Living with Intention: How Purpose Gives Life Meaning

Have you ever felt like you’re just coasting through life—going through the motions without really knowing why? Me too, you’re not alone, I’ve been there. It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of work, responsibilities, and the occasional doomscroll through social media. But here’s the thing: life doesn’t have to and shouldn’t feel like an endless to-do list (who wants to live like that?!). Living with intention and purpose can transform the mundane into something extraordinary. 

I’m sure you are wondering, how exactly does purpose give life meaning? And how can you find yours? Let’s break it down, step by step, and make it fun along the way, shall we? 

What Does It Mean to Live with Intention? 

Living with intention is all about being deliberate with your choices, actions, and goals. It means deciding what matters to you and aligning your life around those values. Instead of reacting to life, you’re actively creating it. Think of it like steering a car. Without intention, you’re just cruising on autopilot, letting the road take you wherever it wants. With intention, you’re in control, choosing your destination and enjoying the journey along the way. Does it not sound like more fun to be in control of your own destiny and destination? 

Why Purpose is the Secret Sauce of Life? 

Purpose is like the GPS for your soul. It gives you direction, helps you make meaningful decisions, and keeps you motivated when the going gets tough. Without it, life can feel like a series of random events, leaving you wondering, What’s the point? I’m glad you asked, allow me to break it down for you. 

When you have a clear purpose: 

• You’re more focused: Purpose helps you filter out distractions and prioritize what really matters. 
• You feel fulfilled: Knowing your “why” makes even the hard work worthwhile. 
• You bounce back faster: Purpose acts as a buffer against setbacks, giving you the resilience to keep going. This is known as “Grit and Grind” in Memphis, it’s why Memphians don’t quit. 

How do You Find Your Purpose (Without Losing Your Mind)? Hear me out before you decide I’ve lost my mind. 

Finding your purpose doesn’t have to involve a dramatic soul-searching trip to a mountaintop (though if that’s your thing, go for it! (I support you, Boo). It’s more about tuning into what makes you tick and figuring out how to align that with your actions. How do you make your point A link to your point B? 

Here’s a roadmap to get you started: 

1. Reflect on What Lights You Up 

What excites you? What makes you lose track of time? What makes your heart smile? These are often clues to your purpose. Make a list of activities or topics you’re passionate about, no matter how small or silly they might seem. If it brings you joy, jot it down. 

Example: Love making people laugh? Your purpose could involve bringing joy or humor to others. Love to feed people? Cooking, baking, or entertaining is probably your thing. 

2. Consider Your Skills and Talents 

We all have unique gifts. What do people compliment you on? What tasks come naturally to you? Your strengths are often tied to your purpose. 

Example: Are you great at solving problems? Your purpose might involve helping others find solutions, whether it’s in business, relationships, or daily life. 

3. Think About How You Want to Impact Others 

Purpose isn’t just about you—it’s about the mark you leave on the world. How do you want to be remembered? How do you want to make people’s lives better? 

Example: If you care deeply about the environment, your purpose might involve advocating for sustainable living. 

4. Experiment and Explore 

Purpose doesn’t come with a neon “Find Your Purpose Here” sign. Sometimes, you have to try different things to figure out what resonates. Volunteer, take up a new hobby, or dive into a side project. You never know what might click. 

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How to Live with Intention Every Day 

Once you’ve got a sense of your purpose, the next step is to bring it into your daily life. Here’s how: 

1. Start Your Day with Purpose 

For those of you who believe in alignment, intention setting, and manifestation, these are probably things you do every day and don’t realize it. Take a few minutes each morning to set an intention for the day. Ask yourself: What do I want to focus on today? How can I align my actions with my purpose? 

2. Prioritize What Matters 

Cut out the noise and loose ends to focus on what truly aligns with your values. Say no to things that don’t serve your purpose, and yes to opportunities that do, even if it scares you. 

3. Reflect and Adjust 

At the end of the day, reflect on your actions. Did they align with your purpose? If not, think about how you can course-correct tomorrow. 

4. Celebrate Small Wins: You Deserve It! 

Living with intention isn’t about big, life-changing moves every day. Celebrate the small steps you take toward living a purposeful life. 

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The Ripple Effect of Purpose 

Here’s the magical part: when you live with intention, you inspire others to do the same. Purpose is contagious. Your actions, no matter how small, can create a ripple effect that impacts your family, friends, and even strangers. 

Final Thoughts: Your Purpose, Your Power 

Living with intention isn’t about having all the answers or following a rigid plan. It’s about making conscious choices that align with who you are and what you care about. It’s about finding joy in the journey, even when the road gets bumpy (remember Grit and Grind from earlier?). 

By now, I’m sure you’re like, “Erica since you know it all” what’s my next step? Set that intention, take the wheel, and start creating a life that’s uniquely yours. Because when you live with purpose, life stops being something that happens to you—and starts being something you create. 

Now, go out there and live intentionally. And hey, don’t forget to have fun and be great along the way! 

‍Remember, Live and Learn, Life is a Lesson!!!! 

‍Listen to Episode 1 Now: Purpose of Life: What's Your Reason for Existing?

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Written by:
Erica Lewis