Parts of Purpose

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Step 1: Induce Positivity

Positivity is a prerequisite for uncovering purpose. According to Barbara Frederickson and the Broaden and Build Theory, positive emotions broaden a person’s thought to action repertoire and promote discovery of novel actions. For example, joy can promote playfulness which can lead to the discovery of new and creative ideas. 

Take a piece of paper and complete these sentences.
I am inspired by…
I am looking forward to…
I love…
I am excited about…
I am hopeful for…
I am grateful for…
I am in awe of…
I delight in…

Step 2: Feel Your Peaks

Purpose can be uncovered in peak experiences. Abraham Maslow describes peak experiences as “moments of highest happiness and fulfillment” or “transcendent moments of pure joy.” When have you felt like your best self, juiced and alive and at one with yourself and the world?

Write down 3 of your peak experiences.
Use as much detail as possible and let your body feel as you remember the experience.

Step 3: Strength Spotting

You are a collection of many unique character strengths. Let’s call these strengths your superpowers. According to viacharacter.org, “character strengths are the positive parts of your personality that make you feel authentic and engaged.” What do you think your super powers are?

Spot Your Strengths
Begin to notice your strengths. Notice when you are doing something you love and do really well. Notice when you are doing something that puts you “in the zone.” We are so accustomed to discerning everything we do wrong in life. What will happen if you begin to notice your super powers and all the things you do well in life? 

Click to take the Character Strengths Free Survey and discover your top strengths.

Step 4: Life Purpose Statement

Your life purpose is unique to you and will utilize your invaluable personal superpowers. Purpose statements are not meant for setting specific goals, but instead used to help you identify how you can use your strengths to create impact. 

Write a Life Purpose Statement.
Create your life purpose statement by combining the following prompts in a cohesive testimony of 1-2 sentences.

Purpose is a verb.
(My purpose is to…encourage, teach, challenge, etc.)  

Who will your action affect?
(humanity, youth, women, a specific group, etc)

How do you activate your verb?
(as a… coach, mentor, parent, friend, etc.)

What impact will be felt?
(impact on the world or other people)

Use your superpowers.
(hope, bravery, social intelligence, love of learning, etc) 

Examples: 

1. My purpose is to encourage curiosity in youth. As a teacher, I will share my love of learning and create a safe, playful environment so my students can discover their most creative selves.

2. My purpose is to use my curiosity and intuition to stimulate thoughts and actions in others so that they experience inner peace and authentic, joy filled lives.

3. The purpose of my life is to be my true self, uninhibited by fear. I want to inspire others to live authentically and with passion.