Understanding and Finding Purpose
By minnie
Purpose is something often spoken about in the context of the “dream life”. However, despite it being a word we have heard, it’s easy to think of it in terms of something almost unattainable. This is likely because we see purpose as something intangible, rather than what it really is – a drive to live a better, fuller and happier life.
Why is Purpose Important?
Purpose isn’t simply a means to an end nor is it just an afterthought, but is a tool that gives us a sense of direction, control and focus. Having something to live for no matter the grand significance it may hold, is going to allow you to be present and in control. Not only does purpose give us a stronger sense of direction (even if it’s short-term), it’s also linked to positive health outcomes including better sleep.
Finding your purpose is not as simple as it may sound, and requires plenty of reflecting, intuitive listening, and navigating your passions so let’s try to narrow it down a little!
How to Find Your Purpose
- Volunteer Your Time
Finding your purpose doesn’t have to be through grand, complicated moves, and can be as simple as getting your hands dirty and giving your time to those who may need it. The misconception that our purpose has to be something grand and jaw-dropping is untrue and not to forget, unrealistic.
Figuring out your purpose in life can come to you through helping others who may be less fortunate. If you’re having a harder time putting your purpose into words, some good old altruism may be just what you find meaning in.
- Meet New People
Image by Refinery29
It’s easy to feel like you’re stuck in a rut if you’re almost literally in one. Being in the same town, city or even just sticking to the same restaurants you’ve always visited could lead to feeling jaded and uninspired. While a little comfort can be lovely, a change of scenery may lead to some new-found direction for your life. Meeting new people can spring up new conversations, different perspectives and even new opportunities!
- Dabble In Your Interests
If you find yourself looking through papers on specific topics or following pages on Instagram that talk about specific things you seem to enjoy learning about, exploring those interests further may be a good start.
You can also gain insight into what you enjoy (perhaps without even noticing!) by making a mental note of the topics of conversation you find yourself having most frequently or most passionately! Diving deeper into the interests you already have will allow you to find a sense of purpose in doing the things you already enjoy doing. Hobbies aren’t just helpful for stress, but can also make your direction in life clearer.
- Talk To Those You’re Closest With
While conversations with new people can offer you a fresh perspective, intentional conversations with family and friends who know you best may remind you of the parts of yourself you may not be fully aware of.
Sometimes those who are closest to us know us a little better than we know ourselves, so a heart-to-heart with your mum or best friend may be just the enlightenment you need! You just might learn about the strengths you have, and subsequently find a new sense of purpose.
Finding your purpose in life can be a lifelong journey, and one that ebbs and flows. You can have a purpose that focuses on sections of life at a time, or one that you experience and strive for throughout life as a whole. What’s important is remembering that your life doesn’t come with deadlines or paths that are set in stone. Your purpose is personal, and doesn’t apply to anyone else’s rules or expectations. Anything that makes you excited to get out of bed every morning is worth living for.a
Are you stuck with in your journey in finding your purpose? Need some guidance while finding your “WHY”?
Feel free to check out our live session with Kwong Wai Wai where we talk about the importance on purpose.
If you’re looking for a coach to help you in this journey, contact our coach here at MINC.Care to see how we can help!
Article prepared by Joanna, MINC.Care.