This week, a common theme emerged during my therapy sessions: many of my clients expressed feeling overwhelmed by the busyness of life. Despite managing their responsibilities, they confessed to feeling a sense of emptiness, lacking the spark of enjoyment. It led us to a profound discussion about the cultivation of joy and the significance of understanding one's purpose in life.
Now, you might be asking the same question my clients did: "Ok, Nicki now how the heck do I figure out my purpose!?" It's a question that has echoed throughout my own life journey and one that resurfaces at different stages of our existence, particularly during times of transition. As a lifespan therapist, I've witnessed firsthand how pivotal it is to reconnect with our sense of purpose as we navigate life's twists and turns.
So, how do we begin this journey of self-discovery? I offered several reflective questions to my clients, encouraging them to delve into their past experiences:
What activities have consistently ignited a sense of excitement within you?
Are there moments in your life where you've felt both small and part of something larger simultaneously?
Reflecting on your childhood, what activities or pursuits captivated your attention and brought you joy?
For me, the answer to these questions lies in a childhood memory my mom shared. She recounted how I would eagerly rush to aid any injured playmate, even stocking up on Band-Aids to ensure no scraped knee went untreated. This innate desire to help others, to contribute to something greater, has remained a driving force in my life and ultimately shaped my career path.
However, joy encompasses more than just a sense of accomplishment. Drawing from Brené Brown's insights in "The Atlas of the Heart," joy is described as an intense feeling of deep spiritual connection, pleasure, and appreciation. It's a profound state where we not only find satisfaction but also become more authentically ourselves.
This notion of joy as a beacon guiding us back to our true selves resonates deeply, especially during times of uncertainty and self-doubt. When we feel adrift, joy serves as a compass, pointing us towards experiences that nourish our souls and align with our deepest values.
In my own moments of reflection, I've found joy in the simplest of things: the shimmering light on a pond, the rustle of leaves in the wind, the melody of birdsong. Each instance serves as a reminder of the awe-inspiring beauty that surrounds us and our privileged place within it.
So, I encourage you, as I did with my clients, to be intentional about seeking out joy in your life. Engage in introspection, ask yourself the big questions, and trust that you are worthy of discovering what brings you true fulfillment. Remember, joy is not merely found; it is cultivated, nurtured, and embraced.
As you embark on this journey, may you find solace in the pursuit of joy and may each moment of awe-filled wonder lead you closer to your authentic self.
You are worth it.