Finding Purposeful Living: 5 Ways to Enhance Your Life Today

By Dr. Sue Paul, Senior Director of Well-Being and Brain Health, Asbury Communities

Have you ever paused to ask yourself, “What gives my life meaning?” It’s a question that can spark deep reflection—and sometimes, it can feel overwhelming. Purpose isn’t just a lofty ideal; it’s a fundamental piece of living a healthy, vibrant life. Studies show that having a sense of purpose improves mental health, increases resilience, and even extends longevity. At Asbury Communities, we embrace purposeful living as a cornerstone of our well-being philosophy.

But what does living with purpose look like? More importantly, how can we cultivate it? Here are five expert-backed ways to bring more purpose into your life—and into your day.

1. Connect with Your Passions

What lights you up? Whether it’s gardening, painting, or volunteering, reconnecting with your passions can be a gateway to purpose. I recently spoke with a resident who rediscovered his love for music after years away from the piano. Now, he leads weekly sing-alongs in his community, sparking joy in himself and others. Reflect on the activities that bring you fulfillment and find ways to make them a regular part of your life.

2. Build Meaningful Relationships

Humans are wired for connection. Building strong relationships can give life more meaning and improve your overall well-being. Whether it’s spending quality time with loved ones or joining a local club, connecting with others is a simple yet powerful way to add purpose to your days. At Asbury, we see how relationships—especially intergenerational ones—create lasting memories and a sense of community.

At Asbury Methodist Village in Gaithersburg, Maryland, one of the most inspiring aspects of our Greater Beloved Community Initiative is how our residents take the lead

in creating a welcoming environment for all. Through our Asbury programs, residents are helping to foster meaningful connections where everyone feels valued, included, and supported. These resident-run initiatives bring people together through shared experiences, strengthening relationships and deepening the sense of belonging within our community. It’s through these purposeful engagements that we embrace a life of meaning, where each of us has the opportunity to thrive.

3. Set Intentional Goals

Purpose doesn’t have to be monumental—it can be as simple as setting a goal that matters to you. Maybe it’s walking a certain number of steps daily, cooking a healthy meal, or learning a new skill. Breaking your goals into achievable steps creates momentum and gives you something to look forward to. Experts suggest writing your goals down to make them more tangible and celebrating each milestone along the way.

4. Give Back

Purpose thrives when we make a difference in the lives of others. Volunteering, mentoring, or even offering a kind word to someone in need can create a ripple effect of positivity. One Asbury resident shared how volunteering with local students gave her a renewed sense of meaning. “They teach me as much as I teach them,” she said. Acts of kindness, no matter how small, often leave a profound impact.

5. Embrace Gratitude

Gratitude shifts your focus from what’s missing to what’s meaningful. Starting each day by reflecting on what you’re thankful for can reframe your perspective and amplify your sense of purpose. Gratitude journaling, meditation, or simply sharing appreciation with others are easy ways to practice this habit. As one resident wisely told me, “Gratitude is a bridge to purpose.”

Living purposefully isn’t a destination—it’s a journey. It’s about tuning into what matters most to you and weaving it into the fabric of your daily life. At Asbury Communities, we’re committed to helping residents and associates alike discover what fills their days with meaning.

So, I challenge you to take one small step toward purposeful living today. Ask yourself: What brings me joy? What makes me feel alive? Purpose is waiting for you—it’s time to embrace it.

Let’s keep this conversation going. What’s one thing you’ll do this week to live with more purpose? Share your thoughts—I’d love to hear from you!