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November 1, 2023 By [Heidi Godman](https://www.health.harvard.edu/authors/heidi-godman), Managing Director - Reviewed by [Anthony L. Komaroff, MD](https://www.health.harvard.edu/authors/anthony-l-komaroff-md), Editor in Chief, *Harvard Health Letter;* Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing Share [Share this page to Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.health.harvard.edu%2Fmind-and-mood%2F10-ways-to-find-purpose-in-life&display=popup) [Share this page to X](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?original_referer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.health.harvard.edu%2Fmind-and-mood%2F10-ways-to-find-purpose-in-life&text=10%20ways%20to%20find%20purpose%20in%20life%20-%20Harvard%20Health&tw_p=tweetbutton&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.health.harvard.edu%2Fmind-and-mood%2F10-ways-to-find-purpose-in-life) [Share this page via Email](<mailto:?subject=Great health news for you from the experts at Harvard&body=Check out this link from Harvard Health: 10 ways to find purpose in life - https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/10-ways-to-find-purpose-in-life>) Copy this page to clipboard Print This Page Click to Print  Job burnout, an empty nest, retirement, the loss of a partner — any one of those can lead you to feel like you've lost your sense of purpose or reason to get up every morning. It's a common experience, especially as we get older. "When you lose something that's shaped you, it's a threat to your identity, and you wonder who you are without it," says Matthew Lee, a sociologist and research associate at Harvard University's Human Flourishing Program. The question is — will you do anything about it, or will you languish into a void? Your response could affect your health. ## The importance of purpose Having a sense of purpose is associated with many health benefits, such as sharp memory and thinking skills, mood control, reduced risks of chronic disease and disability, and longevity. Why is purpose so potent? "Several studies suggest that, compared with people who don't have a sense of purpose, those who do tend to perceive stressors as being less difficult and cope better with stress. That might help them avoid some of the physiological effects of chronic stress that contribute to heart attack, stroke, and early death," Lee says. You may also be interested in...  ## Your Whole-Life Wellness Program: Simple strategies for a stronger body, sharper mind, and fuller life Developed by Harvard Medical School experts, this program combines decades of research with real-world advice you can use today. Each chapter includes tips to overcome common barriers—like lack of time, low motivation, or age-related challenges—so you can succeed step by step. Invest in your health with Your Whole-Life Wellness Program: Simple strategies for a stronger body, sharper mind, and fuller life. The sooner you begin, the sooner you’ll enjoy the rewards—more energy, clearer thinking, and a brighter outlook for years to come. [Read More](https://servedbyadbutler.com/redirect.spark?MID=186626&plid=2650436&setID=812675&channelID=0&CID=862911&banID=524408272&PID=0&textadID=0&tc=1&rnd=3982783117&scheduleID=3721681&adSize=0x0&matches=%5B%22purpose%22%5D&mt=1774354485440180&spr=1&referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.health.harvard.edu%2Fmind-and-mood%2F10-ways-to-find-purpose-in-life&request_uuid=aefb0548-0451-488d-9fb5-bebf3f7d1d09&hc=c084008628033b3f61864af202d533d5887e3206&location=) And some studies have found that people with purpose are likely to engage in healthy behaviors, such as keeping up with health screenings. ## Finding purpose Purpose can spring from something simple, like a hobby, or more complex, such as contributing your service to your community in some way. While there's no one formula to find that inspiration, there are ways to cultivate it. Here are 10 suggestions to get you started, adapted from the Harvard Special Health Report *Self-Care* ([/scshr](https://www.health.harvard.edu/scshr)), with additional insight from Lee. **1\. Zero in on your strengths.** Ask friends, family, and your partner what comes to mind when they think of you. Do they find you entertaining, compassionate, or artistic? Use their feedback to think about how you can apply these attributes in a way that would give meaning to your life and the lives of others. **2\. Think about the obstacles you have overcome in your life.** Can you find ways to help others who are going through the same thing? "This can be profound," Lee says. "Your life experience can help others, which is inherently purposeful." **3\. Draw up a purpose timeline.** Your purpose changes as you age. Think about what it was at different points in your life, with particular focus on periods of evolution or transition. Did you learn any lessons that you can apply to your current situation? You may be interested in...  ## Improving Memory Now you can tap into advice from Harvard Medical School experts to uncover how your brain changes as you age and discover the best ways to keep your mind and memory strong. Improving Memory is a fascinating look at how your mind works, paired with the best ways to protect your memory. You’ll discover: Steps you can take now to reduce your risk of dementia, the normal limitation of short-term memory that has nothing to do with memory loss, why aging isn’t always the culprit behind memory loss, 9 key differences between normal memory lapses and signs of dementia, 17 ways to improve memory and protect your brain, and more\! [LEARN MORE](https://servedbyadbutler.com/redirect.spark?MID=186626&plid=2650436&setID=812675&channelID=0&CID=862911&banID=524387919&PID=0&textadID=0&tc=1&rnd=3982783117&scheduleID=3708161&adSize=0x0&matches=%5B%22mind%22%5D&mt=1774354485440323&spr=1&referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.health.harvard.edu%2Fmind-and-mood%2F10-ways-to-find-purpose-in-life&request_uuid=aefb0548-0451-488d-9fb5-bebf3f7d1d09&hc=f56638a969307f46a98a086f68e0e5260d2dcd3e&location=) **4\. Look for role models.** Are there people whose work you admire? Can you learn how to do something similar? **5\. Become a mentor and share your knowledge and skills.** People often cite the encouragement and wisdom they've obtained from others who took the time to care about their careers. "A mentoring relationship is a caring one that enables us to give and receive love," Lee says. "Reciprocal, caring relationships are often what's missing as we get older." **6\. Think about what the world needs.** There are a great many needs on this planet, and different people will prioritize different ones. Are you concerned about world hunger? Climate change? Injustice? Identify a cause that's meaningful to you, and think about how you could help. "There are probably a million needs in your community that aren't being met. Maybe some of those needs require your skill set," Lee says. Why not call a local group that interests you and ask about volunteering opportunities? Or visit Volunteer Match ([www.volunteermatch.org](http://www.volunteermatch.org/)) for ideas. **7\. Read Viktor Frankl's book *Man's Search for Meaning*.** It's a quick, easy read, and it's been helping people for decades. "Frankl noticed in Nazi death camps that people who were generous, connected with others, and found meaningful ways to support others were more vital and survived longer. They found a way to relate in a loving way to each other, and there was purpose in doing that. It may inspire you," Lee says. You may be interested in...  ## A Guide to Cognitive Fitness In this Special Health Report, Harvard Medical School doctors share a six-step program that can yield important and lasting results. Together these “super 6” can strengthen your intellectual prowess, promote your powers of recall, and protect the brain-based skills that are essential for full, rewarding, and independent living. From simple and specific changes in eating to ways to challenge your brain, this is guidance that will pay dividends for you and your future. [LEARN MORE](https://servedbyadbutler.com/redirect.spark?MID=186626&plid=2650436&setID=812675&channelID=0&CID=862911&banID=522376633&PID=0&textadID=0&tc=1&rnd=3982783117&scheduleID=2486859&adSize=0x0&matches=%5B%22mind%22%5D&mt=1774354485440426&spr=1&referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.health.harvard.edu%2Fmind-and-mood%2F10-ways-to-find-purpose-in-life&request_uuid=aefb0548-0451-488d-9fb5-bebf3f7d1d09&hc=b26e743d14304f061be58357512075b0bc1880d1&location=) **8\. Write your own story.** Your own lived experience is also worthwhile. Recall the best stories from your childhood and write them down with all the detail you can think of. Include answers to important questions about yourself — the kind you wish you had asked your own parents and grandparents. Give the stories to your kids and grandkids. **9\. Write your own obituary.** You can do this at any age, maybe not for publication — just for yourself or your family. What do you want to be remembered for? Can any of that inform your purpose now? If you haven't yet achieved something you're especially proud of, remember that it's not too late. **10\. Picture yourself winning the lottery.** What would you do without financial concerns standing in the way? Would you travel the world? Volunteer? Figure out ways to do elements of those same things without a financial windfall. For example, if you've always wanted to visit Asia, see if you can sign up with a volunteer organization like the Peace Corps (there's no age limit!). ## How to start Don't feel pressured. "Explore the possibilities," Lee says. "It gets you moving again, and momentum can take you further in ways that you may find rich, rewarding, and even surprising." **Image: © Taiyou Nomachi/Getty Images** ## About the Author  Heidi Godman, Managing Director Heidi Godman directs all news gathering for Harvard Health Publishing, and also directs the curation and production of HHP's four monthly subscription publications (the Harvard Health Letter, Harvard Heart Letter, Harvard Men's Health Watch, and Harvard Women's Health … [See Full Bio](https://www.health.harvard.edu/authors/heidi-godman) [View all posts by Heidi Godman](https://www.health.harvard.edu/authors/heidi-godman) ## About the Reviewer  Anthony L. Komaroff, MD, Editor in Chief, *Harvard Health Letter;* Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing Dr. Anthony L. Komaroff is the Steven P. SimcoxPatrick A. Clifford/James H. Higby Distinguished Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School, senior physician at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, and editor in chief of the … [See Full Bio](https://www.health.harvard.edu/authors/anthony-l-komaroff-md) [View all posts by Anthony L. Komaroff, MD](https://www.health.harvard.edu/authors/anthony-l-komaroff-md) Share [Share this page to Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.health.harvard.edu%2Fmind-and-mood%2F10-ways-to-find-purpose-in-life&display=popup) [Share