Practice makes purpose.

The other day my son said “Why is the saying ‘practice makes perfect?’ Shouldn’t it be ‘practice makes better,’ since no one’s perfect?” He’s nine with the mind of a much older man trapped in his body, and I cherish every conversation we have together.

I told him that I agree 100%, and maybe there’s a little more to it, too. Certainly I practice my communication and leadership skills so that I can become a better Palliative Care doctor just like he practices his trumpet to become a better musician. But there’s so much more to it.

Living a life of practice – accepting that you can always learn more and grow more and better yourself – sets you firmly on a path toward purpose. Of course, purpose can be whatever you want it to be, and it’s different for each person. And it certainly doesn’t have to be tied to your work. Personally, I practice the things that give my life meaning: being a better father and husband, being a better writer, and being a better Palliative Care doctor.

Find the things that give your life purpose and meaning, and practice them. And if you’re not sure what gives your life purpose, then look for the things you keep returning to, the things you come back to again and again, the things you hope to get better at because you love them so much and because you must.