Reframing How to Find Your Purpose

Finding your purpose in life is a profound, often complex journey. For many, purpose provides direction, focus, and a sense of self-worth. But because our purpose is deeply personal—shaped by our beliefs, values, and lived experiences—traditional advice may not always resonate. In this article, we explore how applying a biopsychosocial lens, similar to what mental health professionals use in therapy, can help guide us toward a more meaningful and authentic understanding of our life’s purpose.

What Is My Purpose? A Question We All Face

At some point in life, most of us are asked a question that seems simple, but often isn’t:“What do you want to be when you grow up?”

As we age, that question morphs into more complex reflections, such as:

• “What is my purpose?”
• “I still don’t know what I want to do, and I’m [insert age]!”
• “I feel pressure to have it all figured out.”
• “Plans change—why do I need a concrete answer now?”
• “I want to honour my family’s expectations, but is that what I want?”

If these thoughts resonate with you, you’re far from alone. These questions are what make us human.

Purpose and Mental Wellbeing

Purpose isn’t just a philosophical concept—it’s deeply tied to mental wellbeing. When aligned with a meaningful goal or role, we often feel more motivated, emotionally fulfilled, and mentally healthy. When we apply this lens to our lives, we understand that purpose isn’t something we “find” overnight. It’s something we uncover through self-reflection, exploration, and choice.

Just as clinicians use the biopsychosocial model to assess mental health—considering biological, psychological, and social factors—we can use a similar holistic framework to understand what truly drives us.

The Limits of Well-Intentioned Advice

When grappling with questions about purpose, turning to loved ones is natural. They might highlight what makes you happy or suggest paths based on what they see in you. However, even well-meaning advice is often coloured by their own values, experiences, and expectations. This doesn’t mean we should dismiss their input; instead, we should interpret it through the lens of self-determination.

The Power of Self-Determination

We move closer to a self-directed and value-aligned life when we develop this internal compass.

Applying self-determination in your purpose-finding journey means:

• Making use of your unique background to create your solutions

• Recognising that discovering your purpose is a journey—it may take time through trial, error, and self-exploration

• Knowing that your efforts are for yourself, rather than solely to meet others’ expectations

A More Compassionate Way to Discover Your Purpose

Finding and understanding your purpose is no easy task. So the first thing we can do is relieve ourselves of the pressure to have everything figured out.

By honouring your personal values, background, and sense of agency, you’re far more likely to uncover a purpose that resonates with who you are, not just what others want for you. Embracing this self-determined approach offers a healthier and more compassionate way to explore your life path.

Support Your Employees’ Mental Wellbeing and Sense of Purpose
At Teladoc Health UK, we provide professional, compassionate mental health support designed to help employees navigate challenges related to purpose, wellbeing, and personal growth. By offering access to qualified clinicians, your organisation can foster a more engaged, resilient, and purpose-driven workforce.

Mental Health