The Importance of Having a Purpose
What does having a purpose even mean? Why is it important and how do we find one?
What is Purpose?
The dictionary definition tells us that purpose is ‘an intended or desired result; end; aim; goal or the reason something exists’. It is quite a tricky thing to define because purpose very much depends on the individual, it can look very different in different people, and it can change.
Purpose come in various forms – for many it is their career. For some it is their family or friends. It is about contributing in some way to the world and having a sense of direction in life, a reason to get up. Some people find purpose in big life goals, like running a successful company or being promoted in their chosen field, and others find purpose in small daily tasks, like keeping their garden tidy or looking after an elderly relative.
Purpose can also just be a feeling rather than a specific tangible thing. If you wake in the morning feeling motivated or excited about the day ahead or a task you wish to achieve you may just have a ‘sense of purpose’. And we can have more than one source of purpose, in fact it is recommended. If your purpose is too ingrained to one specific role, when that role ends, you might feel lost.
Why do we need one?
There appears to be many reasons why having a purpose is good for both our physical and mental health. The science tells us that a strong sense of purpose promotes longevity. Our hearts will be healthier, we look after ourselves better and we gain psychological resilience over daily stresses so coping better with life. On study showed that retiring early is associated with reduced longevity and a higher risk of dementia, indicating that a loss of purpose can have a detrimental effect on our health. Without purpose, you may feel bored, restless, dissatisfied, or empty, like life has no meaning. You may find yourself mindlessly scrolling media for hours and relationships may feel unfulfilling. You may ruminate on what the point of life is.
How do we find one?
At Old Town Hypnotherapy often meet people in clinic who feel lost in life They can’t find their purpose or maybe they have come to the end of one life purpose and are struggling to find another. In clinic we use a therapeutic tool called the ‘Miracle Question’ to help clients identify the version of themselves they want to be. It might also be useful to consider what your strengths and skills are and what you are passionate about. What motivates you to get up in the morning or what ignites excitement in you.
If you can’t find a purpose, don’t worry, many people are searching for theirs. Sometimes we need to start with taking care of our wellbeing, if we take care of ourselves, we find resources within us to contribute to our worlds. And keep learning; read, listen to podcasts, watch documentaries. Purpose doesn’t need to be a huge and world changing, there is great value to be found in the small stuff.
If you would like help do not hesitate to get in contact for a free initial consultation with Old Town Hypnotherapy.