Have you found yourself asking the big question: “What is my purpose?”
It can creep up when you’re in the middle of a career change, after your kids have moved out, or when life has taken a sudden and unexpected turn, and you find yourself asking “What now?”
Purpose isn’t something you’re born knowing—it evolves as you move through life.
And It’s not about a single goal or destination but a constant journey of self-discovery and fulfillment.
So, what exactly is life purpose, and how do you find it?
What Is Life Purpose, Really?
Life purpose is often described as your “reason for being,” but that definition can feel a little dramatic.
In more practical terms, your life purpose is the thing that gives you a sense of meaning and fulfillment. It’s what gets you out of bed in the morning with excitement (or at least curiosity). Purpose goes beyond your job title, your roles in relationships, or the to-do list you’ve been ticking off for decades. It’s that deeper sense of alignment between who you are and what you do each day.
Purpose doesn’t have to be something grand or monumental. You don’t need to save the world to live a meaningful life. Purpose can be found in small, everyday actions like caring for a garden, creating art, helping others, or sharing wisdom.
Why Finding Purpose Matters
Purpose is more than just a lofty concept—it has a real impact on your overall well-being. Research shows that having a sense of purpose can improve your mental and physical health. It gives you something to focus on, something to strive for, and a way to make sense of life’s challenges. When you know your purpose, you’re more resilient in the face of adversity, more motivated to take care of yourself, and more connected to the world around you.
Without purpose, life can feel aimless or repetitive. You may find yourself going through the motions, checking off boxes without feeling fulfilled. But with purpose, even the simplest of tasks can take on new meaning.
Step 1: Reflect on Your Life Experiences
One of the best ways to begin the journey to discovering your purpose is to reflect on your life. Think back to the times when you felt truly happy. What were you doing? Who were you with? What impact did your actions have on others or on yourself?
Purpose often leaves clues in the moments when you feel most connected to yourself and the world around you. Did you feel it when you were helping someone? Creating something? Learning something new?
Try journaling about these moments or talking them through with a trusted friend. Sometimes, patterns emerge that can point you toward your purpose.
Step 2: Embrace What You Love
Finding your purpose doesn’t have to be a long, difficult search. Often, it’s rooted in the things you already love to do. Purpose and passion tend to go hand-in-hand.
Think about the activities that make you feel alive, the ones where you lose track of time or feel a deep sense of satisfaction. It could be writing, painting, travelling, mentoring others, or even organizing events. These passions are clues to your purpose.
Purpose isn’t tied to a career or something you get paid for. It is simply the thing that lights you up from the inside.
If you love gardening, maybe your purpose lies in creating beauty and sharing it with others. If you enjoy storytelling, your purpose is to inspire others with your words.
Step 3: Look Beyond Yourself
While purpose often begins with personal fulfillment, it’s usually intertwined with something bigger than ourselves. Many people find their greatest sense of purpose in helping others or contributing to a cause they care about.
Think about the ways you can use your skills, experiences, and passions to make a difference. You don’t need to change the world overnight—small, consistent acts of kindness and service can be just as impactful. Whether it’s volunteering at a local charity, mentoring someone, or simply being there for a friend in need, giving back can be a powerful way to live with purpose.
Step 4: Be Open to Change
Here’s a little secret: purpose is static. How it expresses itself might change as you go through the different stages of life, but you will find that there is a common theme to all that you do. The things that gave your life meaning 10 years ago might not resonate in the same way today—and that’s okay, but the reason you loved those things doesn’t change.
It’s important to be open to the idea that your purpose might look different at different times in your life. Maybe your purpose once centred around raising a family or building a career. Now, it might shift toward personal growth, creative expression, or giving back in a new way.
Instead of feeling pressure to define your purpose once and for all, think of it as a journey—a journey that will unfold over time as you continue to explore and grow. There’s no rush, and there’s no right or wrong way to live with purpose.
Step 5: Start Where You Are
Purpose doesn’t need to be a grand vision for the future. It can start right now, right where you are. The key is to take small steps toward the things that bring you joy and fulfilment. Start by paying attention to what lights you up. Take a class, try something new, or reconnect with a passion you’ve put on the back burner.
Purpose often reveals itself in the doing. The more you explore, the more you’ll discover what truly resonates with you. And along the way, you’ll create a life filled with meaning, connection, and joy.
Purpose is a Lifelong Journey
Finding your life purpose isn’t about reaching a final destination—it’s about the journey. It’s about living with intention, curiosity, and openness to whatever comes next. It’s about embracing the things you love, connecting with others, and making a positive impact in your own way.
Purpose is personal, and it’s yours to discover and shape. So, start where you are, follow what lights you up, and trust that your journey is unfolding exactly as it should.
Let’s Chat!
Want some help with finding your purpose and creating a life on your terms?
Please feel free to book a free call with me here to get to know each other.