this page to X](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?original_referer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.health.harvard.edu%2Fmind-and-mood%2F10-ways-to-find-purpose-in-life&text=10%20ways%20to%20find%20purpose%20in%20life%20-%20Harvard%20Health&tw_p=tweetbutton&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.health.harvard.edu%2Fmind-and-mood%2F10-ways-to-find-purpose-in-life) [Share this page via Email](<mailto:?subject=Great health news for you from the experts at Harvard&body=Check out this link from Harvard Health: 10 ways to find purpose in life - https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/10-ways-to-find-purpose-in-life>) Copy this page to clipboard Print This Page Click to Print ## Disclaimer: As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. 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Recent Articles [ How to treat shoulder impingement](https://www.health.harvard.edu/bones-and-joints/how-to-treat-shoulder-impingement) [ Beyond protein: 6 other nutrients that help prevent muscle loss](https://www.health.harvard.edu/diet-and-nutrition/beyond-protein-6-other-nutrients-that-help-prevent-muscle-loss) [ Even small changes in physical activity may boost longevity](https://www.health.harvard.edu/exercise-and-fitness/even-small-changes-in-physical-activity-may-boost-longevity) [ Will lithium supplements be used to fight Alzheimer's one day?](https://www.health.harvard.edu/brain-health/will-lithium-supplements-be-used-to-fight-alzheimers-one-day) [ How to cope with bone-on-bone joint pain](https://www.health.harvard.edu/bones-and-joints/how-to-cope-with-bone-on-bone-joint-pain) [ Low vitamin D may raise risk for respiratory infections](https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/low-vitamin-d-may-raise-risk-for-respiratory-infections) [ Advancements in knee replacement: More precise and personalized](https://www.health.harvard.edu/bones-and-joints/advancements-in-knee-replacement-more-precise-and-personalized) [ Cervical dystonia: A challenging neck condition](https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/cervical-dystonia-a-challenging-neck-condition) [ Telltale signs of vaginal infections](https://www.health.harvard.edu/womens-health/telltale-signs-of-vaginal-infections) [ How the gut-brain connection influences mood](https://www.health.harvard.edu/brain-health/how-the-gut-brain-connection-influences-mood) 1 / 10 ## Related Topics [ Healthy aging and longevity Relief or risk? 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 Job burnout, an empty nest, retirement, the loss of a partner — any one of those can lead you to feel like you've lost your sense of purpose or reason to get up every morning. It's a common experience, especially as we get older. "When you lose something that's shaped you, it's a threat to your identity, and you wonder who you are without it," says Matthew Lee, a sociologist and research associate at Harvard University's Human Flourishing Program. The question is — will you do anything about it, or will you languish into a void? Your response could affect your health. ## The importance of purpose Having a sense of purpose is associated with many health benefits, such as sharp memory and thinking skills, mood control, reduced risks of chronic disease and disability, and longevity. Why is purpose so potent? "Several studies suggest that, compared with people who don't have a sense of purpose, those who do tend to perceive stressors as being less difficult and cope better with stress. That might help them avoid some of the physiological effects of chronic stress that contribute to heart attack, stroke, and early death," Lee says. You may also be interested in...  Developed by Harvard Medical School experts, this program combines decades of research with real-world advice you can use today. Each chapter includes tips to overcome common barriers—like lack of time, low motivation, or age-related challenges—so you can succeed step by step. Invest in your health with Your Whole-Life Wellness Program: Simple strategies for a stronger body, sharper mind, and fuller life. The sooner you begin, the sooner you’ll enjoy the rewards—more energy, clearer thinking, and a brighter outlook for years to come. [Read More](https://servedbyadbutler.com/redirect.spark?MID=186626&plid=2650436&setID=812675&channelID=0&CID=862911&banID=524408272&PID=0&textadID=0&tc=1&rnd=3982783117&scheduleID=3721681&adSize=0x0&matches=%5B%22purpose%22%5D&mt=1774354485440180&spr=1&referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.health.harvard.edu%2Fmind-and-mood%2F10-ways-to-find-purpose-in-life&request_uuid=aefb0548-0451-488d-9fb5-bebf3f7d1d09&hc=c084008628033b3f61864af202d533d5887e3206&location=) And some studies have found that people with purpose are likely to engage in healthy behaviors, such as keeping up with health screenings. ## Finding purpose Purpose can spring from something simple, like a hobby, or more complex, such as contributing your service to your community in some way. While there's no one formula to find that inspiration, there are ways to cultivate it. Here are 10 suggestions to get you started, adapted from the Harvard Special Health Report *Self-Care* ([/scshr](https://www.health.harvard.edu/scshr)), with additional insight from Lee. **1\. Zero in on your strengths.