Recognizing that you are a part of something bigger than yourself. Our purpose helps to shape the mentality and views we have towards others and life experiences.
Why is Purpose important?
Our purpose is our “why.” This looks different for every single person. For some, this could be helping make the world a better place through their work. Maybe it could be doing something that you love and are good at. For others, it is having a sense of connection to their faith and a higher power. Regardless of what your purpose is, having a sense of purpose is important for our well-being.
Benefits of Having a Purpose:
Research shows that having a sense of purpose has a number of benefits to our health and well-being.
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Reduced stress
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Improved coping skills
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Increased health promoting behaviors
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Life satisfaction
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Better overall mental health
Spirituality and Purpose:
For many people, spirituality is a means that roots them to their life’s purpose. Regardless of religion or faith background, spirituality can help connect people to a sense of being part of something bigger than themselves. One’s spirituality can help them feel called to live their life in a way that aligns with that greater sense of purpose. For example, if someone’s spiritual beliefs emphasize helping others they might pursue a job or volunteer where they can help others on a regular basis.
Read: What is Spirituality? Taking Charge of Your Health & Wellbeing
Purpose is Important for Our Youth:
For youth, having a sense of purpose is one of the “40 Developmental Assets” that are protective factors against risk taking behaviors, such as alcohol and drug use. By having a sense of purpose and goals that align with that purpose, it can help youth build a positive identity and outlook for their life.
Finding Your Purpose:
If you are looking to figure out your life’s purpose, there are a number of tools and resources that can help you!
Reflecting on your values is a great place to start when thinking about what your life’s purpose may be.
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What motivates you?
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What energizes you?
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What are you willing to sacrifice for?
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Who do you want to help?
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How do you want to help?
There are also virtues within values that help build purpose in our lives. Virtues are the content of our character that makes us who we are and help shape our purpose. The Virtues Project has lists of different types of virtues that make up all of us. Explore these virtues and see which ones resonate most with you!
