Purpose: flow and sustained effort

“I was going through a tough time in my life, a divorce after 15 years of marriage. Every day seemed very tough to pass; a tumultuous time to manage the emotions of 2 children, my parents, job, etc.   Bleak days, except the days that I spent doing something purposeful. Focusing on the job felt tough; I was losing my sense of purpose in life. except during process-oriented, daily activities that bring joy and fulfillment. I built on them, and they helped me go through this tumultuous time. I felt strong.”

-Mehek, 40 year old

“ My days are spent on thing after another. I make myself feel accomplished after everything I do, be it washing my car, watering my plants, or finishing my assignment. This helps me feel fulfilled and motivated.”

-Ross, 20 year old

Purpose has long been identified in philosophy and theology as an essential component of a well-directed life. Philosophers, particularly those in the Greek tradition (Plato and Aristotle), have historically employed teleology, arguing that everything in nature, including human life, has an inherent purpose or goal. Later philosophical movements, such as existentialism (Sartre and Camus), emphasize that individuals create their own purpose in an otherwise indifferent universe. Theology often frames purpose as a mission or significance ordained by a higher power, or "God-centered" meaning.

Bridging philosophy and theology, both disciplines hold that knowing one's purpose is crucial for living a "well-directed life". 

Define Purpose

“Why you do something or why something exists” by Cambridge dictionary

“The reason something is done” by Merriam-Webster dictionary.

In psychological science, purpose is seen as a distinct psychological process that integrates thought, action, long-term objectives, and core aspects of self-identity. It is a consistent, long-lasting intention to achieve something meaningful to oneself.

The neuroscience of purpose shows that it is not just a philosophical concept, but a biological mechanism that shapes behavior, improves health, and fosters well-being.Neuroscience indicates that purpose is supported by the prefrontal cortex, responsible for planning and values, and the posterior superior temporal cortex, which deals with contribution and meaning. Maintaining a sense of purpose boosts levels of dopamine (related to motivation), serotonin (for mood regulation), and oxytocin (linked to social bonds). A strong sense of purpose also enhances communication between brain networks, especially within the Default Mode Network (DMN), which plays a key role in self-reflection and future planning.

A sense of purpose is linked to lower cortisol levels.

 The brain's reward system, particularly the dopaminergic pathway, is activated when striving toward a goal, reducing the cognitive effort required to take action.

Victor Franklyn's work highlighted the human need for meaning, even in the face of adversity. Also underscored that purpose guides cognition, emotion, and behavior.

Research suggests that purpose is not merely about finding pleasure, but about finding something worth engaging with or, as some theories suggest, sacrificing for.

Living with purpose supports well-being, motivation, and resilience.

Cultivating Purpose

The brain's neural pathways related to purpose can be enhanced by setting long-term goals that activate the prefrontal cortex, engaging in prosocial behavior like helping others which releases oxytocin and dopamine, and practicing reflective activities such as journaling that promote self-awareness.

A few simple steps to find purpose in life-

1. Make some lists…. All the things you like.

2. Next, make a list of the things you know.

3. Then make a list of the things you can do.

4. In the final list, write all the things that light you up.

5. Decide what is most important from each list.

6. Determine the overlap of the most important things.

7. Determine How to Help Others

8. Reflect and Journal

9. Experiment and Explore

10. Connect with Mentors

11. Take Action