Insider Insight: Fulfillment is a Choice We Make

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Simply put, FULFILLMENT means to be fully alive.

As one of Embrace's seven corporate values, we expound upon the definition of fulfillment as follows: fulfillment comes from deep satisfaction or happiness which is in alignment with one's values and purpose. Fulfillment in the workplace creates a positive energy, and aliveness, and a sense of accomplishment, which lead to more rewarding experiences and greater productivity.

In taking a closer look, it is best to break down this definition into segments so that we may develop a more complete understanding of the concept. Fulfillment comes from deep satisfaction or happiness which is in alignment with one's values and purpose. The great thing about leading a fulfilling life is that it is a choice we can make. Note that fulfillment is not about having material things. Material possessions, admittedly, are nice, but the satisfaction that comes from "owning" something is fleeting. People who experience the greatest sense of fulfillment are those who have gone through difficult times and struggles, and have been brought back to their core values. Times of struggle are often times of tremendous growth.

As people grow older, they often question whether or not they have led a fulfilling life. What does a fulfilling life look like? From the outside, it looks like people are lit up; they are vibrant. From the inside, it is where there is harmony; everything resonates because your thoughts and actions are in alignment with your values. The problem for most is that our fear is often stronger than our desire for fulfillment. We get pulled away from our core values by any variety of dysfunctional behavior that is born out of living a life in fear, instead of pursuing a fulfilling life. The stressors of everyday modern life prevent us from enjoying wholly fulfilling experiences. These "saboteurs" take people off the well-intended path of fulfillment. Missteps could be as simple as trying to take shortcuts, or not having the courage (another Embrace value) to make tough choices. But fear not; there are ways you can stay true to the path of fulfillment.

In addition to honoring one's core values, there is also something else to guide us: our individual life purposes. Many people just go through the motions each day, directionless. These are the same people who will likely have regrets on their death beds. A defined life purpose statement is often described as a rudder to keep people from drifting too far away from that which is truly important to them. Life purpose often speaks to what a true life legacy can be. It is about the difference one will make in this lifetime, and the positive impact it will have on others. We at Embrace feel so strongly about the profound impact defining one's life purpose can have on both career and personal life, that we offer the Purpose Discovery Workshop to all employees to help them pursue the more fulfilling life they so desire.

Fulfillment in the workplace creates a positive energy, and aliveness, and a sense of accomplishment, which lead to more rewarding experiences and greater productivity. People often hear me use the term dharma. Dharma is a very powerful Sanskrit word that has various meanings, including "path," "teaching," "law," "vocation," and "sacred duty." The most important meaning of all; however, is "truth." Without getting too deep, leading a fulfilling life is very much about living in-tune with your own truth, which consists of your gifts and your values. Imagine experiencing each day with the desire to help others navigate through a challenge that many consider one of the most stressful life experiences: purchasing a home! As mortgage industry professionals, bringing our core values into play along with our life purpose, guarantees a more fulfilling life, both personally and professionally. Remember, fulfillment is choice. You can be fully alive in everything you do by remaining true to yourself and your mission.