what is your purpose in life as a student essay

Essay on Purpose Of Life

Students are often asked to write an essay on Purpose Of Life in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Purpose Of Life

Understanding the purpose of life.

Life is a precious gift. Its purpose is different for everyone and depends on individual beliefs and experiences. Some people find purpose in helping others, while others find it in learning or creating. It’s about finding what makes you happy and fulfilled.

Finding Your Purpose

Discovering your purpose can take time. It’s not always clear and may change as you grow. You can start by thinking about what you love to do, what makes you feel good, and how you can make a positive impact on the world.

The Joy in Purpose

When you find your purpose, life becomes more meaningful. You feel a sense of fulfillment and satisfaction. This joy can motivate you to work harder and achieve your goals. It’s like a guiding light that leads you through life.

Living with Purpose

To live with purpose, you need to follow your heart and stay true to yourself. It’s about making choices that align with your beliefs and values. Remember, your purpose is unique to you. So, embrace it and live life to the fullest.

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250 Words Essay on Purpose Of Life

What is the purpose of life.

Life is a precious gift, and everyone has their unique way of living it. Some people think the purpose of life is to be happy, while others believe it is to help others.

Finding Happiness

Many people believe that the purpose of life is to find happiness. This could mean doing things that make us feel good, like playing games, eating our favorite food, or spending time with friends and family. It is about enjoying every moment and making the most of our time.

Helping Others

For others, life’s purpose is to help people. They find joy in making others happy or making the world a better place. This could mean doing volunteer work, helping a friend with homework, or simply being kind to everyone around us.

Learning and Growing

Some people see the purpose of life as a chance to learn and grow. They want to gain knowledge, learn new skills, and become better people. This could mean studying hard at school, reading lots of books, or trying new things.

In conclusion, the purpose of life can be different for everyone. It could be about finding happiness, helping others, or learning and growing. It’s about finding what makes you feel fulfilled and doing that. Remember, the purpose of life is a journey, not a destination. So, enjoy every step of your journey.

500 Words Essay on Purpose Of Life

Understanding ‘purpose of life’.

The ‘Purpose of Life’ is a big idea that everyone thinks about at some point. In simple terms, it is the reason why we are here. It is what gives our life meaning and direction. It is like a personal goal that guides our actions and choices.

Individual Purpose

Everyone has their own purpose in life, which can be different from others. This purpose can be anything that makes you feel happy and fulfilled. For some, it could be becoming a doctor and saving lives, while for others, it could be becoming a painter and creating beautiful art. It is not about what others think is important, but what you feel is important.

Common Human Purpose

While each person has their own purpose, there are also common purposes that all humans share. These include learning, growing, and contributing to the world. We all want to learn new things, grow as people, and make the world a better place. These common purposes can help bring us together and create a sense of community.

Finding your purpose in life can take time and is often a journey of self-discovery. It involves understanding your passions, values, and strengths. You can start by asking yourself questions like, “What do I love to do?”, “What am I good at?” and “What do I feel strongly about?” The answers to these questions can help guide you towards your purpose.

Living Your Purpose

Once you find your purpose, it is important to live it. This means making choices and taking actions that align with your purpose. For example, if your purpose is to help others, you might choose to volunteer at a local charity. Living your purpose can give your life meaning and make you feel fulfilled.

The Importance of Purpose

Having a purpose in life is important because it gives our life direction and meaning. It helps us make decisions and set goals. It also gives us a sense of fulfillment and happiness. Without a purpose, life can feel empty and meaningless.

In conclusion, the purpose of life is a deeply personal and important idea. It is the guiding force that gives our life meaning and direction. While each person’s purpose is unique, we all share common purposes of learning, growing, and contributing to the world. Finding and living your purpose can bring great joy and fulfillment to your life.

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My Purpose in Life Essay

Updated 13 November 2023

Downloads 63

Category Life

Topic Life Goals

In most cases, it is difficult to define the purpose of life

In most cases, it is difficult to define the purpose of life in a way that people would concur duly. Each looks at the aim of life differently because not everyone shares the same beliefs and have the same life experiences. Therefore, there are no widely accepted purposes in life. However, it is paramount for everyone to identify their reason for living (Mathews, 2008, p.167).

My purpose in life is to serve God and achieve my ikigai

In most cases, individuals choose a purpose in life depending on their beliefs, experiences, and what happens around them. I for one believe in God and trust that we cannot hold our future. We cannot control situations the way we want to have a better tomorrow. For me, God exists, and he is a Supreme Being who has control over every individual's life and has a plan for everyone for he is the creator. Bearing in mind that God is the controller, my purpose in life is to serve God in everything that I do, similarly to achieve what I am passionate about, what am good at, what will pay me, and that which the world needs. I believe that by accomplishing strategic goals while serving the creator, I would have achieved my ikigai and thus will live a life full of happiness and satisfaction. (García and Miralles, 2017, p.256).

My college life and goals

I am a first-year college student, and I believe the far I have come my ikigai has been my main driving force and everything that I have experienced along the way God had planned for them to happen. Every day I wake up my goal is to prepare for anything that might occur in the future, although I may not know what tomorrow might bring. At college, each day I aim to study and take care of my duties and responsibilities as a student and also as a believer who hopes for a prosperous future. I desire to achieve all my set life goals and dreams for a prosperous future. I am not sure about what will happen after I graduate from college but I believe that if I equip myself adequately, I will achieve my desires and what God has planned for me. My undergraduate career will enable me to reach my strategic goals and passions and serve God. On the other hand be in a position of serving other people and helping them in realizing their purpose in life.

