Finding Our Purpose as We Age
As we journey through life, the concept of purpose takes on new dimensions. For much of our lives our purpose is driven by family, career, religion or personal goals. In many cases purpose found us.
My life changed when my son was born. My daughter followed 23 months later. My purpose became to love and care for my family. Many of you can relate. Mother Theresa endorses this honorable goal as she once said “If you want to change the world, start by loving your family.”
But life changes-retirement, empty nest and much of our life can be seen in the rearview mirror. Now what?
Simon Sinek, author of the book Find Your Why said,
”Why do you get out of bed in the morning?
It is one of life’s great joys to wake up in the morning, every morning with a clear sense of why the day matters.“
In Okinawa, one of the five Blue Zones, they use the word Ikagai, loosely defined as “the reason to rise in the morning". They find their why every day. Did I mention people in the Blue Zones are the longest living people in the world?
As it turns out Ikagai, or purpose in life, can lead to a long, healthy, and happy life. In 2014, Robert Butler, MD and Founding Director of The National Institute on Aging found a strong correlation between having a sense of purpose and longevity.
Richard Leader, author of The Power of Purpose wrote, “One of the greatest secrets of happiness and longevity is living with a sense of purpose.'“
I could write a book on the topic; hey I think I already did. The research is expansive and clear-
purpose helps us age well.
So much has been written about the topic. One of my favorite experts is Dr Vic Strecher, PhD, and professor in The Department of Heath at The University of Michigan (Go Blue). In his class appropriately named Finding Purpose and Meaning in Life he says “The first step toward unlocking your purpose is to mine your life for threads that reveal your passion, gifts and values. And never stop learning. Curiosity is a driving force behind growth, and your purpose should be part of your growth.”
Here is the best news. We have lived long enough to know that life does not have to be flashy to be meaningful(the wisdom thing). Purpose as we age isn’t about achievement. It’s about connection, contribution and continuity. So, let’s take a breath. Smile at a stranger. Start something new, or old, or small or silly. Whatever it is, let’s remember:
We still matter, now more than ever.
Enjoy your day,
Just a little extra-
Here are a few guidlines to help with your search for purpose:
We are not exploring the meaning of life. We are not trying to change the world, just make a difference in our world.
Our purpose does not have to be a grand goal. Purpose is not a goal, it is part of our journey to be lived.
Success should not be measured by the size of your purpose, but your level of engagement.
Everyone is unique, and purpose should not be compared to others. Although inspiration from others is kinda cool.
Purpose is subject to change throughout life.
We can, and should have more than one purpose.
References
Cole, Garry. February 2024. Are We Old Yet? A Casual Conversation About Aging.