5 steps To Find Your Purpose (The Fast Track To Build The Life You Want)
In this episode of the On Purpose with Jay Shetty podcast, Shetty outlines 5 steps to help individuals find their purpose in life. Starting with the importance of mindfulness and being present, he guides listeners through exercises to ground them in the current moment.
Shetty moves on to discuss elements of a meaningful life like cultivating a sense of belonging, pursuing continuous learning, embracing individuality, and making a positive impact on others. He also provides strategies to overcome negative mindsets, reframe envy as an opportunity for growth, and build a diverse support network that expands one's horizons. Throughout, Shetty emphasizes that purpose transcends external factors and involves discovering one's authentic self.
This is a preview of the Shortform summary of the Mar 28, 2025 episode of the On Purpose with Jay Shetty
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1-Page Summary
Mindfulness and Being Present
Jay Shetty leads meditation exercises that engage the five senses to ground individuals in the present moment. He instructs participants to plant their feet, put away phones, and note things they can see, touch, hear, smell, and taste around them, anchoring their awareness to the immediate experience.
Finding Purpose and Meaning in Life
Purpose Not Defined by External Markers of Success
According to Shetty, purpose transcends one's job, money, fame, or another person. He cautions against limiting purpose to external factors or making an individual's purpose dependent on someone else.
Exploring the Key Elements of a Meaningful Life
Belonging and Being Part of Something Bigger
Shetty emphasizes belonging and being part of a larger community as vital for finding purpose. He discusses how traditions, workplaces, and group activities can cultivate this sense of connection.
Continuously Learning and Expanding Your Horizons
Individuals with purpose continuously explore new interests and expand their learning across fields, Shetty notes. He shares his own experiences broadening horizons through travel.
Embracing Your Unique Individuality and Self-Expression
While professional traits may differ from personal ones, Shetty encourages embracing individuality and finding unique modes of self-expression outside work roles.
Feeling a Deep Sense of Significance and Impact
Shetty links purpose to creating positive impacts in others' lives, which can provide a profound sense of meaning, as exemplified by hospital cleaners who view their work as healing.
Serving and Contributing To Others
Contributing to others' well-being through service is another way of fostering purpose that Shetty highlights.
Overcoming Negative Mindsets and Cultivating Positive Ones
Letting Go of Outdated Habits and Mindsets
Shetty uses a metaphor to illustrate how once-helpful mindsets can become burdens if clung to inappropriately. He advises reflecting on what might be hindering growth.
Reframing Envy As an Opportunity For Growth
Studying Envy Can Reveal Unmet Needs or Goals
Analyzing feelings of envy towards others' achievements can reveal one's own unfulfilled desires or goals, according to Shetty.
Cultivating Compassion for Yourself and Others, Not Judgment
Rather than judging struggles, Shetty advocates cultivating compassion - for others as well as towards oneself during personal challenges.
Building a Support Network That Expands Your Perspectives
Surround Yourself With Diverse, Innovative Individuals
Shetty recommends auditing one's closest circle to ensure it includes diverse perspectives that can prompt growth and expose new ideas.
1-Page Summary
Additional Materials
Counterarguments
- While mindfulness and being present are beneficial, some individuals may find it challenging to engage in these practices due to underlying mental health issues or environmental distractions that require more than meditation to manage.
- Defining purpose independently of external markers can be empowering, but societal structures and pressures often make it difficult for individuals to separate their sense of self-worth from their job or social status.
- The idea of belonging to a larger community is important, but some people may find purpose in solitude or in pursuing individualistic goals that do not necessarily involve a community.
- Continuous learning is valuable, but it can also lead to burnout if not balanced with rest and leisure. Additionally, not everyone may have the resources or opportunities to continuously expand their horizons.
- Embracing individuality is crucial, but it can sometimes conflict with societal norms or workplace expectations, which can create tension and stress for individuals trying to express themselves.
