1.1 Drawing Your Adaptive Map
An "Adaptive Life Map" is a flexible framework rooted in self-awareness and spiritual purpose that helps individuals navigate life’s changing seasons with clarity and partnership with God.
The Journey to Purpose
Have you ever wondered if your life has a deeper purpose, something beyond the everyday routine? What if you could craft a personal map that helps you navigate life’s challenges with clarity and peace? The concept of an Adaptive Map is designed to help you discover your calling, understand your purpose, and move with confidence, no matter where life leads.
1. What is an Adaptive Map?
An adaptive map is more than just a plan—it's a flexible framework that adjusts as life changes. Unlike traditional maps that get outdated, this approach evolves with your experiences, allowing you to respond to new circumstances with faith and clarity.
2. Purpose is for Everyone:
Your calling isn’t reserved for leaders or the spiritual elite. According to Ephesians 4, all believers are called to live a life worthy of the calling they’ve received. Each person, regardless of role, has a purpose in God’s plan—whether in family, work, or community.
3. Experience Shapes Perspective:
The map of your life isn’t static. It shifts as you grow, much like parenting a second or third child—each new experience builds on the previous one. The key is understanding where you are emotionally, mentally, and spiritually so you can continue to grow.
Creating an adaptive map empowers you to embrace the fullness of your calling, wherever you are in life. It’s about finding your direction with the flexibility to move through life’s seasons, understanding that purpose is always evolving, and trusting that you’re not navigating alone.
1. What is an Adaptive Map?
An adaptive map is more than just a plan—it's a flexible framework that adjusts as life changes. Unlike traditional maps that get outdated, this approach evolves with your experiences, allowing you to respond to new circumstances with faith and clarity.
2. Purpose is for Everyone:
Your calling isn’t reserved for leaders or the spiritual elite. According to Ephesians 4, all believers are called to live a life worthy of the calling they’ve received. Each person, regardless of role, has a purpose in God’s plan—whether in family, work, or community.
3. Experience Shapes Perspective:
The map of your life isn’t static. It shifts as you grow, much like parenting a second or third child—each new experience builds on the previous one. The key is understanding where you are emotionally, mentally, and spiritually so you can continue to grow.
Creating an adaptive map empowers you to embrace the fullness of your calling, wherever you are in life. It’s about finding your direction with the flexibility to move through life’s seasons, understanding that purpose is always evolving, and trusting that you’re not navigating alone.
Discussion Questions
- How do you perceive your own life's journey when using the metaphor of a map? How has this perspective changed in different seasons of your life?
- What are some 'clarity markers' that you recognize in your current life situation? How do these markers influence your next steps?
- Josh talks about maps that 'will not break'. What does a flexible or adaptable life strategy look like to you?
- Reflect on a time when your life ‘map’ didn’t seem to work. How did you adapt or what did you learn from that experience?
- What role does community or guidance play in your own journey of understanding and following your calling?
- If you were to design an adaptive map for your life, what key elements or experiences would you include to make it resilient and effective?
- How do you interpret the phrase 'history rhymes' in relation to personal growth and understanding one's purpose?
Participate in the conversation.
This podcast is a companion to the book Map Your Life Mission (download for free or buy on Amazon). Trent and Josh tell stories, ask personal questions, develop the Adaptive Map framework, and connect the Biblical narrative in each episode.