Listening to Your Heart:

A Path to Meaningful Living

There’s an old song by Roxette that says, “Listen to your heart when it’s calling for you.” And while that may sound like a simple sentiment, I believe there is a profound truth in it—one that goes beyond fleeting emotions or momentary desires.

When I talk about listening to your heart, I don’t mean chasing every impulse or whim that arises. I’m talking about tuning in to the deeper wisdom within you—the part that speaks to your truest self, your calling, and the legacy you are meant to leave in this world.

Each of us is a gift. We are infinitely precious and unconditionally loved, not for what we achieve or accomplish, but simply for who we already are. And yet, each of us also carries something unique to bring into being—something that is ours to offer.

But how do we listen to our hearts in a way that leads us toward that deeper purpose?

1. Slow Down and Make Space

The world moves fast. Our lives are filled with distractions, obligations, and noise. But in order to hear the quiet voice of our hearts, we have to create space for stillness.

When we slow down—whether through meditation, quiet reflection, or simply unplugging from the constant stream of demands—we become more aware of what’s stirring within us. This isn’t just about a single moment of clarity, but about cultivating a habit of listening over time.

What would it look like to carve out even a few moments each day to simply be?

2. Look for the Patterns

Often, our heart’s deepest callings show up as recurring themes in our lives. What are the things you keep coming back to? The passions, ideas, or causes that seem to follow you, no matter where life takes you?

If you journal, look back through past entries and see what keeps surfacing. If you pay attention to the affirmations of those around you, you might notice a pattern in how people recognize your gifts. The things that light you up and make an impact on others may hold clues to what your heart is guiding you toward.

3. Pay Attention to Your Body’s Signals

Our bodies often know what our minds hesitate to accept. When you are engaged in something that aligns with your purpose, do you feel a deep sense of peace, energy, or clarity? Conversely, when you are out of alignment, do you feel resistance, anxiety, or exhaustion?

Not every calling is easy, but it resonates in a way that feels right at the core of your being. That feeling of deep alignment is a sign worth noticing.

4. Find the Courage to Follow Where It Leads

Listening to your heart isn’t always easy. Sometimes, it calls us toward something that disrupts our comfort, challenges expectations, or requires us to take risks. The path of least resistance may feel safer, but it often leads us away from what is most meaningful.

There is vulnerability in following your heart because it means putting your truest self on display. When we live out of pretense, rejection doesn’t feel as personal. But when we step into who we truly are, the possibility of rejection feels deeper. That’s why it takes courage to trust our hearts and live authentically.

But here’s the truth: You are enough. Your voice, your gifts, your presence in this world—it matters. And stepping into that truth, even when it’s uncomfortable, is part of the journey toward a life of deeper meaning.

5. A Simple Reflection Practice

If you’re wondering where your heart is leading you, here’s a simple exercise to try:

• Reflect: Think of a time when you followed your heart and it led to something meaningful.

• Pause: What keeps nudging at your soul lately? What’s that persistent thought or longing that won’t go away?

• Act: What’s one small step you can take to move toward that calling?

Being True to Your Heart

Listening to your heart isn’t about chasing every feeling—it’s about discovering what is deeply, truly lasting and meaningful.

So I leave you with this blessing:

May your heart be true to you, and may you be true to your heart. May you have the courage to follow where it leads, the wisdom to discern what is lasting, and the trust to know that you are already infinitely precious and unconditionally loved for the gift you are.

Now, take a breath. Listen. And see where your heart is calling you next.