Many people believe that religion is the best way (and only way) to find purpose in life, ESPECIALLY for those of us living here in Utah County, Utah. Purpose goes beyond this point of view.
When we look for purpose in our lives, we have to first start at the beginning. We have to define what purpose means to us. Purpose is something that we have to define for ourselves, and no one else can define for us.
The first way we can identify and define purpose is by identifying things we value in our lives. Maybe that is serving others, maybe that is doing things that make you happy, maybe it is simply existing, regardless of what it is, it is valid and it is true to you – and that is what matters most. From there, we try to see how we can bring those values to all areas of our lives- which sounds easy on paper, but it often involves the anxiety of trying new things. At the end of the day, purpose involves connecting our feelings and dreams with the actions in our lives and living a life that is authentic in the process.
Purpose gives us hope and gives us a reason to live a fulfilling life. Without a sense of purpose, it can be easy to feel hopeless, confused, and alone. Here are some questions to ask yourself if you are starting your journey towards your own unique purpose.
- If you envision your ideal/ perfect life, what does it look like? Who is there? How do you spend your time? What do you have?
- What makes me genuinely happy?
- Who do I enjoy spending time with?
- What goals would I like to accomplish in my lifetime?
- What motivates me?
- What qualities about yourself do you, and others, like about you outside of a faith system, or even family?
- What did you want to do when you were a kid and how is it different from what you think today?
- What do you value in relationships, experiences?
- What is good in my life that I accomplished and can take personal credit for?
- What is important to me in a relationship and how can I turn that into what is important for me to be?
Why should I take the time to find purpose in my life?
Emotional and Psychological Growth
- Increased self-awareness – You gain a deeper understanding of your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
- Better emotional regulation – You learn to manage stress, anxiety, anger, or sadness more effectively.
- Healing from past trauma – Therapy can help process and release emotional wounds.
Improved Relationships
- Healthier communication skills – Learn to express yourself clearly and listen more effectively.
- Better conflict resolution – Gain strategies to handle disagreements without escalating conflict.
- Stronger boundaries – Learn to set and maintain healthy personal boundaries.
Behavioral and Thought Pattern Changes
- Breaking unhealthy habits – Therapy can help identify and change self-destructive behaviors.
- Shifting negative thought patterns – You can reframe unhelpful thinking styles that contribute to anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem.
- Building healthier coping mechanisms – Replace avoidance or unhealthy behaviors with more productive strategies.
Increased Resilience and Confidence
- Higher self-esteem – Therapy helps challenge self-doubt and build self-worth.
- Greater emotional resilience – You become more adaptable in facing life’s challenges.
- Stronger sense of purpose – You may gain clarity on life goals and values.
Physical Health Benefits
- Reduced stress-related symptoms – Improved mental health can lead to lower blood pressure, better sleep, and less stress related illness.
- Healthier lifestyle choices – You may feel more motivated to exercise, eat well, or practice self-care.
Looking for happiness and fulfillment? A lot of people find higher purpose in therapy.
