Do you ever go through a season of life where you feel like you’re floundering? I’ve definitely had that feeling. When you’re not sure if your life is heading in the right direction, you might wonder if you’ll ever be able to find your purpose in life. I’ve done a lot of thinking about purpose, and there are a few things I’ve found helpful to remember as I sort through my feelings and decisions. 

Purpose is a Process

While you may have an occasional “lightbulb moment” when thinking about your purpose in life, it’s more likely that finding your purpose is an ongoing process of decision making. Even when purpose becomes clearer, we will always have to think things through and make adjustments based on what we learn along the way. If you think of purpose as a process, it is easier to stick with as you keep growing.

Look for the Why

Our purpose in life is the "why" behind the choices you make. What makes you tick? Why are you pursuing your current path? It’s the deeper reason that often has to do with a deeper goal. For example, you may be in nursing school. You’re in nursing school because you want to become a nurse. But why do you want to become a nurse? Likely because you want to care for others and help people improve their quality of life. That deeper “why” behind why you’re doing what you’re doing points to your life’s purpose.

Make Room for Stillness

Sometimes it’s hard for me to connect with my sense of purpose simply because I’m distracted by constant pings and demands. Making a point to include quiet and stillness in my routine gives me a chance to think about my purpose, and whether or not that’s what’s really driving my life and motivating my choice. This can include journaling, quiet time after meditation, or spending time in prayer. Prayer and meditation can be great reminders that God loves us, and He created each of us with a purpose.

Find Inspiration

Sometimes it can help to think about who inspires you. They likely are an inspiration because they go through life with a sense of purpose, and a real connection to what drives them. Learn about their lives, and how they overcame challenging and uncertain times. Chances are, you’ll learn some helpful ways to think about life and uncover your purpose.

Get Guidance

Sometimes, no matter how hard you try, it can still feel like you don’t know why you’re here and what you were meant to do. I know that can be discouraging, but there’s no need to despair. You can seek guidance during the soul-searching and self-exploration that you need to do to learn more about your purpose. Your guidance counselor, therapist, or faith leader can be a great resource. Or you can start right here. TheHopeLine has trained HopeCoaches who can help you talk things through so you feel clearer on your purpose. 

Talk to a Hope Coach today to start learning more about yourself, and to gain the inspiration to help you take on challenges in your life. We believe in you, and we are ready to listen and offer encouragement.

Life can be hard and hope can be hard to find. Read my blog to find out how you can find the hope to keep going.