What Do You Want to Be When You Grow Up?

Years ago, I had the opportunity to teach a group of 15 young adults, ages 14-16, about yoga and Ayurveda. When I asked them what they wanted to be as they grew older, some were uncertain, but most confidently shared specific jobs, titles, and areas of interest. Their responses revealed a sense of ambition and curiosity about their future roles.

But when I followed up with a different question—who they wanted to be in the world—the room filled with thoughtful silence. Some weren’t even sure how to approach the question. We explored this topic further, and I was struck by how much longer it took for them to reflect on their inner purpose compared to their career aspirations.

Conscious Choices Shape Our Life Journey

Every day we’re alive, we’re given the chance to choose how we behave, respond, and engage with the world. Our daily decisions influence our personal growth, alignment with core values, and overall self-awareness. Are we consciously making choices, or are we on autopilot, letting external factors and old habits dictate our actions?

Consider all the steps you’ve taken to arrive at your current point in life. Do they reflect your desired path toward mindfulness, purpose, and inner peace? Who are you spending time with, and do those interactions foster spiritual growth and contentment?

Ask yourself:

  • Are deep-seated desires and inner growth being overshadowed by fear or guilt?

  • Are you sacrificing important core values for societal expectations?

  • Is your life driven by authentic passions, or are you merely fulfilling obligations?

Even if you’re living the life you dreamed of, there’s always room for self-development and expansion.

Questions to Deepen Self-Discovery

Here are some reflective questions to help you uncover or realign with your purpose and personal ethics:

What Activities Bring You Into a Flow State?

A flow state is when you lose track of time, feel fully engaged, and perform tasks with ease and joy. Activities that bring you into this state often hold the key to unlocking your passions and long-term fulfillment.
👉 Prioritize activities that help you achieve this state regularly.

Have You Reassessed Your Core Values Lately?

Our values can evolve as we grow. Regular reflection on your personal ethics can help ensure you’re living authentically and not bound by outdated beliefs.
👉 Make time to assess and strengthen your core values. I highly recommend Jim’s workshop Intro to Ancient Texts on March 1st as a way to deepen your understanding of historical wisdom and connect it with your personal growth journey.

Are You Engaging in Environments That Nurture You?

The places we visit, the people we meet, and the activities we engage in should bring us joy, peace, and inspiration.
👉 Spend more time in environments that nourish your spirit and contribute to your personal development. Attend classes in person at Tejas Yoga or explore our On Demand offerings to stay connected and inspired, no matter your schedule.

Moving Beyond What We Do to Who We Are

When we take the time to consider who we want to be—kind, compassionate, diligent, or inspired—our life journey tends to naturally reveal the what in terms of career, goals, and passions.

Mindfulness practices like meditation, journaling, and breathwork can help us stay grounded and

Live to Thrive.
Know Your Significance.
Show Diligence in Matters of the Spirit.

Next Steps:

Whether you’re new to yoga or well-versed, our in-person and virtual classes guide you to align your mind, body, and soul.

James Tennant