Celebrate You: The Power of Purpose
“If we have our own ‘why’ of life, we shall get along with almost any ‘how.’” - Frederick Nietzsche
How do you experience life?
Each one of us spends our days doing something. When’s the last time you paused to think about WHY you do what you do? What’s the reason(s) that you get out of bed each morning? What gives you the motivation to help a friend, push yourself at work or learn a new skill?
“Life is never made unbearable by circumstances, but only by lack of meaning and purpose.”- Viktor Frankl
Purpose can be defined in various ways. In general, purpose is a commitment or life aim that stimulates goals, promotes healthy behaviors, and gives meaning to life. There are also elements of contributing to a greater good – something larger than or beyond the self. In Japan, the word ikigai represents purpose and is defined as “something to live for; the joy and goal of living.”
Having a clear sense of meaning and purpose in life is associated with many benefits. Research has identified positive connections between physical and mental benefits in those who live a purposeful life. Here are a few examples:
Increased or Improved:
- Resilience, decreased burnout
- Sleep
- Longevity
- DNA repair
- Financial wellbeing
Decreased risk of:
- Heart attack
- Stroke
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Type 2 diabetes
- Suicidal ideation
Purpose is also associated with academic achievement, work success and a positive outlook on life (joy, hopefulness, optimism and other related emotions). Bringing your best self to what matters most to you in life is what it’s all about.
Where does purpose come from?
Purpose can come from many places. Often, it’s related to things that give us a sense of fulfillment. For example, do you find fulfillment in your connections with others such as your family, friends, or in your community? A parent may find a sense of purpose in raising their children. Using your talents and skills in your career or volunteer work can be very meaningful. For some, spirituality and faith-based activities are important to them.
If you want to get in touch with your purpose, ask yourself a couple of questions:
- Where do I find the greatest happiness or satisfaction in my life?
- What values are most important to me? For example, health, honesty, family, community, etc. Knowing your values can help to clarify purpose.
- What would I want to be remembered for?
How you answer these questions may help you connect to the things that bring meaning in your life, supporting your health, happiness, and well-being.
“And in the end, it’s not the years in your life that count. It’s the life in your years.”
- Abraham Lincoln
Want more? Click on the links below.
Sources:
Rush Memory & Aging Project; HELPGUIDE