Latest / Wellbeing Solutions - Ask A Counsellor / How can I find meaning and purpose in my life?
Transcript
- 0:00SPEAKER_00: How can I find meaning and purpose in my life?
- 0:04SPEAKER_00: Finding meaning and purpose in life usually isn't about discovering one big answer.
- 0:09SPEAKER_00: It's often about noticing what makes you feel connected, useful, alive and true to yourself.
- 0:16SPEAKER_00: Then building more of that into your life.
- 0:19SPEAKER_00: Start by asking yourself what matters to you?
- 0:23SPEAKER_00: Think beyond responsibilities and work.
- 0:26SPEAKER_00: What kind of person do you want to be?
- 0:29SPEAKER_00: What do you want your life to stand for?
- 0:32SPEAKER_00: Think about what gives you energy.
- 0:35SPEAKER_00: Notice moments when you feel peaceful, inspired, curious, excited about something.
- 0:43SPEAKER_00: These can give you clues about your purpose.
- 0:46SPEAKER_00: Think about what you are naturally drawn towards.
- 0:50SPEAKER_00: Sometimes purpose is hidden in the things we repeatedly come back to.
- 0:55SPEAKER_00: Reflect on what you have been through in your life and what you've learned.
- 1:00SPEAKER_00: Difficult experiences don't have to define your purpose, but they can sometimes give you compassion, wisdom and perspective.
- 1:10SPEAKER_00: Don't wait until you know your purpose to try small experiments rather than trying to work everything out.
- 1:18SPEAKER_00: You could try something creative, volunteer for something meaningful, learn something you've always been curious about, or help someone using a skill you already have.
- 1:31SPEAKER_00: After trying these experiments, notice if this made you feel more like yourself.
- 1:37SPEAKER_00: A useful question to ask yourself might be what kind of life would feel meaningful to me rather than simply looking successful to other people?
- 1:49SPEAKER_00: This question can be the beginning of a very different chapter.
- 1:54SPEAKER_00: If you are thinking of harming yourself or feel unsafe, please call your local emergency number or crisis line.