The significance of having a purpose in life

According to Yamamoto-Mitani and Wallhagen (2002, p.407), having a purpose in life gives an individual something to wake up to each day and also serves as a motivation for one to achieve set objectives. My life's biggest goal is to serve my God in every way possible. This purpose enables me to have faith in God in everything that I do and to believe that everything that happens is because of God since He has control over all humans. Furthermore, it allows me to provide service to and encourage individuals in the society by explaining to them the importance of serving God. This purpose has made me to remain steadfast in every situation no matter how bad it may be and to have faith in God despite the case at a particular time. Serving God brings peace, a feeling of satisfaction, and happiness to my life always.

Pursuing my passions and utilizing my strengths

Additionally, achieving what I am passionate about and what I am good at is another purpose that I have in life. Realizing what I am excited about gives me the confidence to always try an idea that I like. This purpose gives me a reason and strength to press on despite any challenges that I may face. Also, it assures me that I can always achieve what I love doing.

Again, accomplishing what I am good at is an ikigai that has enabled me to reach my college level of education. This reason for living has always been a motivation in my academics; it gives me an intention to regularly do my best in all the areas where I am talented. Consequently, doing my best in areas where my strengths lie has allowed me to succeed in my academics up to college levels. The aim has also ensured that I don’t give up easily on my duties and responsibilities irrespective of any obstacles that may arise. Being able to achieve my passion in life and also attaining my best in the activities that I like have been my life's pillars and sources of happiness (Sone et al. 2008, p.709).

Working towards earning and meeting societal needs

Finally, being able to achieve that which I can be paid for doing and that which the society needs are, also, my purposes in life. The goal of obtaining something that can enable me to earn while doing has always pushed me to work hard in every other thing that I do. Working hard in my education has helped me to reach the college level in my academics, henceforth can pursue my dream career. This purpose in life has made me believe in myself and my capabilities of succeeding, for this reason, all the steps that I have taken in my life so far have been because I want to achieve something that can earn me a successful life soon. I believe that the aim will enable me to graduate from college and get a well-paying job and expand my career.

Moreover, achieving that which the society needs has always been a motivating factor in my life. The aim has enabled me to still be responsible and keen on any activities that get involved me. Societies always appreciate and accept individuals who have a sense of responsibility, besides, being responsible enables an individual to achieve his/her set objectives and eventually become successful. Equally, the purpose has made me work hard to a level of pursuing my career; thus, I will be able to accomplish my career dreams. Identically, being one of the educated individuals needed for employment in the career field and serving other members of the society (Snare, 2016, p.43).

In conclusion, I have confidence that everyone has a purpose in life and everyone needs to work towards realizing their aspirations in life. And I trust that my reason for living is to serve God, achieve what I love, realize my talents, attain that which can pay me, and acquire that which the society needs. Therefore, it is crucial that every individual pursue their life's ikigai to achieve their goals and dreams and that of others. Identically it is vital for every individual to find out their reason for living and follow it faithfully. The realization will help individuals to bring out the best out of themselves and also the society would receive the best from them. I hope that this or other essay samples at our site will inspire you to complete a marvelous essay on my purpose of life topic.

Bibliography

García, H. and Miralles, F., 2017. Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life. Penguin.

Mathews, G., 2008. FINDING AND KEEPING A PURPOSE IN LIFE. Pursuits of happiness: Well-being in anthropological perspective, p.167.

Snare, E., 2016. Introducing Sustainability to Creative Employment Seeking Expanding Communities OF SUSTAINABLE Practice, p.43.

Sone, T., Nakaya, N., Ohmori, K., Shimazu, T., Higashiguchi, M., Kakizaki, M., Kikuchi, N., Kuriyama, S. and Tsuji, I., 2008. The sense of life worth living (ikigai) and mortality in Japan: Ohsaki Study. Psychosomatic Medicine, 70(6), pp.709-715.

Yamamoto-Mitani, N. and Wallhagen, M.I., 2002. A pursuit of psychological well-being (ikigai) and the evolution of self-understanding in the context of caregiving in Japan. Culture, medicine, and psychiatry, 26(4), pp.399-417.

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21 Life Purpose Examples To Help You Write Yours

As kids, we are asked what we want to be when we grow up.

At that age, our answers are often simple: doctor, fireman, scientist.

Once we get to college or start working, our outlook on the future becomes more complicated.

Our goals are less oriented towards purpose but rather towards success.

However, to live happily, our views of success should align with a sense of purpose.

There are many different kinds of purposes of life to pursue, but it’s essential to find something that brings joy and fulfillment to your life.

To visualize and actualize your future goals, consider writing a life purpose statement.

We have put together fifteen life purpose statement examples to inspire you to write yours.

Why You Should Write a Life Purpose Statement

1. making a community contribution, 2. prioritizing home and family, 3. finding career success, 4. living authentically, 5. enjoying creative expression, 6. inspiring others, 7. fostering connections, 8. living mindfully, 9. achieving life balance, 10. protecting the environment, 11. raising successful children, 12. living with joy, 13. leaving a legacy, 14. making others happy, 15. teaching children.