- Linking purpose to creating a positive impact can be fulfilling, but it might also put undue pressure on individuals to find significance in their actions, leading to feelings of inadequacy if they perceive their impact as insufficient.
- The concept of serving others is noble, but it should not come at the expense of one's own well-being, and individuals should be encouraged to set healthy boundaries.
- Letting go of outdated habits and mindsets is easier said than done, and some individuals may require professional support to change deeply ingrained patterns of behavior.
- While reframing envy as an opportunity for growth is constructive, it is also important to acknowledge that envy can sometimes stem from systemic inequalities that cannot be easily addressed by individual reflection.
- Building a diverse support network is beneficial, but it may not be feasible for everyone due to various barriers such as location, social anxiety, or lack of access to diverse communities.
Actionables
- You can create a sensory journal to practice mindfulness by recording daily observations using all five senses. Start by dedicating a few minutes each day to jot down what you see, touch, hear, smell, and taste in a specific moment. This could be during your morning coffee, on a walk, or while taking a break at work. The act of writing helps reinforce the sensory experience and anchors you in the present.
- Develop a 'purpose statement' for yourself that is independent of external validation. Take some time to reflect on what makes you feel significant and how you can serve others. Write a statement that encapsulates this, and review it regularly to ensure your actions align with your intrinsic values. For example, if you find joy in helping others learn, your purpose statement might be, "I am at my best when I am sharing knowledge and empowering others to grow."
- Initiate a 'compassion practice' by setting aside a few minutes each day to send positive thoughts to people you know and even those you don't. This could involve thinking of a friend and mentally wishing them happiness, or it could be as simple as looking at strangers you pass on the street and silently hoping for their well-being. Over time, this practice can help cultivate a habit of compassion over judgment, enhancing your sense of connection to the larger community.
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Mindfulness and Being Present
Jay Shetty emphasizes the importance of mindfulness and being present during meditation sessions. He leads his audience through practical exercises that utilize the senses to ground individuals in the present moment.
Mindfulness Through Grounding Exercises Engaging the Senses
Observing and Focusing On Your Surroundings Using Senses Can Anchor You In the Present Moment
During a grounding meditation session, Shetty assists participants in becoming fully present. He instructs them to plant their feet firmly on the ground, put away their phones, and release anything from their hands. He then guides them to use their senses to anchor themselves to the present.
Shetty encourages participants to look around and note five things they can see, urging them to observe the colors, shades, and shapes deeply. He directs them to be aware of four things they can touch, paying close attention to the textures and temperature.
Furthermore, he asks them to focus on three things they can hear, treating each sound as a focal point instead of a disruption. Shetty leads them to consider two things they can smell, engaging presence through the olfactory senses.
Finally, participants are asked to concentrate on one thing they can taste, thereby grounding themselves in the present through the sense of taste. Completing the meditation, Shetty ...
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Mindfulness and Being Present
Additional Materials
Counterarguments
- Mindfulness may not be suitable for everyone, and some individuals may find it difficult to engage in these practices due to personal preferences or mental health issues such as anxiety or PTSD.
- The effectiveness of mindfulness can vary from person to person, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to cultivating presence.
- Some critics argue that mindfulness has been commercialized and stripped of its original spiritual and cultural context, which may affect its authenticity and depth.
- There is a risk of mindfulness being used as a temporary escape rather than addressing underlying issues that may require professional help, such as therapy or counseling.
- The sensory grounding exercises may not be practical in all environments, particularly in situations where the environment is overstimulating or unsafe.
- Relying solely on mindfulness and meditation may lead to neglecting other important aspects of health, su ...
Actionables
- Turn your morning shower into a mindfulness practice by focusing on the sensations of water and incorporating balance exercises. As you shower, pay attention to the temperature of the water and how it feels on different parts of your body. To enhance mindfulness, stand on one leg for a minute and then switch, concentrating on maintaining balance. This not only grounds you in the present but also improves your physical stability.
