Unveiling My Purpose: A Personal Journey to Rediscovering My Why
- Shelby Haskell
- Mar 17
- 5 min read
Life is a journey filled with unexpected turns and challenges that can leave us feeling adrift. In these moments of uncertainty, the question often arises: “What’s my purpose?” Rediscovering your “why” can be a guiding light, helping you steer your decisions and actions toward what aligns with your core values. This post shares the significance of remembering your why through personal reflections and insights.
The Power of Purpose
Understanding your personal "why" is essential to navigating life. This inner purpose represents your motivations and drives, providing clarity and direction. When we reconnect with this sense of purpose, we experience belonging and fulfillment that stand out amid the daily grind. However, as life progresses, distractions can make it easy to lose sight of our true purpose.
For instance, during a challenging time in my life, I felt overwhelmed and lost. I began to question every major decision I had made, submerged in a fog of self-doubt. It was in this tough period that I realized rediscovering my why was not just important—it was vital for my emotional well-being.
Reflecting on My Journey
To reconnect with my purpose, I decided to write a letter to myself. This letter detailed my passions, motivations, and ambitions. The act of writing helped me organize thoughts that had previously swirled chaotically in my mind.
Here’s an excerpt from that heartfelt letter:
Dear Shelby,
If you're reading this letter, it means you're in one of those seasons where you're questioning everything—why you're here, why you keep going, and what the point of it all is. Maybe you’re feeling like you don't have what it takes to stay at the top, or perhaps you're lacking passion. Whatever the case may be, I want you to know that I'm here to encourage you through it all. I know you better than anyone, and I see the magic that unfolds when you step on stage. I feel the butterflies you experience and the adrenaline you crave. You put in months of work, all for just a few short minutes on stage, but it’s always worth it. Let me tell you why.
Think back to when you first started competing—you were 21. At the time, competing was never something you had envisioned, but you loved the possibility of becoming something more, something greater. For you, competing was about crafting a new version of yourself. Every workout, every healthy meal, every time you chose to silence doubt and push through, you chipped away at the old, embracing the new. From the start, you wanted to relate to the everyday person. You wanted to inspire and encourage others to keep going. Your mindset was, If I can do it, anyone can do it. Competing was never just about looking good for you; it’s about the feeling you get when you know you gave it your all. It’s about pushing past doubt, insecurity, and meeting a new, stronger version of yourself.
Your why is simple: You compete to inspire others. You compete to live a healthy lifestyle—not just to look good, but to feel good and be the best version of you. It’s the internal transformation that happens each time you step on stage. You’re learning to rely on God more with each competition. Every time you compete, you're introduced to a new level of Shelby.
Competing is your safe space. In a world full of chaos and uncertainty, it's a place you can always return to. When Estefan passed away, you could’ve chosen unhealthy coping habits—eating poorly, drinking, staying in bed. But even when you didn’t feel like it, your routines took over. You kept doing what was good for you because you knew it would bring you one step closer to the person you want to be.
In those moments when you’ve felt stuck, unmotivated, or not beautiful or feminine, competing has a way of reminding you who you truly are. On stage, you get to express a soft, fun, and feminine side of yourself. You get to be creative every time you pose, design a costume, or pick a theme for the season. Remember, competing isn’t just about winning trophies (though we all love those!). It’s about doing your best, and that best will vary from show to show. Competing isn’t about comparing yourself to anyone other than who you were yesterday. Most of all, it’s about pride. You are part of a small group of people who willingly push beyond their comfort zones and step into the magic of the unknown.
You promised yourself to stay natural, and you’ve done an amazing job. Keep following God’s path, and He will open all the doors you need to succeed. You were chosen for this. Chosen to shine, chosen to be a light. You, Shelby Brooke, were handpicked for this time and place. Keep being excellent in everything you do. It’s okay to feel tired, but don’t ever give up. I love you, and I believe in you. Hold on to your magic—your positivity, your bubbly nature, and your belief that with God, all things are possible.
With all my love and support,
Shelby
Writing that letter reignited my passion and solidified my commitment to my goals. Taking the time for reflection brought clarity and motivation back into my life.
Tips to Reconnect with Your Why
Here are some effective ways you can reconnect with your why:
Daily Affirmations: Each morning, remind yourself of your purpose through written or spoken affirmations. Repeating these can reinforce your core values and intentions.
Mindfulness Practices: Regular mindfulness or meditation can help you stay grounded in the present. These practices allow you to focus on your passions and interests as you cultivate clarity about your purpose.
Nature Walks: Spending time outdoors can refresh your mind and heart. A simple walk in nature can spark insights and help you reconnect with your deeper self.
Journaling: Create a journal for expressing your thoughts, feelings, and aspirations. This ongoing dialogue with yourself can spotlight your passions and illuminate the path you wish to follow.
Visual Reminders: Build a vision board to visually represent your goals and values. Having tangible reminders can inspire and motivate you as you pursue your dreams.
Embracing the Journey Forward
Rediscovering my why is an ongoing journey that requires commitment and a willingness to evolve. Life will present new challenges, but with my purpose firmly in mind, I feel better equipped to confront them.
Understanding your why can transform your life—it fosters resilience and encourages you to pursue your dreams, even when obstacles arise.
The Path to Self-Discovery
The journey of uncovering and remembering your why is deeply personal and transformative. By reflecting on your motivations and nurturing them, you create a path driven by intention and clarity.
As I look to the future, I commit to consistently realigning myself with my purpose. I encourage you to reflect on your own reasons for being and nurture that understanding. Remember, your why is a compass that guides you toward a purposeful and fulfilling life.
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