Writing a life purpose statement can help focus your goals and motivate you to pursue them. Finding this motivation and channeling it into reality is easier when you explicitly articulate what you want to achieve.

Here are a few of the benefits of writing a life purpose statement: 

• Increased drive and motivation
• Focused mindset to achieve your goals and purpose
• Clear path to success based on your “why”
• Sense of fulfillment knowing you're guided by something vital and meaningful

21 Life Purpose Examples

Now that you're convinced writing a statement reflecting your life purpose, here are a variety of examples.

Each one focuses on an area of life that may be meaningful to you.

If you resonate with more than one of these statements, consider combining them to expand your own to include a broader purpose.

“My life purpose is to stand up for issues that I believe in and to contribute positively to my community. I want to leave the world knowing that I made it a better place.”  

If you care deeply about social issues or giving back to your community, this life purpose statement may work for your goals.

In your own statement, feel free to get more specific about how you plan to contribute to your community. 

“I hope to build a loving home with my family and to care for my children. I want to support their endeavors while still leaving time for my passions. I will be the best version of myself so that I can lead my children by example.”

For those who find a strong sense of purpose from family, consider a statement like this. Ask yourself how you are personally fulfilled through family, and what you want your life to look like. 

“My life purpose is to find success in my career. I would like to be a notable person among my peers and be valued for my contributions to my field. My hope is that I will retire feeling fulfilled with what I have accomplished.”

Many people’s life purposes are centered around careers, as they find happiness through achieving success and contributing to society.

It may be helpful to specify your particular field, the goals you may have, and why your career gives you a sense of purpose.

“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.”

This statement is an example for those who value being honest, open, and living their truth. Start by questioning what your passions are and how they empower you. 

Define what living authentically means to you and how you hope to achieve that.

“My goal in life is to harness my creativity and imagination to unearth truths about myself, my community, and society at large. I want to pose challenging ideas through my art.”

Many artists have specific mission statements attached to their work. As you grow as an artist, you may find that elements of your statement change, but the central core of your life’s purpose will usually remain the same. 

“The purpose of my life is to be a source of light to other people and radiate positivity. I hope to find an inner strength that is inspiring to others.”

Finding peace and modeling that for others is a compelling goal to motivate your self-growth. Many people dedicate their lives to self-improvement and receiving wisdom to pass it on to others. 

“My goal in life is to love others unconditionally and foster meaningful connections with people. I want to walk through life with an open hand, being available to form new friendships.”

If you thrive through your connections, this purpose statement may resonate with you. Think about what you are giving to these relationships versus what you are receiving.

How does that impact your purpose? 

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“I envision a life where I take things slowly and stop to smell the roses. I never want to miss out on an opportunity to find joy in the little things. I will explore my world with open curiosity and be fully present with all experiences.”

Not everyone enjoys living in a fast-paced and career-oriented environment.

This statement is an excellent example for people who admire beauty, value small treasure, and find meaning in living a more mindful and engaged life.

“In my life, I want to achieve a harmonious balance between my career, my family, and fun. I plan to work hard but also seek excitement and adventure where I can.”

You can have it all. Some of you may be working out how to balance many different elements in your life.

Writing a life purpose statement like this one is an excellent place to start when figuring out how to achieve your goals. 

“My life’s purpose is to be a caretaker of the Earth by living a life of zero waste and reducing my carbon footprint.”

Climate change and environmental causes are a valuable focus for a life purpose for many people.

Collaboration and community are a central component of this goal. If you find inspiration from this example, consider fleshing out specific examples of how you can contribute to helping Mother Earth. 

“My purpose is to raise a family of caring, passionate, and independent children who will find success in their own way and with integrity. I believe that being a parent is the joy of my life.”

Here is another example of a family-oriented life purpose statement, There are many different ways to center your family life in your personal goals, and each parent or family member will have their own view. 

“I want to live enthusiastically. I want to marry my best friend and settle into a long life together. I want to be fulfilled in my work and find meaning through art. I want to die knowing I lived the best way I knew how.”

This example shows that you can have many different types of goals in one mission statement.

Your goals can be oriented towards career, family, marriage, or anything else.

You don’t have to dedicate your life to any singular thing. We are complex creatures with many desires and interests. 

“I hope to achieve great things in my life. My life’s purpose is to leave a legacy behind me. I want to have the highest quality of life, and live abundantly.” 

Some personal statements are more qualitative, describing the type of life you want to lead.

It is not necessary to list specific goals, but rather, you can paint a picture of the direction you're headed. 

“My purpose in life is to make others laugh. I want to leave a smile on the faces of those I love, those I meet, and those who remember me long after I am gone.” 

Other life purpose statements are joyfully simple. If you wish to lead a joyful life, consider this example. When reflecting on your statement, think of the ways you can apply this perspective in your life.

How can your sense of humor and happy demeanor contribute positively to your career or your relationships? 

“My goal in life is to be an educator and help students reach their greatest potential. I want to help young kids find great success.”

This example is perfect for teachers whose profession is their main passion in life.

When we have found careers that genuinely make us happy, our life purposes are often shaped around finding success within them. 

