, stay focused and see the perfection of the unfolding of our Highest Self in every moment.”
10. Pursuit of Loving Relationships: We are in human form for the growth of our spirit. The soul’s transcendence is only possible through the human/earthly realm. The greatest growth comes through learning to give and receive unconditional love and to heal any selfishness created by the identification with the ego. the greatest asset on this path is self-love…All those being that cross our path are there for our reflection for they are simply just another You!”
February 28, 2016
This was an inspiring book for me, until I tried to apply it to my own life. Full of stories and instances of amazing people that have reached out with their intuitive selves and achieved / followed synchronistic hints from the universe, the text invites its reader to his own practice, and his own reward of cosmic direction. As with many books of this type, Adrienne's book filled me with a longing and a sense that something was sorely missing in my life. Why hadn't I found my direction? Why am I not able to follow these techniques, to take these risks, to change my life into something fantastic and mysteriously wonderful? What's wrong with me, and when will my life take some kind of miraculous holy shape?
Over time I looked back and saw that Adrienne's directives and stories, however valid and true they may be, are just not necessary, and they may indeed be frustrating for many people. The book may create a desire for something that isn't appropriate for this or that person.
My life has gone in wonderful directions without the esoteric thinking and practices of this book. I respect and congratulate anyone who is able to mysteriously, intuitively connect to life's purpose, but I also know that the universe can draw purpose out in ways that are even more subtle.
Over time I looked back and saw that Adrienne's directives and stories, however valid and true they may be, are just not necessary, and they may indeed be frustrating for many people. The book may create a desire for something that isn't appropriate for this or that person.
My life has gone in wonderful directions without the esoteric thinking and practices of this book. I respect and congratulate anyone who is able to mysteriously, intuitively connect to life's purpose, but I also know that the universe can draw purpose out in ways that are even more subtle.
April 20, 2018
A very insightful read to help those struggling to find their own path. It had several graphs and interactive segments that helped. This was technically the second time I read this-but I did not finish it on the first time through. I did like the ways it suggested to help you help yourself. I did struggle with the personal stories as I found them hard to relate to. Having said that, I will keep this book to reference all the other parts.
August 23, 2018
Valutazione relativa all'edizione italiana
November 10, 2022
Just read it
Worth reading and truly studying in order to find your purpose.
Work through the questions and really get to your true self.
Worth reading and truly studying in order to find your purpose.
Work through the questions and really get to your true self.
March 6, 2024
Some inspiring stuff, but not enough of a structure to grab and hold me. dnf
August 18, 2011
Carol Adrienne is a pretty good writer. I was interested in her life story, but I couldn't particularly relate to it. I wanted more actual ideas and theory and things I could do to help me, and less focus on her story. Some of the activities were thought provoking and rewarding. She also had some good resources listed in the footnotes. No bibliography, however, which was frustrating. A bibliography would've made it faster to find the particular resources that I was looking for in terms of my future reading. I think that people who enjoyed the Celestine Prophecy (which I haven't read) may like this book. It wasn't particularly what I was looking for, although it wasn't awful by any means.
October 12, 2010
Due to Adrienne's connection to James Redfield, I thought this would be a great book. In fact, I reserved the book at the library and got on a waiting list to read it.
I was, however, disappointed. Carol's life story was uninspiring, as she talked about getting married and divorced several times, and then talked about working as a cleaning lady.
While there are dozens of rags-to-riches stories out there, she just didn't write in an empowering way.
I didn't even finish the book.
I was, however, disappointed. Carol's life story was uninspiring, as she talked about getting married and divorced several times, and then talked about working as a cleaning lady.
While there are dozens of rags-to-riches stories out there, she just didn't write in an empowering way.
I didn't even finish the book.
September 3, 2008
I liked the provocative questions at the end of each chapter - I answered these in a journal, an exercise that gave me insight into patterns that have occurred in my life history. While I saw the patterns, not sure if I'm having much success in empowering myself using synchronicity, as the book suggests. At any rate, if thoughts make reality I must remain optimistic!
April 21, 2012
I bought this for a friend and ended up reading it myself :-) Even if you know what your dream is, it is helpful to read the sections that help you affirm what you want to do. Basically, stay positive and look for signs from the universe! There were quite a few anecdotes. I enjoyed the practical advice best, as you can apply it to your own life.
December 12, 2015
- A good book with some interesting exercises...But I found the beginning much better than the ending...The last few chapters kind a' dragged...Although the parts about obstacles and the shadow shelf are important concepts, it should have been moved towards the middle of the book, not the end...It made the ending kind a' flat.
January 27, 2011
There are a bunch of books on my shelves that I acquired to read "someday", for some that day is longer than others. This is one of those, read as a kind of New Year's resolution. It had some interesting thoughts, but I also found it hard to stay interested in. I'm still glad I finally read it.
