Finding one’s life purpose has become a common source of anxiety, as the pressure to discover an overarching meaning can feel like a heavy burden. Experts explain this “purpose anxiety” stems from a lack of guidance on how to actually uncover such a purpose. “There are a lot of commands to find purpose, but not a lot of support to find it,” says Michael Steger of Colorado State University. The challenge is compounded by the decline of traditional sources of meaning, like religion and the belief that future generations will be better off. These societal shifts have left many struggling to define their purpose. Advice from experts is to avoid fixating on a singular, grand “Big P” purpose. Instead, they suggest focusing on smaller “little p” purposes found in hobbies, work, or volunteering – things that “light you up and fill you up.” The key, says Steger, is to be patient and embrace the process of searching, rather than rushing to a final answer. (newser)
PHONE TOPIC: Which “little P” purposes keep you inspired in your life?