16. Pursuing Knowledge and Wisdom

“My goal in life is to continuously seek knowledge and wisdom, always striving to learn more about the world and myself. I want to absorb as much as I can, turning every experience into a learning opportunity.”

If you are naturally curious and find joy in learning and personal growth, this purpose might speak to you. Consider how your quest for knowledge enriches not only your life but also how it can positively influence those around you. 

How does this pursuit shape your interactions and decisions?

17. Promoting Health and Wellbeing

“My life's mission is to promote health and well-being, both for myself and others. I aim to be a beacon of healthy living, inspiring and guiding others towards a balanced lifestyle.”

If you are passionate about health and believe in the transformative power of a healthy lifestyle, this purpose could resonate with you. Reflect on how your actions and choices can contribute to a healthier community and how this commitment to well-being influences your sense of purpose.

18. Advancing Technological or Scientific Innovation

“I am dedicated to pushing the boundaries of technology and science to create solutions that improve our lives. My purpose is to innovate, discover, and contribute to the progress of humanity through my work.”

If you are driven by a desire to innovate and solve complex problems, this purpose statement may align with your aspirations. 

Think about the impact of your innovations on society and how they reflect your personal values and purpose.

19. Championing Social Justice and Equality

“My purpose is to champion social justice and equality, to stand up for what is right, and to make a tangible difference in the fight against inequality. I am committed to creating a more just and equitable world for all.”

If you are moved by a sense of fairness and a desire to advocate for those who are marginalized, this purpose might resonate deeply with you. 

Consider how your actions can contribute to lasting change and how this pursuit aligns with your core beliefs.

20. Exploring and Preserving Cultural Heritage

“I am passionate about exploring and preserving cultural heritage, ensuring that the rich tapestry of our past is celebrated and maintained for future generations. My purpose is to connect with history and share its lessons and beauty with the world.”

Do you have a deep appreciation for culture and history and want to ensure its preservation? If so, this purpose statement could speak to you. 

Reflect on how this passion helps you connect with others and the past, enriching your life and those around you.

21. Fostering Spiritual Growth or Enlightenment

“My life's goal is to foster spiritual growth, both in myself and in others. I seek enlightenment and a deeper understanding of the spiritual aspects of our existence, hoping to share peace and wisdom along the way.”

Maybe your path is deeply intertwined with spiritual exploration and growth, and this purpose might align with your innermost values.

Think about how your spiritual journey influences your relationships, your approach to life's challenges, and what it means for your overall purpose.

How Do You Write a Purpose Statement for Your Life?

Crafting a purpose statement for your life might seem like a tall order, but it's really about digging deep and reflecting on what truly drives you. It's your guiding light that helps you navigate through life's ups and downs. Think of it as your own personal North Star, keeping you aligned with what matters most to you.

Here's how to get those thoughts down into a coherent, powerful purpose statement:

1. Reflect on Your Passions

Start by thinking about what gets you out of bed in the morning. What activities make you lose track of time? This isn't just about hobbies; it's about the core drives that give your life meaning and joy. Jot these down, no matter how big or small they seem.

2. Identify Your Values

Your values are the bedrock of your purpose statement. They define what you stand for and what you won't stand for. So, take a moment to list out your top values. Are you all about honesty, creativity, family, independence? Knowing these will help shape your purpose statement.

3. Consider Your Impact

Think about how you want to affect the world around you. What mark do you want to leave on your community, your family, or even the planet? This isn't about grandiose achievements but the real, tangible difference you want to make.

4. Draft Your Statement

With your passions, values, and desired impact in mind, start drafting your statement. Keep it simple and clear. It should resonate with you deeply, almost like a personal mantra that you can turn to in times of doubt or decision-making.

5. Refine and Evolve

Your first draft might not be perfect, and that's okay. Life is dynamic, and so are you. Allow your purpose statement to evolve as you grow and learn. It's a living document, not set in stone.

Remember, your purpose statement is deeply personal. It's for you, about you, and should reflect your unique journey and aspirations. So, take your time, be honest with yourself, and let your true self shine through in your words.

How will you use these life purpose examples?

If you are ever asked the question, “What is your purpose in life?” you now have a better idea of what that answer might be.

Your statement should be personal and specific to your interests and motivations. Use these examples to help craft your personal life purpose statement.

Here are a few different ways to utilize this exercise:

• Use it as a professional statement in your resume. Many job applications require a personal mission or professional statement in your resume. Craft your purpose statement to support your career goals.
• Write it in a journal, and return back to it when you need to refocus your energies. Just the act of writing your statement reinforces it in your mind.
• Discuss it with your significant other. Relationships often work for the long term when both parties share a similar sense of purpose and want to share in each other’s goals. 

Refer to your life purpose statement regularly as you make critical decisions or plans for your life.

Use it as your compass to guide you through life's ups and downs, reminding you of the higher reason you live on this planet.

May your purpose in life inspire everything you do today and always.

Writing for Resilience: The Impact of the Positive Purpose Essay on Students

•  •    Social and Emotional Learning

The Power of Purpose

When students enter the schoolhouse door without a sense of positive purpose, it is difficult for them to connect their varied learning experiences and other opportunities into a coherent whole that shapes their lives.  They lack a strong reason to learn, take on challenges, or behave well. An enduring sense of purpose typically emerges in adulthood, but having a primary goal, a moral compass, a focus on something other than, and larger than, oneself, and actions that align with these beliefs, start to become particularly important in middle school.

