Why do you need a sense of purpose?
Research has found that individuals with a sense of purpose along with a sense of control, and a feeling like what you do is worthwhile - tend to live longer. There is also research that links feeling as if you have a sense of purpose to positive health outcomes.
Finding purpose and meaning in your life are not things that can be determined quickly. The process requires self-reflection, listening to others and finding where your passions lie.
Strategies to help you live a more meaningful life
• Donate time, money or talent - if there is a habit you can create to help you find your purpose, it would be to help others
• Listen to feedback - it can be hard to recognise things you feel passionate about but other people might be able to give you some insight
• Surround yourself with positive people - what do you have in common with the people around you? Think about the people you choose to spend time with outside of work and family
Strategies to help you live a more meaningful life
• Start conversations with new people
• Explore your interests - the things you like to talk about and the things you enjoy sharing on social media may reveal the things that give you purpose in life
• Consider injustices that bother you - is there anything that makes you so unhappy to think about that it bothers you?
• Discover what you love to do - simply thinking about what you truly love to do can help you find your purpose