Three Powerful Words That Will Transform Your Life
Last Updated on August 26, 2025 by Stacy Averette
Life is full of everyday tasks that can feel mundane, tiresome, and even overwhelming at times. Whether it’s doing the dishes, folding laundry, answering emails, or running errands, many of us find ourselves approaching these tasks with a sense of “I have to.” But what if we could approach them from a different perspective—one that fills us with joy and enthusiasm? What if we could shift from “I have to” to “I get to” by reconnecting with our original purpose for doing these things?
This simple shift in mindset can transform our approach to the everyday moments and allow us to honor God, live with intention, and experience true joy, even in the most mundane tasks.
The Power of Perspective
As Christians, we are called to approach everything we do with a heart of service to God. Colossians 3:23-24 tells us: “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.”
This verse reminds us that no task is too small or insignificant when we do it for God. Whether we’re working on a big project at church, taking care of our families, or handling the seemingly mundane things like household chores, we are always serving the Lord. Reconnecting with our purpose to serve God through our actions can help us approach every task with joy.
The “I Have To” vs. “I Get To” Shift
The difference between “I have to” and “I get to” is more than just a change in words—it’s a shift in the attitude of our hearts.
When we say, “I have to,” we focus on the obligation and the burden of the task. We feel weighed down by the demands of our day, and our attitude tends to become one of resentment.
However, when we say, “I get to,” we embrace the opportunity in every moment. It’s a reminder that we have a choice in how we show up in the world. We have the privilege to serve, to love, and to contribute in meaningful ways, no matter how ordinary the task may seem.
The three powerful words–“I get to”— will transform your life, but how does this shift in attitude and perspective happen? By reconnecting with your original purpose.
Reconnect with Your Original Purpose
One key to choosing joy and enthusiasm in all aspects of life is to reconnect with your original purpose for doing what you do. What was the reason you started? Why did you choose to care for your home, your family, or your work? Often, when we become bogged down in routine, we forget why we began in the first place.
To reignite your enthusiasm, ask yourself these questions:
- Why did I start this task in the first place?
- Why did I take this job?
- What is the purpose behind what I’m doing?
- How can this task or job help me serve others or make a positive impact?
- What is one small way I can bring joy to someone else through this task or job?
- How can I honor God in this moment?
- How does this task or job contribute to the larger vision or goal I have for my life?
Revisiting your original purpose can help you regain a sense of meaning and enthusiasm. Whether it’s caring for your home, raising your children, or fulfilling your responsibilities at work, you can choose how you approach it. You have the power to show up with joy and gratitude, and this choice transforms even the most mundane moments into opportunities to grow in purpose.
Jesus and the Ordinary
Jesus, too, knew the value of embracing the ordinary. While His ministry was filled with miracles and profound teachings, He also spent many years living a quiet life as a carpenter. In doing so, He showed us that even the most mundane activities can carry great significance when we do them with love and purpose.
In Matthew 25:21, Jesus says, “Well done, good and faithful servant… You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much.” This reminder shows us that our faithfulness in the ordinary tasks matters to God. When we embrace joy in the little things, we can trust that He is pleased and that He sees the significance in all of our actions.
The Eternal Impact of the Ordinary
Reconnecting with our original purpose helps us recognize that even the smallest tasks have an eternal impact. Every chore, every responsibility, every routine can be an opportunity to serve, love, and grow. It’s not just about the outcome—it’s about how we approach the process.
In 1 Corinthians 10:31, we are reminded: “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” This verse reminds us that every action, no matter how small, can be an act of worship when we do it with the right heart and mindset.
To help you think through your original purpose and embrace the “I get to” attitude, I’ve created a printable list of questions for reflection. Use this as a tool to reconnect with the meaning behind your everyday tasks and choose joy in the process.
Reconnecting with Purpose: Reflective Questions
Take a moment to reflect on the following questions before starting your day or any task:
- Why did I start this task in the first place?
- What is my deeper purpose behind this activity?
- How does this task contribute to my overall goals?
- Who can I serve or bless through this task?
- What would it look like to do this task with joy today?
- How can I honor God in this moment, even in the ordinary?
Conclusion
The tasks of everyday life are full of opportunities to reconnect with our purpose, honor God, and serve others. By shifting our mindset from “I have to” to “I get to,” we embrace joy and enthusiasm in the ordinary. Reconnect with your purpose, and choose today to show up with intention, joy, and a heart full of gratitude.
Remember: You don’t just have to do the things you do; you get to do them—and that makes all the difference.
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