Stanford University psychologist William Damon views purpose as a “stable and generalized intention to accomplish something that is at once meaningful to the self and of positive consequence to the world beyond the self.”

Not surprisingly, positive purpose is connected to social-emotional learning skills.  For example, here are links with social awareness:

• Finding your special task –  what it is that allows you to excel?
• Recognizing your feelings and using them as a guide to your actions
• Recognizing and encouraging the achievements of yourself and also of others, for large and small accomplishments, as they contribute to purpose.

Getting Started with a Positive Purpose Essay

Writing an essay about positive purpose is an important way to build social awareness, as well as provide direction and energy for learning.  But students usually can’t just start writing. Here are some steps to get them ready:

• Look at the positive purpose of well-known individuals, via non-fiction books, biographies, documentaries, social studies, current events.
• Learn about, reflect on, and write about the positive purpose of a personally-known individual – interview a local hero, community leader, member of the clergy, first responder, family member, educator or other staff member in the school. 
• Write about one’s own positive purpose.

Use a Prompt to Guide Writing

You can use a standard essay writing prompt for your students’ grade level, adapted to positive purpose as the subject of the essay.  Here is an example from middle school in Jersey City, NJ:

In your classes and in your life you may have learned about and encountered people with a strong sense of purpose. Similarly, you might feel your own sense of purpose. In a five-paragraph essay that includes an introduction, three body paragraphs, and conclusion, please respond to the following:

•           What is your definition of purpose?
•           What might be your purpose? Why?
•           How would someone know that is your purpose in life?  

From an essay written by an 8 th grader from a high-poverty, low-achieving school based on the prompt above, here is the introduction and definition of purpose:

The purpose of human life is to serve, and to show compassion and the will to help others,” said Albert Schweitzer. I believe I was made to  entertain, inspire creativity and guide others.

I think the definition of purpose means reason to do something, like when you say what’s your purpose for choosing a certain career, and you state  your reasons. This is why I strongly am convinced that I was made to guide  and entertain others because, having a strong passion for art and Broadway plays… A purpose of doing something can lead you into realizing what you want to grow up to be, as you recognize what you like to do.

Here is how she responded to the last prompt:

Others would realize what my purpose in life is by knowing what my career and life goals are or, who I admire to be one day. I admire to be like Steve Jobs because I believe without mistakes you can never grow to be an exemplary person and, even though Steve Jobs failed many times he became one of the most successful men in our generation.

Try It With Your Students

Her essay—and those of her peers in Grades 6-8—opened her teachers’ eyes about the depth of her thinking, aspirations, and abilities. By articulating their sense of purpose, students became more aware of their own potential, and their own assets.

Try it with your students.  Have them share drafts of their essays with classmates, get several rounds of feedback, and then practice reading them with clarity and pride in class, at assemblies, or at parent or community meetings.  Students can also communicate their positive purposes by creating artistic or musical renderings, along with brief write-ups.  I am sure your students can find creative ways of communicating their sense of purpose, and in doing so, they will become more resilient.

Join me in the October 30th webinar to learn more about purpose, as well as Laws of Life, and Students Taking Action Together—activities you can use with students to engage them in ways that skills-focused training typically does not.

About the Author

Psychology Professor at Rutgers University

Maurice J. Elias, Ph.D., is a professor and former director of clinical training in the Department of Psychology, Rutgers University. He is also director of the  Rutgers Social-Emotional and Character Development Lab , academic director of the  Collaborative Center for Community-Based Research and Service  and founding member of the Leadership Team for the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL).

Dr. Elias lectures nationally and internationally and devotes his research and writing to the area of social-emotional and character development in children, schools, and families. He is a licensed psychologist and writes a blog on social- emotional and character development for the  George Lucas Educational Foundation . He lives in New Jersey with his wife, Ellen, near their children and grandchildren.

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Purpose for Students

What is it.

What am I meant to do? What gives my life meaning? How do I want to contribute to the world? These are all questions that get to the heart of purpose . Researchers define purpose in life as a stable sense of commitment to accomplish something that not only is meaningful to you personally, but that also makes a difference in the world beyond yourself.

Take a second to think about why you went into the field of education. You likely have a strong sense of purpose, part of which probably involves helping your students succeed. But have you ever wondered whether each of your students has their own feeling of purpose?

According to research, only about 20% of adolescents have a clear sense of purpose—but those who do tend to be better off in many ways, including higher life satisfaction and levels of happiness.

As an educator, you are in a powerful position to encourage your students ’ development of purpose. You maybe notice inclinations and talents that are out of the awareness of students’ parents and even the students themselves. Without intervention, students’ interests may go unrecognized and wither away. Indeed, research has shown that the support of teachers , mentors, and other adults outside the family is often crucial to young people’s development of purpose , particularly in the early stages.

A high school student gets super-excited when learning about blood flow while dissecting frogs. His teacher notices his enthusiasm and tells him that he could pursue his passion, eventually working as a hematologist and helping people who suffer from diseases of the blood.

Why Is It Important?

