A couple of years ago, I discovered something new about myself. Through the process of writing my memoir, The Relentless Courage of a Scared Child, I shared some of the painful stories about my chaotic and traumatic childhood. At times, this book was very difficult for me to write. Even though I had done a lot—and I mean A LOT—of therapy and work to overcome my issues, it required me to be more vulnerable than I had ever been, taking me totally out of my comfort zone.
But you know what? It was worth it.
The feedback I began receiving from readers who saw aspects of their own lives reflected in my story or who had been through trauma themselves, was so incredible. To know that my book was providing hope and inspiration to people made me realize that I had inadvertently turned my pain into a purpose—and that was to help others who had suffered in similar ways.
What Feels Meaningful to You?
When you think about having a sense of purpose, what does that mean to you?
The reason I ask is because everyone conceptualizes this in their own way. Social media tends to emphasize that it’s like reaching some kind of pinnacle, being famous, or developing a medical cure. However, what often gets overlooked are the day-to-day wonders and successes that are personally meaningful to people. Because of this, a lot of you might be confused about what it means to know or discover your own sense of purpose. And the truth is that it actually might be right under your nose, and maybe even something—or a few things—you’re already doing.
Discovering Your Sense of Purpose
What do you think your sense of purpose might be?
To answer this question for yourself, think about which aspects of your life are most meaningful to you—and why? In other words:
- What fills your heart?
- What makes you want to get up in the morning?
- What parts of your life feel most rewarding?
- What do you yearn to do more of?
Reflecting on the answers to questions like these will help you zero in on what you love to do, which is fundamental to your sense of purpose. And it can be anything that provides a deep sense of meaning for you.
For one person, it might be a flourishing career, while for another it’s being the best parent they can be to raise healthy and responsible children. Maybe it’s a hobby or creative endeavor that inspires you every day or perhaps it’s being part of a volunteer group that helps your community be a better place.
The things that provide the most significant meaning in your life help to give you your unique sense of purpose. You might find that you have more than one. For instance, in addition to what I already described, I find a wonderful sense of purpose in being a devoted mother and wife.
Discovering Your Sense of Purpose is Easier than You Think Click To Tweet
By taking the time to identify what your sense of purpose is and focusing more on it, you will feel greater personal fulfillment. So whatever it is—large or small—that makes your heart sing, enriches your life, and helps you understand why you were put on this planet, own it and resonate proudly with it, because it’s your special gift to share with the world.
For more inspiration, order my newest book, The Relentless Courage of a Scared Child: How Persistence, Grit, and Faith Created a Reluctant Healer.
If you’re struggling and need professional help, Amen Clinics is here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, remote clinical evaluations, and video therapy for adults, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834 or visit our contact page here.