August 5, 2012
This book has truly affected the way I live my life. At times perhaps a little too new age-y for me personally but terrific overall. I have returned to its core message over and over as I navigate the unsettled waters of middle age.
January 31, 2008
If you enjoyed the Celestine Prophecy, you will enjoy this true-to-life guide to intuition and our own journey and purpose. You don't have to be a spiritual hippy to love it and apply it!
July 3, 2008
I love this book so far because it explains some of the things that i have been experiencing for the last 8 months and puts them into the proper perspective. Informative and provocative.
Read
February 5, 2012I like to read new age-y stuff here and there. I find it fascinating.
April 30, 2012
Started reading it 10 years ago, and the pages really hit me hard helping me to make the decision to leave a company that was not right for me. It made a big difference in my life.
January 29, 2012
Excellent guide. Covers many areas to consider when looking at one's life.
May 17, 2012
This book is my go-to "bible" for life, love it!
October 28, 2012
.. this book is a good read when you are in crisis.. there are a couple of chapters that are partilarily good at helping you think thing through...
Read
December 13, 2012This book taught me a lot of things that I was not aware of.
April 16, 2013
I really enjoyed the bulk of this book. I get a bit bogged down in individual case-study/example stories, but almost all of these kept my interest, which is saying something.
July 15, 2022
⭐️⭐️⭐️
June 5, 2012
This was the book that propelled me on the journey to uncover my own life's purpose.
May 3, 2017
For all readers passionate with science and with an analytical way of thinking: avoid this book! It promises a lot, but delivers very little in a logical manner. It delves more into spirituality, meditation and other esoteric fields of knowledge.
The first 10% of the book was an autobiography. Although somewhat interesting, it's kind of useless for a reader who's very different as a person from the author. I mean, if I want to read a book about the purpose of my life, why do I have to read 30 pages about someone else first?
I disliked the way it uses physics to support absurd claims. For example:
So the author infers that the continuous transformation of matter and energy is proof for reincarnation and karma. If you're ok with these kind of fallacies, by all means, buy the book, it has some good advice and can be a nice lecture for some. But if you like to read science, save your bucks and buy something else.
The author actually is ready to believe anyone and anything as long as it corresponds to her belief system:
What is even funnier is that the author helped somebody write a book on finance when she couldn't manage her own finances. I mean, yeah, she proved that she could do a rather difficult thing (writing a book on a subject she doesn't fully comprehend), but I don't see it as a particularly good thing.
The book has some good pieces of advice. I don't like the way they are presented, but I gave the book 2 stars because they sound useful and original. For example, I enjoyed one trick: to toss a coin if you don't know what decision to make. And then take a moment and try to understand the way you feel about the result. This can make you realize what you actually wish to do.
All in all, this is a decent book. I can sympathize with people who really enjoy it, but I also understand those who found it ridiculous. However, what I would like to ask the author is this question: Why do you insist on claiming that everything must happen with a purpose? Why do you believe life would lose its beauty if there was no purpose, only chaos? If humanity would demonstrate scientifically that there is no purpose in life, would you give up on all your pieces of advice? Would all the stories in this book become deprecated?
The first 10% of the book was an autobiography. Although somewhat interesting, it's kind of useless for a reader who's very different as a person from the author. I mean, if I want to read a book about the purpose of my life, why do I have to read 30 pages about someone else first?
I disliked the way it uses physics to support absurd claims. For example:
This unfinished business or karma must be completed in another life. Both physics and metaphysics recognize that matter and energy continually transform, but are neither created nor lost.
So the author infers that the continuous transformation of matter and energy is proof for reincarnation and karma. If you're ok with these kind of fallacies, by all means, buy the book, it has some good advice and can be a nice lecture for some. But if you like to read science, save your bucks and buy something else.
The author actually is ready to believe anyone and anything as long as it corresponds to her belief system:
Someone in one of my workshops said - and I don't know where she got this information - that for every birth, there are ten thousand souls who were vying for that opportunity. Think about it. You were the one who made the cut!
What is even funnier is that the author helped somebody write a book on finance when she couldn't manage her own finances. I mean, yeah, she proved that she could do a rather difficult thing (writing a book on a subject she doesn't fully comprehend), but I don't see it as a particularly good thing.
The book has some good pieces of advice. I don't like the way they are presented, but I gave the book 2 stars because they sound useful and original. For example, I enjoyed one trick: to toss a coin if you don't know what decision to make. And then take a moment and try to understand the way you feel about the result. This can make you realize what you actually wish to do.
All in all, this is a decent book. I can sympathize with people who really enjoy it, but I also understand those who found it ridiculous. However, what I would like to ask the author is this question: Why do you insist on claiming that everything must happen with a purpose? Why do you believe life would lose its beauty if there was no purpose, only chaos? If humanity would demonstrate scientifically that there is no purpose in life, would you give up on all your pieces of advice? Would all the stories in this book become deprecated?
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