Studies show that people—especially young people—with a strong sense of purpose are happier, healthier, more motivated, and more resilient. As purpose scholar Kendall Bronk writes , “We can conclude that individuals who lack purpose and meaning in life are likely to show detrimental effects in a wide range of aspects of psychological functioning, and that individuals with a sense of purpose and meaning in life are poised to thrive.”

Purpose increases well-being.

• People with higher levels of purpose tend to be happier and feel more satisfied with their lives. They have stronger identities and higher levels of self-esteem , and feel more hopeful , optimistic , and confident in their abilities. What’s more, they are more likely to be engaged in their communities in positive, helpful ways.

Purposelessness impairs well-being.

• On the other hand, people who lack a sense of purpose or meaning in their lives report more boredom , anger, and other negative emotions; they are more likely to experience depression , anxiety, social problems, and even suicidality .

Purposeful people are stronger and longer-lived.

• More purposeful people are more resilient and better able to cope with life’s challenges. Purpose has even been related to better physical health and longevity .

Students with purpose do better at school.

• Students with more purposeful goals find their schoolwork more meaningful , probably because they can see how it relates to their future aspirations, and tend to have higher academic achievement . A feeling of purpose in life even seems to protect students from potentially negative influences in their environments.

Purpose is a journey, not just a destination.

• Interestingly, for teens and young adults, just the process of searching for purpose —even if they haven’t found it yet—is associated with greater life satisfaction.

Not sure where to start? Try a practice collection.

Practice Collections

Art on Purpose

Courage Creatures

Courageous and Compassionate Citizens

Letting Music Shape You

Take-Home Skill: Talk with Teens about Equity and Justice

Transforming Challenges into Meaningful Pursuits

Life is a Gift

Seeking Connection to Vastness

Look Up Vibe (LUV Moment)

Notes to Self: An SEL Kernels Practice for Sixth Grade

Notes to self: an sel kernels practice for fifth grade, notes to self: an sel kernels practice for fourth grade, notes to self: an sel kernels practice for third grade, notes to self: an sel kernels practice for second grade, notes to self: an sel kernels practice for first grade, notes to self: an sel kernels practice for kindergarten.

Questions of Wonder

Meaningful Photos for Students

GGIE Online Courses for Educators

Do you want to dive deeper into the science behind our GGIE practices? Enroll in one of our online courses for educators!

Greater Good Science Center • Magazine • In Action • In Education

Seven Ways to Find Your Purpose in Life

Many of the people I know seem to have a deep sense of purpose. Whether working for racial justice, teaching children to read, making inspiring art, or collecting donations of masks and face shields for hospitals during the pandemic, they’ve found ways to blend their passion, talents, and care for the world in a way that infuses their lives with meaning.

Luckily for them, having a purpose in life is associated with all kinds of benefits. Research suggests that purpose is tied to having better health , longevity , and even economic success . It feels good to have a sense of purpose, knowing that you are using your skills to help others in a way that matters to you.

But how do you go about finding your purpose if it’s not obvious to you? Is it something you develop naturally over the course of a lifetime ? Or are there steps you can take to encourage more purpose in your life?


Likely both, says Kendall Bronk , a researcher who directs the Adolescent Moral Development Lab at Claremont Graduate University. People can find a sense of purpose organically—or through deliberate exercises and self-reflection. Sometimes, just having someone talk to you about what matters to you makes you think more intentionally about your life and your purpose, says Bronk.

In her work with adolescents, she’s found that some teens find purpose after experiencing hardship. Maybe a kid who has experienced racism decides to become a civil rights advocate. Or one who’s suffered severe illness decides to study medicine. Of course, experiences like poverty and illness are extremely hard to overcome without help from others. But Bronk’s research suggests that having a supportive social network—caring family members, like-minded friends, or mentors, for example—helps youth to reframe hardship as a challenge they can play a role in changing for the better. That might be true of adults, too.

While hardship can lead to purpose, most people probably find purpose in a more meandering way, says Bronk—through a combination of education, experience, and self-reflection, often helped along by encouragement from others. But finding your purpose can be jump-started, too, given the right tools. In a paper titled “ Fostering Purpose Among Young Adults ,” she and her colleagues found that exercises aimed at uncovering your values, interests, and skills, as well as practicing positive emotions like gratitude, can help point you toward your purpose in life.

Here are some of her recommendations based on her research on purpose.

1. Identify the things you care about


Purpose is all about applying your skills toward contributing to the greater good in a way that matters to you. So, identifying what you care about is an important first step.

In Greater Good’s Purpose Challenge , designed by Bronk and her team, high school seniors were asked to think about the world around them—their homes, communities, the world at large—and visualize what they would do if they had a magic wand and could change anything they wanted to change (and why). Afterward, they could use that reflection to consider more concrete steps they might take to contribute toward moving the world a little closer to that ideal.

A similar process is recommended for older adults by Jim Emerman of Encore.org, an organization that helps seniors find new purpose in life. Instead of envisioning an ideal future world, though, he suggests posing three questions to yourself:

• What are you good at?
• What have you done that gave you a skill that can be used for a cause?
• What do you care about in your community?

By reflecting on these questions, he says, older adults can brainstorm ideas for repurposing skills and pursuing interests developed over a lifetime toward helping the world.

2. Reflect on what matters most

Sometimes it can be hard to single out one or two things that matter most to you because your circle of care and concern is far-ranging. Understanding what you value most may help you narrow down your purpose in life to something manageable that also truly resonates with you.

