Foundations of Purpose: [Purpose Series #3]

Enlightenment is Everywhere

We are seeing increasing evidence of a purposeful existence—the intersection of happiness, flourishing, mindfulness, and, yes, purpose. This is a great thing. More people recognize that an intentional life brings fulfillment, deeper meaning, stronger relationships, and better physical, mental, and spiritual health. Living with an aligned purpose is essential.

The Origins of Purpose

It’s easy to assume that what is topical is also new. However, the pursuit of purpose is deeply rooted in history.

Ancient Philosophy and the Search for Meaning

The quest for purpose is as old as civilization itself. Over 2,400 years ago, Plato introduced the concept of the Form of the Good in The Republic, arguing that understanding this highest form of knowledge leads to a just and fulfilling life. His advocacy for pursuing the Good aligns with modern ideas of purpose.

Aristotle: Purpose as Flourishing

Aristotle (384–322 BCE) expanded on Plato’s ideas, introducing telos (end or purpose) and eudaimonia (human flourishing). He argued that true fulfillment comes from actualizing one’s potential and living virtuously, reinforcing that purpose is deeply tied to personal growth.

Viktor Frankl and Purpose in Adversity

Fast-forward to the 20th century, and Viktor Frankl—a neurologist, psychiatrist, Holocaust survivor, and founder of logotherapy—explored how a sense of purpose helps people endure suffering.

“He who has a why to live can bear almost any how.” — Viktor Frankl

Purpose in the Workplace: Peter Drucker’s Influence

The Industrial Revolution and corporate culture brought purpose into the professional sphere. Peter Drucker, the father of modern management, emphasized that work should be meaningful. In Post-Capitalist Society (1993), he argued that knowledge workers must align work with purpose to stay motivated. Later, in Management Challenges for the 21st Century (1999), he insisted that businesses integrate social responsibility into their mission.  His core belief? Profit is not the purpose of a business—it is a byproduct of serving a broader mission.

Modern Thought Leaders on Purpose

Today, purpose remains central to leadership and business.  Simon Sinek’s Start with Why (2009) emphasizes that defining a clear purpose inspires people.  Ranjay Gulati’s Deep Purpose (2022) argues that purpose is more than a statement—it’s a transformative force that aligns profit with impact.

“Purpose is not a goal to be achieved but a way of being, a lens through which leaders and organizations make decisions.” — Ranjay Gulati

Purpose has found its time. More than ever, people recognize its role in effectiveness, performance, and long-term impact.  Click here to check out a recent post with a list of the purpose based books that inspired me in Q4 2024.  

Defining Purpose

There are many definitions of purpose, but some of the most influential for me include:

Ikigai: A Japanese Philosophy of Purpose

Ikigai translates to “reason for being”, emphasizing the intersection of:

What you love

  What you’re good at.

  What the world needs

 What you can be paid for

Ikigai suggests that fulfillment comes from balancing these elements.

Personal Reflection

This model aligns closely with my own thinking. Everyone has a purpose—whether they fully know it, have a vague idea of it, or are still on a quest to uncover it. I think of purpose as the combination of our strengths, passions, values, and motivators. Together, these elements create a unique calling that provides an insatiable pull and enduring inspiration.

Understanding my purpose has been an evolving process. Early on, I was driven by external validation—excelling in leadership and strategy but sometimes feeling disconnected from deeper meaning. As I grew, I recognized that what mattered most was inspiring others, meaningful work, mentorship, and building purpose-driven organizations.

Core Elements of Purpose

1.  Values: The Anchors of Purpose

My introduction to core values came from writing my life guide, originally inspired by The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. I had long understood values in business but hadn’t applied them to my life. Defining my personal core values changed that—it helped me live in alignment with what truly matters.

For me, core values are not abstract ideals but guiding principles that shape my daily decisions. My personal core values:

• Authenticity (truthfulness, genuineness): Authentic people don’t seek approval. They show up as they are and speak their truth.
• Freedom (liberty, freedom of action and thought): Those who value freedom want to live on their own terms, without unnecessary constraints.
• Growth (physical, intellectual, and spiritual development): Growth is a lifelong process, empowering us to shape our own path.
• Family (caring for loved ones): Family provides love, security, and purpose. Investing in family relationships is foundational.
• Meaningful Work (positive impact on others): Work should contribute to something greater. Seeing value in your work fuels engagement and prevents burnout.
• Success (achieving desired results): Success builds confidence, self-esteem, and fulfillment.

These values guide my choices, influence how I engage with others, and keep my work and life aligned.

2.  Unique Gifts: Strengths That Drive Us

We each have unique strengths that fuel our energy, engagement, and impact. When our work aligns with these strengths, we operate with authenticity and purpose.

The VIA Character Strengths framework identifies key strengths that shape how we lead and connect. My top strengths are:

• Creativity (Wisdom): I thrive on generating ideas and solving problems in innovative ways.
• Humor (Transcendence): Humor helps me foster connection, perspective, and resilience.
• Perspective (Wisdom): Seeing the big picture allows me to guide others with clarity.
• Leadership (Justice): Collaboration and responsibility drive my mentorship approach.
• Honesty (Courage): Authenticity builds trust and deep relationships.

Recognizing and leveraging these strengths isn’t just self-awareness—it’s a commitment to intentional living. When we embrace our strengths, we amplify our impact and create lasting purpose.

Call to Action

“The two most important days in your life are the day you are born and the day you find out why.” — Mark Twain

Purpose is both deeply personal and universally essential. It is a lifelong journey—one that aligns values, strengths, and meaningful impact.  In order to explore your own purpose, there are a few suggestions that will get you on your way.  

• Reflect: What does purpose mean to you? Share your thoughts in the comments below if you are feeling particularly inspired.
• Explore: Take the free VIA Character Strengths assessment to understand your unique gifts better.
• Write:  Steven Covey, in his book, 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, proposes writing your own personal mission statement that is grounded in your personal values.
• Stay Connected: Future posts will dive into purpose in action.