Unbroken: Chapter 13
“He who has a why can endure any how.” – Friedrich Nietzsche
Having a purpose serves as a guiding light, a beacon that directs us and gives meaning to our existence. It is a source of strength and resilience that fuels our determination and willpower when times get tough. When we know our purpose, we’re better equipped to navigate adversity and come out stronger on the other side. In this chapter, we’ll delve deeper into the significance of having a purpose or goal, discuss how to find and align with your life’s purpose, and share inspiring stories of individuals whose purpose steered them through challenging seas.
The Significance of Having a Purpose or Goal in Resilience
Purpose or goal in life can serve as an ultimate motivator and a true north, a deeply personal and profound source of resilience. More than merely a destination or an ambition, it forms the essence of our identity and the reason why we endure, adapt, and thrive amidst life’s adversities. In the face of hardship, it is the sense of purpose that provides a clear line of sight, transforming the seemingly insurmountable obstacles into stepping stones leading us toward our ultimate goal.
Psychological studies have consistently validated the strong relationship between purpose and resilience. One such area of research is that of Dr. Michael F. Steger, who delved into the concept of “meaning in life,” which he describes as comprising two key components: comprehension and purpose. According to him, a sense of purpose is about having a clear vision of one’s life goals and direction. His work has consistently demonstrated that individuals with a high sense of purpose are more likely to exhibit resilience, exhibiting greater ability to bounce back from stress and adversity.
Another important research in this domain is by Dr. Mark Seery, a psychologist at the University at Buffalo. His work elucidates the concept of “stress-related growth,” explaining that individuals who have faced adversities in life show greater mental resilience, essentially because the process of overcoming difficulties strengthens the individual’s coping mechanisms and, significantly, their sense of purpose. When we overcome difficulties, we do not just return to our former selves; we evolve, we grow, we redefine our sense of self – and at the core of this transformation often lies a refined or newly discovered purpose.
The role of purpose in resilience also finds its roots in Viktor Frankl’s seminal work, “Man’s Search for Meaning.” Frankl, a Holocaust survivor, emphasized that it was his purpose – his desire to rewrite his manuscript and his hope of seeing his wife again – that gave him the will to survive the brutal conditions of a concentration camp. This power of purpose in promoting resilience amidst the most horrendous adversity is a testament to the profound strength that can be found in having a goal to strive toward.
In essence, a strong sense of purpose serves as an inner compass, providing direction during periods of chaos and uncertainty. It fuels our motivation, sustains our determination, and nourishes our hope. Amidst adversity, it reminds us that our current predicaments are but temporary, while our purpose is enduring. This shift in perspective is instrumental in fostering resilience, allowing us to rise above our challenges and maintain our trajectory towards our goals.
How to Find and Align with Your Purpose in Life
Discovering and aligning with your purpose is a deeply personal and profound journey. It is not merely about selecting a destination or defining a specific ambition; rather, it involves a reflective, introspective process of understanding who you truly are, what matters most to you, and how you wish to contribute to the world around you. Here’s an expansive guide on how to find and align with your purpose in life.
Self-Reflection and Introspection
The journey to find your purpose starts with self-reflection and introspection. Spend time alone with your thoughts, reflect on your values, your passions, and your strengths. Ask yourself: What activities or work do you find most fulfilling? What are the causes that you feel most passionate about? When do you feel that your talents are being fully utilized? As American philosopher Howard Thurman said, “Don’t ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive, and go do it. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive.”
Experimentation and Exploration
Discovering your purpose often involves experimentation and exploration. It’s about stepping outside of your comfort zone and trying out new experiences, learning new skills, or delving into new areas of knowledge. You may not find your purpose right away, but each experience will offer valuable insights about what resonates with you and what does not.
Identifying Your Values
Understanding your core values is integral to finding your purpose. Your values are the principles that give meaning to your life—they are the foundations upon which your purpose is built. Reflect on the values that you hold dear. It could be creativity, service, honesty, learning, or compassion. Once you’ve identified your core values, think about how you can express these values in your everyday life.
Crafting a Personal Mission Statement
A personal mission statement can help provide a clear and concise articulation of your purpose. This statement should reflect your core values, your aspirations, and how you want to contribute to the world. It’s not a rigid decree but rather a guiding principle that can evolve as you grow and learn. This mission statement serves as a constant reminder of your purpose and helps you stay aligned with it.
Aligning Your Life with Your Purpose
Once you’ve discovered your purpose, the next step is to align your life with this newfound direction. This might involve making changes in your career, your relationships, your habits, or your lifestyle. For instance, if your purpose involves helping others, you might consider volunteering, mentoring, or pursuing a career in a helping profession.
Commitment and Persistence
Discovering and aligning with your purpose is not a one-time event, but a lifelong journey. It requires commitment and persistence. There will be obstacles and challenges along the way, but remember that these hurdles are a part of the journey, offering valuable lessons and opportunities for growth.
Seek Support and Guidance
Don’t hesitate to seek support and guidance on your journey. This could come from mentors, coaches, therapists, or supportive friends and family members. They can provide valuable insights, encouragement, and constructive feedback to help you discover and align with your purpose.
Finding and aligning with your purpose is a profound and rewarding journey. As you embark on this journey, remember these words from author Mark Twain: “The two most important days in your life are the day you are born and the day you find out why.”