There are several good values surveys to choose from, including these three recommended by PositivePsychology.com: the Valued Living Questionnaire , the Portrait Values Questionnaire , and the Personal Values Questionnaire . All have been used in research studies and may be helpful to those who feel overwhelmed by all they want to change.

Bronk found that helping people prioritize their values is useful for finding purpose. The survey used in Greater Good’s purpose challenge—where students were asked to look at common values and rank which were most important, least important, and in between—has been shown to be effective in helping people clarify their purpose.

Once you’re clearer on your deepest values, Bronk recommends asking yourself: What do these values say about you as a person? How do these values influence your daily life? How might they relate to what you want to do with the rest of your life? Doing this exercise can help you discover how you can put your values to use.

3. Recognize your strengths and talents

We all have strengths and skills that we’ve developed over our lifetimes, which help make up our unique personalities. Yet some of us may be unsure of what we have to offer.

If we need help, a survey like the VIA Character Strengths Survey can be useful in identifying our personal strengths and embracing them more fully. Then, you can take the results and think about how you can apply them toward something you really care about.

But it can also be helpful to ask others—teachers, friends, family, colleagues, mentors—for input. In the Purpose Challenge, students were asked to send emails to five people who knew them well and to pose questions like:

• What do you think I’m particularly good at?
• What do you think I really enjoy?
• How do you think I’ll leave my mark on the world?

Adults can do this if they need feedback, too—either formally or informally in conversation with trusted others. People who know you well may be able to see things in you that you don’t recognize in yourself, which can point you in unexpected directions. On the other hand, there is no need to overly rely on that feedback if it doesn’t resonate. Getting input is useful if it clarifies your strengths—not if it’s way off base.

4. Try volunteering

Finding purpose involves more than just self-reflection. According to Bronk, it’s also about trying out new things and seeing how those activities enable you to use your skills to make a meaningful difference in the world. Volunteering in a community organization focused on something of interest to you could provide you with some experience and do good at the same time.

Working with an organization serving others can put you in touch with people who share your passions and inspire you. In fact, it’s easier to find and sustain purpose with others’ support —and a do-gooder network can introduce you to opportunities and a community that shares your concern. Volunteering has the added benefit of improving our health and longevity , at least for some people.

However, not all volunteer activities will lead to a sense of purpose. “Sometimes volunteering can be deadening,” Stanford University researcher Anne Colby. “It needs to be engaging. You have to feel you’re accomplishing something.” When you find a good match for you, volunteering will likely “feel right” in some way—not draining, but invigorating.

5. Imagine your best possible self

This exercise if particularly useful in conjunction with the magic-wand exercise described above. In Greater Good’s Purpose Challenge, high school students were asked to imagine themselves at 40 years of age if everything had gone as well as it could have in their lives. Then, they answered questions, like:

• What are you doing?
• What is important to you?
• What do you really care about, and why?

The why part is particularly important, because purposes usually emerges from our reasons for caring, says Bronk.

Of course, those of us who are a bit older can still find these questions valuable. However, says Bronk, older folks may want to reflect back rather than look ahead. She suggests we think about what we’ve always wanted to do but maybe couldn’t because of other obligations (like raising kids or pursuing a career). There seems to be something about seeing what you truly want for yourself and the world that can help bring you closer to achieving it, perhaps by focusing your attention on the people and experiences you encounter that may help you get there.

6. Cultivate positive emotions like gratitude and awe

To find purpose, it helps to foster positive emotions, like awe and gratitude. That’s because each of these emotions is tied to well-being, caring about others, and finding meaning in life, which all help us focus on how we can contribute to the world.

In her study with young adults, Bronk found that practicing gratitude was particularly helpful in pointing students toward purpose. Reflecting on the blessings of their lives often leads young people to “ pay it forward ” in some way, which is how gratitude can lead to purpose.

There are many ways to cultivate awe and gratitude. Awe can be inspired by seeing the beauty in nature or recalling an inspirational moment . Gratitude can be practiced by keeping a gratitude journal or writing a gratitude letter to someone who helped you in life. Whatever tools you use, developing gratitude and awe has the added benefit of being good for your emotional well-being, which can give you the energy and motivation you need to carry out your purposeful goals.

7. Look to the people you admire

Sometimes the people we admire most in life give us a clue to how we might want to contribute to a better world ourselves. Reading about the work of civil rights leaders or climate activists can give us a moral uplift that can serve as motivation for working toward the greater good.

However, sometimes looking at these larger-than-life examples can be too intimidating, says Bronk. If so, you can look for everyday people who are doing good in smaller ways. Maybe you have a friend who volunteers to collect food for the homeless or a colleague whose work in promoting social justice inspires you.

You don’t need fame to fulfill your purpose in life. You just need to look to your inner compass—and start taking small steps in the direction that means the most to you.

This article is part of a GGSC initiative on “ Finding Purpose Across the Lifespan ,” supported by the John Templeton Foundation. In a series of articles, podcast episodes, and other resources, we’ll be exploring why and how to deepen your sense of purpose at different stages of life.

About the Author

Jill Suttie

Jill Suttie, Psy.D. , is Greater Good ’s former book review editor and now serves as a staff writer and contributing editor for the magazine. She received her doctorate of psychology from the University of San Francisco in 1998 and was a psychologist in private practice before coming to Greater Good .

