Have you ever felt a sense of restlessness, a nagging feeling that there’s something more out there for you? Maybe it’s a vague desire for greater purpose in your career, a yearning for deeper connections, or simply the urge to experience life in a bolder way. This feeling, this subtle discontent, is what we like to call “hunger” in the context of playing a bigger game in life.
As part of my ongoing exploration of the bigger game framework by Rick Tamlyn, this post will dive deep into the hunger component. Hunger is often misunderstood, and seen as a negative, insatiable craving. However, properly understood and channeled, hunger becomes the powerful engine that fuels personal growth, achievement, and an ever-expanding, fulfilling life.
What is Hunger?
In the context of playing a bigger game, Rick Tamlyn defines hunger as a deep, persistent yearning for something more. It’s a desire for meaning, growth, or a greater contribution to the world. Unlike fleeting wants or surface-level desires, hunger is a feeling that resonates on a visceral, gut level.
Here’s a key distinction: you might want a fancy car or a bigger house, but your hunger is likely tied to deeper aspirations. Maybe you hunger for a career with real impact, fulfilling relationships, or the freedom to fully express your creativity.
It’s perfectly normal for your hunger to feel vague or undefined at first. It might simply manifest as a sense of dissatisfaction or a feeling that there’s something missing. The first step is acknowledging that feeling of hunger and allowing yourself to explore what it might be trying to tell you.
Recognizing Your Hunger
Hunger doesn’t have a one-size-fits-all form. It’s a personal experience that expresses itself in unique ways for each individual. Your hunger might center on career ambitions, a longing for deeper relationships, a pull towards creative pursuits, or a desire to make a difference in the world. To tap into your own hunger, pay close attention to the areas of your life where you feel a persistent sense of longing or where something simply feels lacking.
Here are some potential signs that you might be experiencing the pull of hunger:
- Restlessness or a sense of being unsettled, even if you can’t pinpoint why. This might manifest as a low-grade dissatisfaction, even if your life looks good on paper. You might find yourself consistently asking “Is this all there is?”.
- Feeling bored or uninspired in your daily life. If routine has taken over and there’s little to spark your enthusiasm, this could be a sign that you’re not being challenged or engaged in a meaningful way.
- Experiencing envy or a deep sense of admiration for people who seem to be living with purpose and fulfillment. While healthy admiration is different from destructive envy, taking notice of those who inspire you can illuminate areas where your own life may feel lacking.
- Daydreaming about an alternative life or a different path. These fantasies are potent signals! Pay attention to their themes – they might reveal hidden aspirations or unfulfilled desires.
- Possessing a sense that you’re not living up to your full potential. If you have a nagging feeling you’re capable of more but aren’t stretching yourself, this is a clear indication it’s time to delve deeper into your hunger.
From Hunger to Action
Hunger is a potent fuel for playing a bigger game. It’s the inner drive that propels you forward, pushing you to seek growth, fulfillment, and a greater sense of purpose. While hunger itself doesn’t provide all the answers, it serves as a powerful starting point on your journey to meaningful change.
Here are a few tips to help channel your hunger into productive action:
- Journaling: Start by writing down everything you’re feeling – your frustrations, desires, and the vague stirrings of possibility. Putting these thoughts on paper can help bring clarity to your hunger.
- Exploration: Dip your toes into potential areas of interest. Take a class, try a new hobby, or read about topics that spark your curiosity.
- Seek Guidance: Talk to a trusted friend, mentor, or a coach. Getting an outside perspective can be invaluable in identifying where your hunger might be leading you.
- Take Small Steps: Don’t be overwhelmed by the grand vision. Start by taking small, actionable steps in the direction of your hunger. These steps will build momentum and create a clearer path forward.
Remember, the journey from hunger to fulfilling your potential isn’t always linear. Allow yourself the space to explore, experiment, and even change direction as you gain more understanding of the bigger game you want to play.
Start Embracing Your Hunger
Within the bigger game framework, recognizing and embracing the call of your hunger is a fundamental step. While it may feel uncomfortable at first, that discomfort signals that you’re ready to move beyond your existing boundaries.
Are you ready to explore your untapped potential and play a bigger game? As a leadership development coach, I help people connect with their hunger, gain clarity, and take actionable steps toward the life they want. Contact me today to learn more!