Episode 156

156 - Finding Purpose Beyond the Material

156 - Finding Purpose Beyond the Material

The thought-provoking book "Things that Matter" by Joshua Becker. In it, the author challenges us to rethink our relationship with material possessions and work and to find purpose in our lives beyond just chasing individual success.

One of the author's key points is that owning less can actually lead to greater freedom and happiness. By focusing on owning the right things that serve a purpose in our lives, rather than just accumulating stuff, we can find more fulfillment and joy. It's all about asking ourselves if each item we own promotes a purpose, rather than simply asking if it sparks joy.

I explore the role of work in our lives. He argues that work should not be viewed as a necessary evil, but as a way to show love to others and contribute to society. By finding the intersection of our abilities, passions, and the needs of others, we can find true purpose in our work and make a positive impact on the world.

I can definitely relate to these ideas. I've personally experienced the benefits of decluttering and finding purpose in my work, and I believe that helping others and being kind is more important than achieving individual success. That's why I'm so passionate about encouraging listeners like you to take small steps toward finding your purpose and using your gifts to make a positive impact on the world.

So, what do you think? Do you agree with the author's ideas? Have you tried decluttering or finding purpose in your work? I'd love to hear your thoughts and ideas, so feel free to share them with me through email or Twitter. Let's rebel against societal norms prioritizing selfishness and materialism and take control of our time to create a better world together!

https://startwithsmallsteps.com/?p=3721

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7TgZbvLvTJI

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Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com

About the Podcast

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Start with Small Steps
Thoughtful personal growth through small, realistic steps you can use in everyday life.

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About your host

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Jill McKinley

I’m Jill from the Northwoods. Professionally, I work in Health IT, where I untangle complex systems and help people use technology more effectively. But at heart, I’m a curious lifelong learner—always exploring how things work, why people grow the way they do, and how even the smallest steps can spark real transformation. That curiosity fuels everything I do, from problem-solving at work to sharing insights through my creative projects.

My journey wasn’t always easy. Growing up, I faced a rough childhood, and books became my lifeline. They introduced me to voices of ancient wisdom, modern psychology, and the natural world around me. Those pages taught me resilience, gave me perspective, and helped me see that wisdom is everywhere—waiting to be noticed, gathered, and shared.