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Home — Essay Samples — Philosophy — Meaning of Life — Finding the Purpose: Why is Life Important

Finding The Purpose: Why Life is Important

• Categories: Meaning of Life Purpose Trust

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Words: 1987 |

10 min read

Published: Nov 26, 2019

Words: 1987 | Pages: 4 | 10 min read

Table of contents

Introduction, why life is important, works cited.

• Burnet, C. (n.d.). Only I Can Change My Life. [Quote]. Retrieved from Goodreads website: https://www.goodreads.com/quotes/8938229-only-i-can-change-my-life-no-one-can-do
• Keller, H. (n.d.). Although the world is full of suffering, it is also full of the overcoming of it. [Quote]. Retrieved from Goodreads website: https://www.goodreads.com/quotes/86764-although-the-world-is-full-of-suffering-it-is
• Pele (n.d.). Success is no accident, it is perseverance, learning, sacrifice, and most of all loving what you're doing. [Quote].
• Purpose Guide. (n.d.). The Importance of Finding Purpose in Life.
• Purpose Fairy. (n.d.). 15 Powerful Lessons I've Learned from Life.
• Segerstrom, S. C., & Vohs, K. D. (2009). Managing resources: Dual-task performance and resource allocation in normal adults. Journal of Experimental Psychology: General, 138(1), 101–126.
• Seneca. (n.d.). Life is too important to be taken seriously. [Quote]. Retrieved from AZQuotes website: https://www.azquotes.com/quote/1136886
• Silvia, P. J. (2006). Exploring the Psychology of Interest. Oxford University Press.
• Wong, P. T. P. (2014). The Human Quest for Meaning: Theories, Research, and Applications (2nd ed.). Routledge.

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Good Example Of Purpose in Life Essay

Type of paper: Essay

Topic: Life , Choice , Culture , Psychology , Human , Understanding , Society , Human Services

Published: 08/12/2021

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During the early years in life, I struggled with the issue of finding a purpose for my life since I drew inspiration from different individuals in different fields. However, as I grew up and began interacting with more people, I began to understand the different roles of people in society. The most impactful experience in my life was during a church activity where we volunteered to help feed and clothe the homeless within the community. The fulfillment I got from this activity was the life-changing experience that made me determine what my purpose in life would be. I knew that my purpose in life was to help the vulnerable people in society, put a smile on their faces, and make positive lasting impacts in their lives. I decided that every day, I would strive to ensure that I touched a life, however little it was to ensure that these individuals felt loved. My purpose in life, therefore, is to share love and compassion with the people who need it most.

In the recent past, the three choices I have made in my life include the choice to pursue a career in the human service profession. The second choice I have made is to improve my understanding of the different cultures across the globe and improve my capacity to interact with individuals from a variety of cultures. The third choice I have made recently is to do more individual research on human psychology.

The three choices I have made were all congruent with the purpose I have in my life. The choice of pursuing a career in the human services profession provides me with a chance to help individuals in a structured and legal way. It will ensure that I have an improved capacity to help vulnerable individuals get organized, get back on their feet and overcome the challenges that life has presented to them. This choice ensures that I can contribute to the establishment of a better society. It will ensure that I have an opportunity to create a link between those in need and the relevant resources that help them meet the needs that make them vulnerable members of our society. In addition to that, I will be contributing to a positive environment in a society where individuals and families do not live in fear of crime because of the need for vulnerable individuals to acquire resources in an illegal way. As such, my choice to pursue a career in the human service profession is congruent with my purpose in life.

Additionally, my choice to have a better understanding of the different cultures across the globe is also in congruence with the purpose I have in life. In the United States and other parts of the globe, communities are becoming increasingly diverse. Individuals from a variety of cultures are living within the same communities and sharing the same resources. Cultural competence has been seen as one of the most important skills that a human service professional should have to effectively practice in the field (Jani et al., 2026). As such, this choice will help me in understanding the different cultures and the preferences of individuals from these cultures. It will ensure an improved understanding of how different persons from varied cultures perceive their issues and the best way to develop solutions that align with their cultural needs. Thus, the choice to study other cultures is also congruent with my purpose in life.

Other than that, the choice I made to perform personal research on human psychology is also in congruence with my purpose in life. It is important to understand that in addition to material needs, most individuals are also deprived of emotional and psychological needs. It has been noted that technological developments and other issues have greatly contributed to an increase in mental health cases, especially among the young (Twenge et al., 2018). This means that individuals are increasingly becoming vulnerable to mental and emotional health issues. Therefore, my choice to seek a better understanding of human psychology is central to my capacity to understand the most appropriate ways of addressing the emotional and psychological needs of these individuals. It is on this basis that this choice is in congruence with my purpose in life.

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Jani, J. S., Osteen, P., & Shipe, S. (2016). Cultural competence and social work education:    Moving toward assessment of practice behaviors.  Journal of Social Work Education ,  52 (3), 311-324.

Twenge, J. M., Joiner, T. E., Rogers, M. L., & Martin, G. N. (2018). Increases in depressive symptoms, suicide-related outcomes, and suicide rates among US adolescents after 2010   and links to increased new media screen time.  Clinical Psychological Science ,  6 (1), 3-17.

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