“The meaning of life is to find your gift. The purpose of life is to give it away.” — Pablo Picasso

What a beautiful idea. In just two sentences, Picasso captures two of life’s greatest quests: discovering what makes us unique and using that gift to make a difference.

But how do we actually live this out? How do we find our gift — and once we do, how do we give it away in a meaningful way?

Let’s get practical.

1. Pay Attention to What Lights You Up

Your gift usually shows up where your energy rises. What activities make you feel alive? What could you talk about for hours? Notice the patterns — they often point straight to your natural talents.

2. Reflect on What Comes Easily to You

Sometimes we overlook our gifts because they feel “too easy.” What others struggle with might come naturally to you. That’s a clue. Your gift often lives where your abilities feel effortless but create real value for others.

3. Ask Others What They See in You

Friends, family, and colleagues often notice strengths we miss. Ask a few people you trust: “What do you think my strengths are?” You might be surprised by the common threads you hear.

4. Develop Your Gift Through Practice

Finding your gift isn’t a one-time moment of clarity. It grows through practice. Dedicate time to hone your skills, deepen your understanding, and polish the unique way you express your gift to the world.

5. Look for Ways to Serve, Not Just Succeed

Once you’re confident in your gift, shift your focus outward. How can your gift help someone else? Whether it’s teaching, creating, encouraging, healing, or leading — your gift isn’t meant to be kept to yourself.

6. Volunteer Your Talents

You don’t have to wait for a paid opportunity to use your gift. Volunteer. Mentor someone. Offer your skills to a cause you believe in. Sometimes the greatest impact happens quietly, behind the scenes.

7. Create Opportunities to Give

Don’t just wait for the perfect opportunity — create one. Host a workshop. Start a blog. Offer a free class. Write a heartfelt letter. Giving your gift doesn’t have to be grand; it just has to be generous.

8. Remember, Giving Grows the Gift

Something amazing happens when you give your gift away: it multiplies. The more you share it, the more it grows — not just in you, but in others too.

9. Stay Humble and Open

Your gift is powerful, but it’s not about making yourself look good. It’s about making the world better, even in small ways. Stay grounded and grateful for the opportunity to give.

10. Trust That Your Gift Matters

It’s easy to doubt. Will it really make a difference? Does anyone even care? The answer is yes. Even the smallest act of giving can ripple out further than you can imagine.

Final Thought:

Finding your gift gives your life deep meaning. But giving it away? That’s where life’s true purpose — and true joy — are found.

Start today. Find your gift. Grow it. Share it. Watch how it changes not just your life, but the lives around you.