In the whirlwind of daily responsibilities, endless to-do lists, and competing priorities, it’s all too easy to move through life on autopilot. However, there’s an undeniable difference between just going through the motions and leading a life deeply rooted in purpose. Purpose not only adds meaning to our lives but serves as a compass, guiding our actions, influencing our choices, and helping us navigate challenges with resilience. So, what’s YOUR why and how do you find it?

At its core, “discovering your why” is about uncovering what drives you at the most fundamental level. It’s about identifying the values, passions, and motivations that make life feel meaningful. For some, purpose might be connected to family, community, creativity, or a calling to make an impact. For others, it’s a journey of self-discovery, unfolding gradually through reflection and life experience.

Knowing your why provides a foundation for your life. It influences how you spend your time, the relationships you nurture, and the career paths you pursue. Your why is not necessarily about what you do, but about the impact you want to make—how you want to feel, and what you want to contribute to the world.

What’s the difference between goals and purpose?  Goals are the steps you take to achieve something.  Purpose is the reason you pursue those goals.  

Purpose is like fuel for our emotional and mental well-being. It creates a sense of fulfillment and direction, and can nudge you to keep showing up day after day, even when energy and motivation are lacking. Studies show that having a strong sense of purpose is linked to better health outcomes, increased resilience, and a longer, more satisfying life.

In leadership, understanding and embodying your purpose is crucial. Leaders with a clear sense of purpose inspire those around them, creating environments that foster collaboration, engagement, and trust. When you lead from a place of purpose, you invite others to do the same, empowering your team to tap into their own “whys” and show up more consistently as their best selves.

Maybe you’re thinking, “ok, this all sounds great, but how do I know what my why is?”

It can be challenging to verbalize your why.  For a lot of us, we set off on a path in life and we do the next thing that’s expected of us, because it makes sense.  You go to school, you get a job, maybe you find a partner, you start a family and you stay on life’s conveyor belt moving from one thing to the next.  And that’s not necessarily a bad thing.  But when you’re clear on WHY you show up every day, even challenges become more bearable and successes feel more meaningful.  

When considering what your why is, harness your self-awareness and try these few steps: 

1. Reflect on What Brings You Joy and Fulfillment

Start by identifying the activities, moments, or interactions that make you feel truly alive. Think about the times when you’ve felt the most fulfilled or energized—what were you doing? Who were you with? Understanding these patterns can offer valuable clues to your why.

2. Examine Your Values

Your core values are a vital part of your purpose. Reflect on what matters most to you—whether it’s integrity, compassion, growth, or making a difference. By aligning your actions with your values, you create a life that feels more authentic and satisfying.

3. Consider Your Strengths and Passions

Ask yourself what you’re naturally good at and passionate about. Often, our strengths point us toward ways we can make meaningful contributions, while our passions provide the motivation to stay the course.

4. Define the Impact You Want to Have

Take time to imagine the legacy you’d like to leave behind. How do you want to be remembered? Whether it’s raising compassionate children or leading a team with empathy and strength, this vision can serve as a powerful motivator to pursue purpose-driven goals.

5. Embrace Change and Growth

Your why may evolve over time as you experience new phases of life and personal growth. Embrace this fluidity, understanding that purpose is not a fixed destination but an ongoing journey.

Once you’ve gained clarity on your why, you can start integrating it into your life.   When it comes to goal setting, try to align your goals with your purpose. Rather than setting goals based solely on what you think you should achieve, focus on those that resonate with your values and sense of fulfillment. 

You can also use your why as a litmus test when making decisions (cue your high school chemistry class).  When making choices, ask yourself if they align with your why.  Then, choose intentionally.  

Living with purpose is about making deliberate choices, finding meaning in your actions, and continuously pursuing what aligns with your core values. In the process, you not only enrich your own life but create a ripple effect of positivity, resilience, and inspiration for those around you. Embracing your why empowers you to show up with greater authenticity, joy, and strength, impacting not only you, but those around you too. 

So, take a deep breath and start where you are. Begin by asking yourself: What is my why? As you embark on this journey, remember that every small step brings you closer to a life filled with purpose, fulfillment, and lasting impact.