Why Purpose Matters: From Words to Action
Finding Your North Star: Living with Purpose as an Individual
For individuals, articulating and activating purpose isn’t just self-reflection, it’s a pathway to resilience, well-being, and fulfillment. It is the soul’s blueprint to create beauty.
In workshops I’ve led with groups like LEAF and Dress for Success San Francisco, participants are often surprised by how meaningful it feels to explore the origin and meaning of their own names. I share my name, Glenna, is Celtic for “dweller of the glen,” and also means “spiritual warrior.” Both of these illuminate my purposeful life. This simple exercise sparks self-inquiry and a sense of connection to identity.
Another exercise involves exploring regrets, drawing on Daniel Pink’s The Power of Regret. Reflecting on the four universal types of regret humans feel—foundation, boldness, moral, and connection—helps people see what they value most, and what actions they don’t want to regret later. For me, it’s motivating to imagine 20 years from now: I don’t want to regret neglecting my health or letting fear stop me from living and creating what I know is important to my purpose.
The Benefits of Articulating Personal Purpose
- Clarity & Awareness: A personal north star for aligned choices in career and life.
- Meaning Fuels Engagement: Daily life feels more energized and intentional.
- Bridging Inner Conflicts: Helps reconcile competing priorities or doubts.
- Surfacing Barriers & Opportunities: Reveals limiting beliefs and new possibilities.
The Benefits of Activating Personal Purpose
- Alignment & Cohesion: Decisions in work, health, and contribution align with values.
- Energy & Momentum: Fuels enthusiasm and resilience, especially in transitions.
- Trust & Service: Inspires meaningful contribution to family, community, causes and legacy.
- Human Context in the AI Era: Anchors life choices in values amidst rapid change.
- Wellbeing & Resilience: Research shows purpose improves health, reduces loneliness, and supports successful aging.
When individuals activate purpose, it becomes a daily practice of living aligned, meaningful lives.
👉 This is why I created the Purpose Portfolio Workshop—a guided journey for individuals and groups to articulate and activate their purpose in a supportive, inspiring space.