Purpose isn’t something we find—it’s something we build. It’s the motivation that fuels us, the deeper reason behind why we do what we do. Work that feels meaningful isn’t just about completing tasks or hitting goals; it’s about contributing to something bigger than ourselves.

For centuries, philosophers, psychologists, and spiritual teachers have explored the human search for meaning. Dr. Viktor Frankl, a neurologist and Holocaust survivor, famously wrote that meaning—not pleasure or power—is the true driver of human fulfillment. Similarly, Eastern traditions like Buddhism and Taoism teach that purpose arises when we align our actions with values that serve the greater good.

When we integrate purpose into our work, we don’t just become more productive—we become more engaged, resilient, and deeply fulfilled.

Why Purpose Matters

1️⃣ Stronger Mental & Physical Health

• A study by the National Academy of Science found that individuals with a strong sense of purpose show better immune system function at the genome level.

• Having meaning in life has been linked to lower stress levels, greater emotional resilience, and even increased longevity.

   

2️⃣ Sustainable Happiness

• According to Emily Esfahani Smith, author of The Power of Meaning, people who prioritize purpose over short-term happiness experience greater well-being in the long run.

• Fulfillment isn’t about fleeting pleasure—it’s about contributing to something meaningful and enduring.

   

3️⃣ Higher Engagement at Work

• A survey by The Energy Project and Harvard Business Review found that employees who find meaning in their work report higher job satisfaction and engagement.

• Organizations that cultivate purpose experience lower turnover, higher productivity, and stronger team cohesion.

   

Shifting Perspectives: How We See Purpose at Work

Beliefs That Strengthen Purpose

✔️ Even when my job is challenging, I stay committed because I know my work makes a difference.

✔️ I focus on the "why" just as much as the "what" and "how" when leading my team.

✔️ Our company values purpose and encourages employees to find meaning in their roles.

Beliefs That Hinder Purpose

❌ Work is just a paycheck—finding meaning is a luxury, not a necessity.

❌ My job doesn’t feel meaningful yet; I need a promotion to feel like I’m making an impact.

❌ My team doesn’t need purpose—just clear tasks, deadlines, and resources.

Building a Sense of Purpose at Work

1️⃣ Purpose is Built, Not Found

Dr. Martin Seligman, a pioneer in positive psychology, developed the PERMA framework (Positive Emotion, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, and Accomplishments) as a guide to cultivating fulfillment at work.

👉🏽 Purpose isn’t something we stumble upon—it’s something we actively shape through intentional work and connection.

2️⃣ Make Work About More Than Just Tasks

We find meaning when we contribute to something beyond ourselves—a concept known as transcendence (Maslow, 1971). As a leader, reinforce your organization’s mission.

Ask:

How does our work impact customers, clients, and society?

Communicate the bigger picture so employees see how their efforts contribute to something meaningful.

3️⃣ Create an Environment That Supports Purpose

Dr. David Ulrich and psychologist Wendy Ulrich emphasize that leaders play a crucial role in helping employees find purpose:

• Foster team connection, encourage growth, and show appreciation to create a workplace where people feel valued and motivated.

Purpose as a Daily Practice

Living and working with purpose isn’t about waiting for a grand realization—it’s about infusing meaning into what we do every day.

By shifting our perspective, aligning our work with our values, and fostering meaningful connections, we create not only more fulfilling careers but also richer lives.

How can you redefine your work to align more closely with your sense of purpose?

Identify one small change you can make this week to connect your daily tasks to a larger mission.

Whether it’s shifting your mindset or redefining team goals, every step toward purpose matters.