Know Your Why – Understand Your Purpose

If you want to live an intentional life, understanding your purpose—your “why”—is so important!. 

Understanding your “why” is more than just a philosophical question; it impacts every daily decision you make. It is your driving force, the rationale behind all your actions. And in moments of dwindling motivation or challenging times, it serves as your anchor, it keeps you going. 

In life, there are straightforward decisions that don’t need much thought. For example, why do you eat? Because you’re hungry. Why do you work? To earn a living. 

However, when you start to explore your life purpose, understanding your “why” paves the path of persistence. When challenges seem insurmountable—the ones that can potentially alter the course of your life—understanding your “why” is a lifeline. When faced with daunting obstacles or unmet expectations, remembering your “why” might just provide the motivation and focus you need to persevere. 

We Were All Born to Live a Life of Purpose

We were all born to live a life of purpose, an intentional life, one with meaning and happiness. Without a life of purpose you are just living a life dictated by others. A reactive life without passion or purpose. 

Everyone has dreams and goals, things they want to achieve or do, a vision of the life they want to lead. Yet while some make plans to achieve their dreams, others just wish for change, believing it all too hard, even impossible.  

Even for those who take steps toward their plans, who start the journey of creating their new reality, all too often life “happens”. They can lose momentum and veer off course. Dreams are put aside, goals are forgotten, and they end up going with the flow, just trying to exist. 

This is where knowing your purpose – your “why” becomes important. Your “why” is the anchor to your goals when life’s demands threaten to drag you away on a current of day to day demands. Living an intentional life is oh so rewarding, but sometimes the challenges and moments of doubt can have you wondering what the hell you’re doing. Asking “is it all worth it?”.  

This is where I challenge you to flip the script – change the question. Instead of asking “Is it worth it?” ask “Why am I doing this?” 

This basic question has so much power. 

The Power of Knowing Your Why – Understanding Your Purpose  

The power of knowing your “why” can’t be underestimated. It’s the foundation of the plan. It’s even more important than the ‘how”. The “how” is your strategy and the actions you take to make your goals a reality. But sometimes the actions don’t always work out the way you intended. Sometimes the strategy needs to be adjusted and you need to try again. 

This is where the very basic question “Why am I doing this?” comes into play. It reminds you of the very reason you started on your path. It provides clarity and direction in what you’re trying to achieve. When you understand your purpose it somehow becomes easier to keep going. 

When you know your purpose you act with intention. You make conscious decisions and create deliberate actions that support your purpose. Instead of being influenced by the expectations of others, you make decisions that align with your vision. You have direction. 

Knowing your “why” also encourages mindfulness by bringing awareness to all that you do. It reminds you to consider the impact of your actions, creating a sense of responsibility to yourself, intentionally making choices in the present moment. 

Your ‘why’ keeps the fire burning, it gives you the motivation to keep going. It makes you resilient in the face of obstacles and energy lows, empowering you to keep going.  

Remember Your “Why” Every Day 

Understanding your ‘why’ is fundamental in living a purpose-driven life. By reminding yourself daily what your “why” is, you can navigate life’s obstacles, shut down your negative inner voice and thoughts, and live a life of intention and clarity.  

You can live with an energy and resilience you never thought you had. 

So, What Can You do Daily to Remember Your “Why”?

1. 1. Start each day by reflecting on your “why”. Meditate or journal to reaffirm your purpose and intentions for the day ahead.
   2. Write a to-do list and set your daily goals, making sure they align with your purpose. Not everything on your list will align, but make sure you prioritise your activities to incorporate at least one action, no matter how small, that takes you a step closer to your goals.
   3. Practice daily gratitude. Reflect on what there is to be grateful for in your life. It is scientifically proven that being grateful for all that is good brings more good to you. When you are in a state of gratitude and happiness, you are more likely to reflect on your why, your purpose.
   4. End your day reflecting on what you have achieved. Think about what went well, what didn’t, and what you can do differently tomorrow to support your purpose.
   5. When faced with challenges throughout the day, always come back to your “why”. When things aren’t going to plan, stop, breathe, and ask “Why am I doing this?”

Understanding your purpose, your “why”, is the cornerstone of living an intentional and meaningful life. It guides every decision, fuels your motivation, and anchors you during the most challenging times. By knowing your “why”, you unlock the power to persist, to remain resilient, and to make conscious choices aligned with your vision. It’s the compass that directs you toward your goals and empowers you to navigate life’s twists and turns with clarity and intention. 

So, find your purpose, remind yourself of it daily, and let your “why” be your path to a life filled with fulfillment and authenticity.