** Ask friends, family, and your partner what comes to mind when they think of you. Do they find you entertaining, compassionate, or artistic? Use their feedback to think about how you can apply these attributes in a way that would give meaning to your life and the lives of others. **2\. Think about the obstacles you have overcome in your life.** Can you find ways to help others who are going through the same thing? "This can be profound," Lee says. "Your life experience can help others, which is inherently purposeful." **3\. Draw up a purpose timeline.** Your purpose changes as you age. Think about what it was at different points in your life, with particular focus on periods of evolution or transition. Did you learn any lessons that you can apply to your current situation? You may be interested in...  Now you can tap into advice from Harvard Medical School experts to uncover how your brain changes as you age and discover the best ways to keep your mind and memory strong. Improving Memory is a fascinating look at how your mind works, paired with the best ways to protect your memory. You’ll discover: Steps you can take now to reduce your risk of dementia, the normal limitation of short-term memory that has nothing to do with memory loss, why aging isn’t always the culprit behind memory loss, 9 key differences between normal memory lapses and signs of dementia, 17 ways to improve memory and protect your brain, and more\! [LEARN MORE](https://servedbyadbutler.com/redirect.spark?MID=186626&plid=2650436&setID=812675&channelID=0&CID=862911&banID=524387919&PID=0&textadID=0&tc=1&rnd=3982783117&scheduleID=3708161&adSize=0x0&matches=%5B%22mind%22%5D&mt=1774354485440323&spr=1&referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.health.harvard.edu%2Fmind-and-mood%2F10-ways-to-find-purpose-in-life&request_uuid=aefb0548-0451-488d-9fb5-bebf3f7d1d09&hc=f56638a969307f46a98a086f68e0e5260d2dcd3e&location=) **4\. Look for role models.** Are there people whose work you admire? Can you learn how to do something similar? **5\. Become a mentor and share your knowledge and skills.** People often cite the encouragement and wisdom they've obtained from others who took the time to care about their careers. "A mentoring relationship is a caring one that enables us to give and receive love," Lee says. "Reciprocal, caring relationships are often what's missing as we get older." **6\. Think about what the world needs.** There are a great many needs on this planet, and different people will prioritize different ones. Are you concerned about world hunger? Climate change? Injustice? Identify a cause that's meaningful to you, and think about how you could help. "There are probably a million needs in your community that aren't being met. Maybe some of those needs require your skill set," Lee says. Why not call a local group that interests you and ask about volunteering opportunities? Or visit Volunteer Match ([www.volunteermatch.org](http://www.volunteermatch.org/)) for ideas. **7\. Read Viktor Frankl's book *Man's Search for Meaning*.** It's a quick, easy read, and it's been helping people for decades. "Frankl noticed in Nazi death camps that people who were generous, connected with others, and found meaningful ways to support others were more vital and survived longer. They found a way to relate in a loving way to each other, and there was purpose in doing that. It may inspire you," Lee says. You may be interested in...  In this Special Health Report, Harvard Medical School doctors share a six-step program that can yield important and lasting results. Together these “super 6” can strengthen your intellectual prowess, promote your powers of recall, and protect the brain-based skills that are essential for full, rewarding, and independent living. From simple and specific changes in eating to ways to challenge your brain, this is guidance that will pay dividends for you and your future. [LEARN MORE](https://servedbyadbutler.com/redirect.spark?MID=186626&plid=2650436&setID=812675&channelID=0&CID=862911&banID=522376633&PID=0&textadID=0&tc=1&rnd=3982783117&scheduleID=2486859&adSize=0x0&matches=%5B%22mind%22%5D&mt=1774354485440426&spr=1&referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.health.harvard.edu%2Fmind-and-mood%2F10-ways-to-find-purpose-in-life&request_uuid=aefb0548-0451-488d-9fb5-bebf3f7d1d09&hc=b26e743d14304f061be58357512075b0bc1880d1&location=) **8\. Write your own story.** Your own lived experience is also worthwhile. Recall the best stories from your childhood and write them down with all the detail you can think of. Include answers to important questions about yourself — the kind you wish you had asked your own parents and grandparents. Give the stories to your kids and grandkids. **9\. Write your own obituary.** You can do this at any age, maybe not for publication — just for yourself or your family. What do you want to be remembered for? Can any of that inform your purpose now? If you haven't yet achieved something you're especially proud of, remember that it's not too late. **10\. Picture yourself winning the lottery.** What would you do without financial concerns standing in the way? Would you travel the world? Volunteer? Figure out ways to do elements of those same things without a financial windfall. For example, if you've always wanted to visit Asia, see if you can sign up with a volunteer organization like the Peace Corps (there's no age limit!). ## How to start Don't feel pressured. "Explore the possibilities," Lee says. "It gets you moving again, and momentum can take you further in ways that you may find rich, rewarding, and even surprising." **Image: © Taiyou Nomachi/Getty Images**