Why We’re Here: The Many Faces of Purpose

The word purpose is like a multifaceted gemstone—it has many sides and shines differently depending on how the light hits it. On one hand, we have our daily purposes, the roles we step into and fulfill every day. On the other hand, we have our soul’s purpose, the overarching reason for our existence that gives our life meaning and direction.

Daily Purpose: The Roles We Play

Our daily purposes are tied to the roles we take on in life—mother, father, sibling, friend, teacher, employee, leader, and so on. These are the hats we wear and the ways we show up for others in the world. Each role comes with its own set of responsibilities, and fulfilling these purposes often involves being present, nurturing relationships, and contributing to the lives of those around us.

For instance, as a(n):

• Parent, your purpose might be to provide a loving, supportive environment for your children to thrive.
• Friend, your purpose could be to lend an ear, offer support, or simply share joy and laughter.
• Employee or boss, your purpose may involve solving problems, inspiring others, or contributing to a collective goal.

These purposes are often situational and fluid—they shift and evolve with time. While important, they are outward-facing and tied to our interactions with others and our immediate environment.

Soul’s Purpose: The Why Behind It All

Your soul’s purpose, however, is much deeper and more expansive. It’s the core essence of why you are here on this earth. It’s less about what you do and more about who you are. Your soul’s purpose transcends individual roles and daily tasks; it’s the guiding compass that shapes how you move through life and the legacy you leave behind.

For example, if you’ve identified your soul’s purpose as making a meaningful difference by leaving a legacy of love, compassion, and positivity. This is the thread that needs to weave through every role you take on—it informs how you parent, how you show up as a friend, and how you lead in your community. It’s the “why” behind all your “whats.”

Harmonizing the Two

The beauty lies in aligning your daily purposes with your soul’s purpose. When you approach each role with the intention of living out your greater “why,” your actions become infused with meaning. Being a mother isn’t just about raising children; it becomes an opportunity to model love and compassion. Being a boss isn’t just about managing people; it’s about empowering others and creating a positive impact.

By differentiating between these layers of purpose, we can better understand how the small, everyday actions contribute to the greater picture of our lives. Our daily purposes may shift, but our soul’s purpose remains the constant force that grounds us and lights our way.