What Can You Do When You Feel Like You've Lost Your Sense of Purpose?

Recently, a coaching client told me they felt like they'd lost their way.

I asked them to describe what had been happening and what changed since they last felt a clear sense of purpose and meaning.

They’d been away on vacation for a few weeks and stopped doing their usual routine and habits that support their well-being.

When they came home and got back to work, it felt like the news of the world was crushing them.

Instead of their usual morning routine, they were doom-scrolling on their phone, reading the news about Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the mounting anti-LGBTQ and anti-trans laws and regulations in the US.

The result of that doom scrolling was a focus on doom and gloom!

They started their day with all that was wrong in the world and couldn't get back to feeling what was 'right' for them.

3 simple practices that will help you get back on track.

After a few more questions, I suggested three easy practices for my client to work through.

#1. Remind yourself of your purpose.

Ask, What is your purpose?

• Speak it aloud, if you have it written down, and consciously experience how the words make you feel in your body.
• If you don’t feel empowered, you need to refine and update your purpose for clarity and meaning.

#2. What's ONE thing you can do first thing in your day that connects with your purpose?

Pick a task, habit, or routine that puts you on the path of pursuing and living your purpose.

• The being of your purpose is demonstrated in the actions that make you feel aligned with what brings you experiences of happiness and freedom.
• All you need to practice is ONE of those actions and you will feel in tune with yourself.

#3. What's one thing you can do to make a difference for someone else, no matter how small?

We can't solve the world’s problems alone.

So how can you feel like you're making a difference or having an impact?

• You can donate money or volunteer your skills to an organization aligned with your purpose.
• It's not about how much or making something new. It's about doing something meaningful.

Brainstorm a few options that satisfy your need to feel like you're making a difference.

Whatever action you choose, write about it in your journal.

• Ask yourself how that action — that choice — made you feel and what you can do to experience more of that feeling every day.

Tell me in the comments, which one of the 3 practices most resonated with you and why?