Finding your why
19 Dec 2024
The concept of purpose has intrigued theologists, philosophers and writers for centuries. As modern day understanding of health and wellbeing evolves, the meaning of life and how to live it in a fulfilling and meaningful way is a topic still widely debated. Common consensus is that ‘purpose’ is a deeply personal, often changeable, and valuable quest to find our place in the world with many benefits for our over wellbeing. Enhancing our life satisfaction through meaningful interactions and direction, as well as boosting motivation, productivity, and social connections. Purpose could be the secret ingredient to leading a more fulfilling life.
We see the impact of purpose with the thousands of people we work with each year, many who feel they have lost their way. Dealing with life’s challenges, such as battling unemployment, stepping from the wrong side of the law, or coming to terms with a health issue can be hugely deflating. Time and again, we see that developing a purpose, a direction in life to aim towards, is a mighty tool in boosting motivation and wellbeing. Equally, we see the shared purpose of our own teams – to enable better lives – achieve amazing results.
So, what exactly do we mean by purpose?
Put most simply, purpose is why you do something – a target, an aim. It nods to a person’s sense of resolve and determination, with planning, intent and accomplishment thrown in for good measure. It is a strong and motivating factor in life, driving the ‘why’ behind what we do and who we aspire to be.
It has many iterations, shaped by culture, belief and personal perspective. For philosophers, purpose refers to the reason something exists or is done and is central to understanding nature and human life. In psychology, purpose is a motivating force that drives behaviour and provides a sense of direction. Associated with goal setting and self-determination. Many religious traditions see purpose as a divine calling, while professionally, purpose serves as a guiding principle, aligning efforts with meaningful goals and values. So across all spheres of life, purpose is at play, guiding our aspirations and actions.
Yet purpose isn’t something you find once and forever, and it doesn’t have to be a singular mission. As participants on our programmes will well understand, it evolves as your circumstances change. It’s a journey. A young person’s purpose might involve building a career, while raising a family may later become the ultimate aim. Changing your life’s direction, teaching skills, volunteering, leaving a creative legacy… we all have unique combinations of drivers that help give our lives meaning.
Why purpose matters
Martin Seligman, a prominent figure in positive psychology, believes that having a sense of purpose is key to a person’s wellbeing and happiness. It not only provides meaning, direction, and motivation, it builds social connections and helps you live happier and longer.
How and why having a purpose leads to so many positive outcomes is still being studied, but research has already documented links to a host of mental, physical, and social benefits:
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The ability to cooperate and accomplish big things: living with purpose can inspire others, creating a ripple effect in your personal and community relationships.
Purpose often grows from our connection to others, lose that connection and your purpose will wane.
Finding purpose is rarely a lightning bolt moment –it’s a powerful tool for enhancing wellbeing. It provides direction, motivation, and fulfilment, helping us navigate life's challenges and build meaningful connections. So, what’s yours?
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