Having a Purpose

Introduction

When you don’t feel too good because of what’s going on inside your head it’s difficult to find enjoyment and meaning in life.

Especially people who suffer from depression feel like they have lost touch with the meaning of life and don’t really feel like there is any purpose to anything; even fun things.

Don’t feel alone, tonnes of everyday people feel exactly the same!

People are stuck in jobs they don’t like, surrounded by people that they don’t feel too close to and don’t really have any control of what’s happening with their life.

A lot of happiness and contentment comes from feeling like your life is worth living and knowing that what you’re doing is making some kind of difference, even if it is on a small scale. If you can take control of your life and feel you control your destiny you really start to love life.

How can I have a purpose?

This is different for everybody. You may wish to be an actor/actress to entertain people, you might want to become a social worker to help people who need help or you might want to be an architect and create amazing buildings for the future.

This doesn’t really matter as long as it is something that you feel is worthwhile. It takes time but you’re life will be so much more enriched in doing what you want to do. If you fail or can’t achieve these goals then this shouldn’t stop you finding your purpose.

For example, if you wanted to be an actor or actress because you enjoy entertaining people but can’t act very well then become a play director, or a comedian, or a presenter! The list is endless and either way you are still helping to entertain people. It is important to realise what it is that would give you meaning: entertaining people, helping people, making change for the future and in knowing this there are plenty of different paths you can take to achieve this.

Where do I start?

Be broad with what it is that you feel will give you a purpose. Some ideas are:

• Helping people
• Entertaining people
• Helping make the future better
• Being the best at something
• Being well recognised

Then put down some ideas of how you could achieve this being a little more specific. So using the example of helping people:

• Set up or work for a charity
• Become a doctor, nurse or social worker
• Help friends and family

Then plan more detailed ways of doing this. See our Goal Setting page for smart ways of planning.

Words of Wisdom

A lot of people are put off from doing what they want to do because of little fears. Don’t let yourself do this, it’s YOUR life and you only get one shot at it. Make the most of it and become who you want to be and do the things you want to do. The people that care about you enough will support you with this. You can be anyone you want to be and do anything you want to do! You just need to work at it and be patient... What are you waiting for?