Getting Clear on Your Calling and Purpose

Let’s start with a little honesty.

I had a conversation with a business leader last week who, by all external measures, had “made it.” His company was thriving, his team respected him, and financially, he was doing just fine. But when I asked him if he felt fulfilled in his work, he hesitated.

"Honestly? I don’t know. I feel stuck. I’ve built something great, but is this really my calling?"

I’ve heard this same sentiment from so many high-achieving leaders. Maybe you have, too. You’ve worked hard, you’ve hit your goals, but deep down, you wonder: Is this what I’m meant to be doing?

This week, we’re diving into a powerful distinction that can bring clarity to your leadership and your faith: the difference between calling and purpose. Because once you understand how God has uniquely designed you—and what He’s calling you into—everything changes.

Inside this month’s LEADing Diligently newsletter:

✔ How to get clarity on your unique calling
✔ Two simple journaling questions that help unlock your purpose
✔ Why waiting for the perfect moment is holding you back

Let’s dig in.

Have you ever felt like you’re just going through the motions—moving from one task to the next without a clear sense of purpose? You’re not alone.

Finding Clarity in Your Calling

We all hit moments where we stop and wonder, Am I really where I’m supposed to be? Maybe you’ve spent years building something meaningful—a business, a career, a reputation—but deep down, there’s this nagging question: Is this truly my calling, or have I just been following the next logical step?

Clarity doesn’t always come in a flash of insight. More often, it’s found in the small, faithful steps we take forward. It’s in recognizing that calling isn’t about chasing a title or waiting for a perfect moment—it’s about responding to God’s invitation in this season of your life.

So how do you know if you’re walking in your calling or just moving through the motions? It starts by understanding the difference between calling and purpose.

Let’s break it down.

What’s the Difference Between Calling and Purpose?

We often hear people say they’re searching for their calling, but what does that really mean? Is it about finding the perfect job, launching a business, or stepping into a leadership role? Not exactly. Calling and purpose are deeply connected, but they’re not the same thing. Understanding the difference can bring clarity and direction to your life.

• Calling is not a title or identity—it’s a summons to serve. (Think of it like a phone call—are you picking up?)

• Purpose is your unique design—how God created you to function. (Think of it like a hammer—built for a specific function.)

• It’s easy to assume that a job title, career success, or a particular position defines our calling. We think that if we just land the right role, we’ll feel a deep sense of fulfillment. But that’s not how calling works. It’s not about what you do—it’s about how you respond to God’s invitation in your life. But calling is so much bigger—it’s God’s personal invitation to step into something beyond ourselves.

• Big Question: What is something you feel summoned to do that is bigger than you?

How to Find Clarity in Your Calling

Journaling Exercise – Two Reflection Questions:

1. What burden do I feel that both excites and scares me? (This helps reveal where God may be summoning you.)

2. Who in my life has affirmed a calling or purpose in me? (Sometimes, others see our calling before we do.)

• Write these down and reflect. Calling is often confirmed through obedience and wise counsel.

• Take Action:

  • Take one bold, intentional step today—no matter how small—that moves you closer to the calling God has placed on your heart.

  • Reach out today to a mentor, friend, or leader who has affirmed your purpose—ask them what they see in you and how they believe God is calling you to step forward.

• Diligent leaders don’t wait for perfect clarity—they step out in faith.

• Calling isn’t about waiting for a perfect moment—it’s about responding when God calls, even if it’s inconvenient or stretches us beyond our comfort zone.

Take Small Steps in Faith:

• Start leading where you are.

• Steward what’s in front of you.

• Trust that clarity follows obedience.

Bible Scripture Reflection

Topic: Are You Delaying What God is Calling You to Do?

Hebrews 4:7 – "Today if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts.” KJV

God speaks to us in ways big and small—through Scripture, through people, through a quiet nudge in our hearts. But how often do we hear His voice and hesitate? We tell ourselves, 'I’ll do it later' or 'I’ll act when the timing is better.' The problem is, later often turns into never.

So often, we put things off—not just tasks, but the things God is impressing on our hearts. Convictions. Inspirations. A calling to be obedient.
We tell ourselves:

• I’ll pray more tomorrow.

• I’ll start reading my Bible more seriously next week.

• I’ll reach out to that person when the time is right.

But what if today is the day God is calling you to act?

Procrastination in our spiritual life is dangerous because it creates a pattern. The more we delay, the more our hearts become resistant. Over time, we stop sensing that gentle nudge altogether.

Instead of waiting for the perfect moment, let’s recognize that now is the moment. If God has been prompting you to pray, to step forward in faith, or to draw closer to Him, don’t push it aside.

Application - Let’s Put This To Practice

At LEAD Diligently, we believe growth isn’t just about business—it’s about leading well in every area of life: professionally, spiritually, and personally.

This week, take one intentional step in obedience:

• Spiritually – Take a moment to pray with your spouse or kids today.

• Professionally – If there’s a difficult conversation you’ve been avoiding, have it with grace and courage.

• Personally – Reach out to a friend or mentor and encourage them in their walk.

God isn’t asking for perfection—He’s asking for obedience. And when we walk in step with Him, we experience the joy, peace, and clarity that only comes from saying yes to His call.

That’s it for this month’s LEADing Diligently newsletter—I’ll see you again next month!

If today’s message resonated with you, I’d love to hear your thoughts. Just hit reply and let me know: What’s one small step you’re taking toward your calling this month?

Next month: From Clarity to Courage: Taking the Next Step in Your Calling

— Paul Harstrom

P.S. If you’re looking for deeper clarity in your leadership and purpose, here are a few ways to work with me:
✔ Executive Coaching & Advisory Services
✔ CEO & Emerging Leader MasterMind Groups
✔ Strategic Leadership Consulting
✔ 2-3x Your Business – Systematize and Scale for Sustainable Growth

Want to learn more? Reply to this email or visit my website