How to find purpose in life when we feel low, confused and lost?

When we're feeling low, confused, or lost, finding purpose and meaning in life can seem like an insurmountable challenge.
Seeing meaning when feeling at our lowest, when thinking 'Why bother?' rather than 'Let's explore possibilities,' is a place each of us has visited and would rather avoid. It may feel challenging at times, but even when we are in that low mode, remembering that this too shall pass may already make us feel better. Feeling lost and confused is actually a great place to be – the more challenging a situation we are in, the greater the growth and transformation that can come from it. It may feel far from 'Wow! I feel so low, but it is great!' but awareness of this state being a temporary stage in a process we are going through is a very powerful tool on its own.

Here are three useful tips to help you feel better:

1. Reconnect with Your Why: Take time to reflect on your values, passions and motivations. Remind yourself of the goals and values that inspire you and use them as anchors to regain clarity. Journaling and meditation can help you gain clarity on what truly matters to you and identify steps you can take to align your actions with your aspirations.

2. Seek Guidance and Support: Reach out to mentors, coaches, or supportive friends and family members who can offer guidance and perspective. Having someone to share your struggles with and receive constructive feedback from can provide valuable insights and encouragement.

3. Practice Self-Compassion and Patience: Be gentle with yourself during moments of uncertainty and difficulty. Acknowledge that setbacks and challenges are a natural part of the self-development process, and treat yourself with kindness and understanding. Practice patience and trust that with time and perseverance, clarity and progress will emerge.

And now let’s have a look at the list below of several approaches rooted in research, neuroscience, and personal development that can help us navigate the journey of finding purpose and meaning when feeling low:

1. Connect with Your Passions: Take some time to reflect on the activities, interests, and experiences that bring you joy and fulfilment. Engaging in activities that align with our passions can increase our sense of purpose and well-being. Whether it's painting, writing, volunteering, or spending time in nature, prioritise activities that ignite your passion and make you feel alive.

2. Connect with Your Inner Self: Take time for self-reflection and introspection. Journaling, meditation, or simply quiet contemplation can help you tune into your inner wisdom and uncover what truly matters to you. By exploring your passions, values, and aspirations, you can begin to identify the activities and experiences that bring meaning and fulfilment to your life.

3. Explore Your Values: Our values serve as guiding principles that shape our decisions, behaviours, and priorities. Reflect on what matters most to you in life, whether it's kindness, creativity, authenticity, or growth. Living in alignment with our values is associated with greater life satisfaction and well-being. By clarifying your values and making decisions that honour them, you can cultivate a deeper sense of purpose and meaning.

4. Practice Gratitude: Cultivating gratitude can help shift our perspective from focusing on what we lack to appreciating what we have. Practising gratitude can enhance our overall well-being and sense of purpose. Take time each day to acknowledge and appreciate the blessings in your life, whether it's your relationships, health, or simple pleasures like a beautiful sunset or a warm cup of tea. Over time, you'll train your brain to notice the abundance in your life, even during challenging times.

5. Set Meaningful Goals: Setting and pursuing meaningful goals can give our lives direction and purpose. Having goals that are aligned with our values and interests can increase our motivation and sense of fulfilment. Identify specific, achievable goals that resonate with your values and aspirations, and take concrete steps towards achieving them. Celebrate your progress along the way, and remember that setbacks are a natural part of the journey.

6. Cultivate Meaningful Connections: Human connection is fundamental to our sense of purpose and belonging. Having strong social connections is associated with greater happiness, resilience, and life satisfaction. Invest time and energy in nurturing meaningful relationships with friends, family members, and community members who support and uplift you. Share your thoughts, feelings, and experiences with others, and be open to receiving support and guidance in return.

7. Engage in Self-Care: Prioritize self-care practices that nourish your mind, body, and spirit. This might include exercise, healthy eating, adequate sleep, spending time in nature, or engaging in creative activities that bring you joy. Taking care of your well-being is essential for maintaining resilience and staying motivated, even during challenging times.

8. Seek Support: Reach out for support from friends, family, or a trusted therapist or coach. Surround yourself with people who uplift and inspire you and ask for help when you need it. Remember, you're never alone on this journey, and there's strength in vulnerability and connection.

9. Embrace the Journey: Remember that finding purpose is a journey, rather than a destination. Allow yourself grace and compassion as you navigate the ups and downs of life. Embrace the lessons and growth opportunities that come with adversity, and trust that each experience, whether you perceive is as positive or negative, is guiding you towards greater clarity and purpose.

Finding purpose and meaning in life is a deeply personal journey that requires self-reflection, exploration, and resilience. By connecting with our passions, values, and relationships, practising gratitude, setting meaningful goals, and seeking support when needed, we can navigate through periods of confusion and uncertainty with greater clarity, purpose, and resilience. Remember that the journey towards finding purpose is ongoing and evolving, and each step we take brings us closer to living a more meaningful and fulfilling life.

By incorporating these practices into your daily life, you can gradually cultivate a sense of purpose and fulfilment, even during the darkest of times. Trust in your inner wisdom, stay open to new possibilities, and believe in your ability to create a life filled with meaning and purpose.