You want meaning, but you are stuck in the noise. Chasing distractions. Drifting through the motions. The truth? Meaning and purpose are not handed to you on a silver platter—they are forged by fire. They are shaped by the blood, sweat, and tears you are willing to shed as you step up to own your life.
So, let me cut through the fluff: you do not just “find” your purpose—you create it. But you cannot do that by staying comfortable. You cannot do that by staying in the same environment that has kept you stuck. And you sure as hell cannot do it by clinging to excuses and playing the victim.
There was a time in my life when I felt completely devoid of purpose. After years of relentless emotional abuse and deep relational neglect in my marriage, I reached a breaking point—I decided to end my own life. But in that moment, as I prepared to go through with it, I realized I did not even know how to tie a rope. That realization struck me like a bolt of truth: I needed a purpose, even if it was as simple as learning to tie knots. That small awareness became the lifeline that pulled me out of the darkness. Even while enduring daily emotional abuse, I started taking small actions to better myself and my life. It was excruciating. The weight of marital C-PTSD crushed me, and I often sobbed through books, podcasts, and classes. But despite the pain, those moments of struggle were the beginning of something far greater than I could have imagined.
Step One: Get Real About What Actually Matters
You have to sit down, face yourself, and figure out what truly matters to you—not what society, your friends, or even your family say should matter. Dive into your core values: honesty, responsibility, ownership, service. What gives your life meaning? What truly fulfills you at a soul-deep level?
Let us be brutally honest here—you are not going to find your purpose or transform your life on autopilot. It is not going to show up while you are scrolling through social media, playing video games, numbing yourself with distractions, or avoiding the real work. You must sit with your thoughts, reflect, and dig deep. But self-awareness alone is not enough—you must take massive action. Otherwise, stop complaining that your life sucks and stop blaming your spouse, parents, or boss.
Make a list of the things that genuinely fulfill you—things that bring lasting meaning, not fleeting distractions like drinking, concerts, or mindless entertainment. Those are just ways to keep you mentally stuck in mediocrity. I am talking about actions that make a difference in your life and in the lives of others. The problem is, many people are so numb they do not even recognize the incredible feeling that comes from serving others.
Start at home—practice service to those around you, not because you want something in return, not even a thank you. Serve because it builds your integrity and character. Then, expand beyond your home—volunteer every chance you get, grow your network, and commit to learning and improving yourself every single day. Connect with your deepest, most meaningful passions—the ones that stand the test of time.
Let me be clear: drugs, drinking, gaming, partying, numbing yourself with distractions—these are not passions. Wake up and get real. And let us not forget those who are always busy doing the wrong things—if that is you, get a grip.
If you have a family, if you have children, and you are spending your time on porn, partying with your buddies, or avoiding responsibilities, then what do you expect? If your marriage is falling apart, you need to take accountability. The same goes for women—if your focus is more on how you look and dress rather than how you raise your children, develop your values, and grow as a person, then what do you expect? Do you think your children will magically grow into responsible, honorable adults? No, they will not.
It is time to rise up. Do what is right, with meaning and honor. The freedom that comes from living with purpose is unexplainable. You are searching for it—I know you are—but you are looking in all the wrong places.
Once you find what truly lights you up, you have your roadmap. Do not settle for anything less than what makes you come alive.
Step Two: Integrate, Do Not Settle
So now you know what matters. But knowing is not enough. You have to do. It is time to integrate those values into every part of your life. You do not wait for the perfect job to show up or the perfect conditions. You start small, but you start now. Find ways to align your life with your values, even if it is messy, uncomfortable, and requires you to take risks.
Look, this is not about wishful thinking. This is about action. It is about stepping outside your comfort zone and doing what most people will not do. If your job does not align with your values, look for another. If your relationships drain you, it is time to cut ties. If you are stuck, get the hell out of that rut and get moving. No one is coming to save you—you have to save yourself.
Step Three: Set Goals That Ignite Your Soul
Now that you are clear on your values, it is time to set goals that stretch you. Not goals that are safe. Not goals that are easy. I am talking about goals that make you uncomfortable—goals that force you to grow, to challenge your limits, to rise to the occasion.
Whether that is starting a new career, traveling to unknown places, or launching that business you have been putting off—aim high. And keep your goals aligned with your values. That is what will keep you driven when the inevitable challenges arise.
Let me be clear: Growth requires discomfort. It requires sacrifice. But it also brings something far greater—fulfillment. Confidence. Power. And the sense that you are finally living on your terms.
Final Thoughts: Are You Ready to Transform?
Finding meaning and purpose is not about some mystical revelation. It is about taking responsibility for your life and using every ounce of your energy to create a reality that aligns with your deepest values. You will be tested. You will face resistance. But if you are willing to push through, if you are willing to challenge yourself, the rewards will be beyond anything you have imagined.
So, here is the question: Are you ready to step up, own your truth, and create a life that truly fulfills you? Because no one else can do it for you. This is your time. This is your moment. Rise.