Finding your purpose can be a fulfilling endeavor. It’s about incorporating meaningful actions into your life gradually and embracing the journey.
Today, we’re exploring a thought-provoking question that has inspired countless individuals: What is my purpose? This concept can seem overwhelming, often feeling abstract and elusive, as if it's something we are forever chasing but never quite capturing.
For instance, you might excel in your job yet feel a disconnect at home. Alternatively, you might cherish family life but feel unfulfilled in your career. You could even wonder if the path you’re on is truly yours or just a random choice.
Here’s a comforting thought: Purpose is not a set endpoint; it’s a journey that unfolds as we grow. Living with purpose is more than a motivating idea; it positively impacts our well-being. A 2023 study revealed that a strong sense of purpose can greatly alleviate depression and anxiety. Additionally, NIH research indicates that a purposeful mindset can even affect our physical habits, encouraging us to exercise not just for health but because we truly believe we can.
So, how do we embark on this journey? How can we identify what drives us, realign our priorities, and consistently ask ourselves: What is my purpose?
Dr. Jordan Grumet offers insights that may surprise you — they’re not as complex as you might think. He debunks three prevalent myths about discovering your purpose and provides actionable steps to take instead.
Myth #1: Discovering Your Purpose Is Simple
If you expect your purpose to strike you like a bolt of lightning, you might be waiting indefinitely. The initial misconception many have is misdefining purpose, often confusing it with meaning. “Purpose is the reason behind our actions,” Dr. Grumet explains, “It involves engaging in activities that we find deeply satisfying.”
Meaning relates more to our past experiences and thoughts, while purpose is focused on our future and the actions we aspire to take to create fulfilling lives.
“The mistake is believing this idea will simply hit us, making life perfect, or that it will completely evade us,” Dr. Grumet continues. “I want to empower people to understand that purpose is something you cultivate in your life.” In essence, purpose isn’t a gift; it’s a skill developed over time.
Myth #2: There’s Only One True Purpose for Your Life
In America, we're often encouraged to chase grand ambitions. We hear that if you can envision it, you can achieve it. However, those lofty goals can be incredibly challenging or unattainable. Dr. Grumet suggests that we should shift our focus to “little p purposes.” So, what differentiates “big P purpose” from “little p purpose?”
“Aiming to cure cancer, amass a fortune, or become President are monumental tasks that usually require all or nothing commitment,” Dr. Grumet notes. “Little p purpose is more about process. What daily actions can you take that excite you and make you feel accomplished?”
Instead of fixating on a singular, distant dream, you could find purpose in mentoring someone, volunteering, or dedicating time to enjoyable hobbies. These smaller moments of purpose create momentum, helping you show up as your best self rather than setting yourself up for disappointment.
Myth #3: Financial Wealth Is Necessary to Discover Your Purpose
If you feel trapped in your job, Dr. Grumet acknowledges that while financial stability can help, it’s not the only avenue. Other resources include your relationships, age, energy, passions, and skills.
For example, “Even if my job isn’t ideal, I could live with my parents at 22, eliminating rent. This would allow me to spend less time in a job I dislike,” Dr. Grumet explains.
He also highlights strategies available to us — the joy of addition, the art of subtraction, and substitution. “Even if you’re stuck in a job you don’t enjoy for 40 hours a week, you can still lead a purposeful life. It just means using the joy of addition. Maybe on weekends or in the evenings, you can start incorporating joyful, meaningful activities,” he advises.
Final Thought: Purpose Is a Journey, Not a Destination
Finding your purpose shouldn’t be a source of stress. It’s about purposefully integrating meaningful actions into your daily life. Instead of pursuing one major “big P” purpose — like curing cancer or amassing wealth — focus on “little p” purposes: the daily habits and activities that bring joy and fulfillment.
