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Purpose -

Research has shown there is a link between a strong sense of purpose and resilience. A downside to searching for purpose is that it can lead to purpose anxiety.

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The psychology of purpose -

Purpose covers such a vast expanse of human experience that it's difficult to know where to begin. Psychologist Jonathan Haidt says to understand the meaning of life we should answer two questions: What is the purpose of life? and what is the purpose within life?

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Having a sense of purpose -

A 2014 study found that having a sense of purpose in life led to better physical health, resulting in a longer life expectancy.

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The trouble with searching for a sense of purpose -

While having a sense of purpose comes with amazing benefits, it puts pressure on those who have no idea what their purpose might be. 

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What is purpose anxiety? -

According to researcher Larissa Rainey, purpose anxiety can be "provisionally defined as the negative emotions experienced in direct relation to the search for purpose."

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Purpose anxiety at different stages -

Rainey also states that purpose anxiety can be experienced at two different stages: While struggling to uncover what your purpose might be and while attempting to enact or live your purpose.

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Purpose anxiety on a spectrum -

Purpose anxiety can cause a range of emotions, including stress, frustration, and fear. These emotions can be experienced on a spectrum from mild to severe.

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Signs you have purpose anxiety: constantly switching jobs -

If you find yourself job-hopping to find the "perfect" role or looking to external cues through your job or company to indicate you've "found purpose" you may be experiencing purpose anxiety.

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Feeling like a failure -

Purpose anxiety keeps people trapped in a cycle of limiting and negative emotions, which ultimately blocks them from the benefits of a purposeful existence.

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Negative comparisons -

With young social media influencers and other high-profile individuals routinely sharing how they found purpose, people can end up negatively comparing their own journeys.

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Worrying if you'll never find your one, true purpose -

If you're experiencing purpose anxiety, finding purpose can feel daunting and like a stab in the dark rather than a positive journey.

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Inability to acknowledge accomplishments -

If you find yourself stuck in a negative thought loop, it becomes difficult to recall positive experiences and accomplishments.

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How to switch your purpose mindset -

If striving for purpose is causing stress, you may need to proactively switch up your mindset and pursue your purpose in more positive ways.

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Purpose comes from self-knowledge -

Curiosity, self-discovery, and self-acceptance are essential for finding a sense of purpose. Take the time to know, understand, and accept yourself. 

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Purpose needs to be created, not found -

Purpose isn't something just waiting to be discovered, it's a goal to always work toward. 

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Clarify your values -

Identify what's really important to you so you can look at ways to achieve it. By recognizing values, you can bring in shorter, obtainable goals.

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Purpose grows from personal experiences and challenges -

Purpose sounds like a huge venture—like ending world hunger or achieving world peace—but you can also find purpose in the day-to-day, whether that's being a good parent or making a loved one's life more pleasant.

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Purpose isn't fixed -

Purpose can be defined in a plethora of ways, and the purpose you find today might not be the same as the one you find yourself living in a few weeks, months, or years from now.

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Acknowledge that no one really has the answers -

No one really has their life figured out. And if we knew the answers right away, life wouldn't be exciting. It's okay to take your time finding purpose.

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Talk to a friend -

Talk about your thoughts with a loved one. You may find that they can relate; everyone feels lost at some point or another. Remind yourself that you are never alone.

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Create change -

Create change to make your life healthier and happier. Getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet, and exercising will make you feel more in control and capable.

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Start a new hobby -

Start a new hobby you've always wanted to try, whether training for a long-distance run or auditioning for a play. Life is short, so make the most of it.

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Try breathing techniques -

Learn breathing techniques to be grounded in the present moment instead of being consumed by thoughts of your purpose in life.

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Keep a gratitude journal -

Your life probably has more meaning and purpose than you think. Each day, write down everything you're grateful for. This might include work, family, and your own qualities and accomplishments.

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Cut out caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine -

Caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine can exacerbate the effects of anxiety, so consider cutting them out of your diet.

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Make the most of your skills and experiences -

Each of us is unique and has unique abilities. Identify your strengths and find ways to use more of them, whether that's public speaking or knitting.

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Existential crisis -

Purpose anxiety can lead to an existential crisis, which is defined as a recurring pattern of thoughts regarding your identity, purpose in life, and legacy. 

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Existential crisis -

Causes of an existential crisis include guilt, the loss of a loved one, dissatisfaction with oneself, and a history of repressing emotions.

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When to contact a healthcare professional -

If feelings of anxiety or despair don't go away or worsen, contact a psychiatrist, psychologist, or therapist. These mental health professionals can help you cope through talk therapy or cognitive behavioral therapy.

Sources: (Healthline) (Emotion Matters)

See also: Foods that help combat stress, anxiety, and depression

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