We all have days where our lives like the same boring routine but then other days when it feels like it is full of excitement. Sometimes, we may stop to wonder how we can have more of those days of fulfilment. Understanding our “why” can help create more of those days of excitement and purpose even in times of change. Our “why” refers to the intention and meaning behind the role we work in and the lives we hope to build. It is a driving force that motivates us to pursue aspirations, dreams and goals. Our “why” is often sourced from prior experiences, social connections, and future hopes. Remembering our “why” is critical because it helps ground us during seasonal shifts like changes in roles, relationships or responsibilities. What then, can help create, remember, or strengthen our “why”?

Focusing on our “why” starts with discovering or rediscovering our “who”. Our “why” is often connected to our identity and the parts of ourselves we are passionate about. Our identity can consist of two parts: personal and social. Personal identity focuses on the traits, skills, and talents that are specific to us individually. Social identity refers to shared characteristics that help us connect to larger communities.

Rediscovering the different parts of our identity helps us to see how our work reflects our values and supports who we are. In doing so, it helps strengthen our “why” by providing motivation to continue to do the work that matters most to us. The attached article helps to explore different aspects of identity as a starting point.

Another way to remember our “why” is to examine how the aspect of our work fulfils our inner wants and needs. Positive psychology offers an excellent framework for examining this through the PERMA model:

  • Positive emotion: Thinking about what aspects of our work make us happy, increase self-esteem, satisfaction, and gratefulness.
  • Engagement: Recognizing how our strengths are being applied and seen so we can be fully immersed in our work.
  • Relationships: Developing positive connections with others, whether in person or online
  • Meaning: Connecting our work to our purpose that extends beyond ourselves but into the community and support we care about.
  • Achievement: Shifting our focus on the adversity we have overcome and are currently overcoming helps build a sense of accomplishment.

Seeing how this framework can apply to our activities can help to increase the perceived value in our work and strengthen our “why”. The goal is not to have our entire “why” of our lives figured out instantly, as our “why” constantly develops and may even shift depending on the activity, role, or season we are in. However, it is important to consistently check in with ourselves by connecting to our “who” and our “why” with our activities.

Capital EAP hopes to help be a part of your trusted community that provides the skills and tools to reconnect with your “who” and remember your “why. If you feel you need trusted support, feel free to reach our intake team at 518-465-3813 to schedule an appointment. We would love to help you along your ever-growing journey of remembering your “why”.

By: Judeson Luctamar, MHC Intern