- Create a sensory snack break at work to reset your focus and presence. Choose a variety of textures and flavors, like crunchy carrots, smooth chocolate, or aromatic tea. Spend a few minutes in a quiet space, if possible, and engage all your senses as you eat, noting the textures, tastes, sounds, and aromas. This can serve as a brief mindfulness exercise that also re-energizes you for the rest of your workday.
- Use waiting time as an opportunity for a mini-mindfulness session by engaging in a discreet sensor ...
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Finding Purpose and Meaning in Life
Jay Shetty delves into the complex journey of finding purpose and meaning in life, distinguishing it from the more straightforward path to success.
Purpose Not Defined by External Markers of Success
Purpose Transcends Job, Fame, Money, and One Person
Jay Shetty suggests that unlike success, which has tangible markers like promotions and company milestones, purpose is less clear-cut. It doesn’t need to be connected to one's job, nor include making money or achieving fame. Defining purpose on such external factors, Shetty argues, is limiting and unfulfilling. One’s sense of purpose should also not depend on other individuals, as this can create a void when that person is no longer present. He warns against making another person one's purpose, as witnessed in long-term relationships or toxic partnerships. Instead, purpose should transcend job, fame, money, and individual persons.
Exploring the Key Elements of a Meaningful Life
Belonging and Being Part of Something Bigger
Shetty speaks to the importance of belonging, asserting that people with purpose feel a strong sense of belonging. He discusses how traditional community and family networks once provided this sense, but many now feel isolated due to modern lifestyles. Shetty underscores the significance of being part of something bigger than oneself and stresses the necessity of openness and vulnerability in fostering true belonging. He cites his time at a retreat in Bhutan and suggests participation in groups like YPO can deepen connections.
Historically, places of worship represented belonging and community, but focus has shifted towards business and commerce. Hospital cleaners who view themselves as healers exhibit a belonging to the larger process of healing, by emphasizing the importance of their role in patients' recovery.
Continuously Learning and Expanding Your Horizons
Shetty reflects on how individuals with a strong sense of purpose invest time in cultivating their passions across various fields. These individuals did not wait to suddenly discover their passions; rather, they actively explored and saw how their interests evolved. He also talks about his own experiences visiting new cultures and histories, which expanded his learning and prompted him to encourage others to broaden their networks to include unexpected or unfamiliar connections.
Embracing Your Unique Individuality and Self-Expression
Highlighting the importance of individuality, Shetty notes the distinction between professional and personal individuality. Sharing a story of ...
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Finding Purpose and Meaning in Life
Additional Materials
Counterarguments
- Purpose can sometimes be intertwined with external markers of success, as these can provide a sense of achievement and validation that contribute to an individual's sense of purpose.
- Some individuals may find purpose within their job or through financial stability, which can provide them with the means to pursue other meaningful activities or support loved ones.
- The concept of belonging might not be equally important to everyone; some individuals may find purpose in solitude or in pursuits that do not necessarily involve being part of a larger community.
- Continuous learning and expanding horizons, while generally positive, can lead to a sense of never being satisfied or always seeking something new, which can be counterproductive to finding contentment.
- Emphasizing unique individuality and self-expression might not resonate with cultures or individuals who value c ...
Actionables
- You can create a personal purpose statement that reflects your values and aspirations beyond societal success markers. Start by listing what you value most in life, such as relationships, personal growth, creativity, or community service. Then, draft a statement that encapsulates these values as your guiding purpose, regardless of your job or social status. For example, if you value creativity and learning, your purpose statement might be, "To live a life fueled by curiosity and creative expression, continuously seeking knowledge and opportunities to share it with others."
- Engage in a "skill-swap" with friends or community members to foster belonging and continuous learning. Find a skill you can offer, like cooking, basic language skills, or gardening, and swap lessons with someone who can teach you something new. This exchange promotes a sense of community and helps you expand your horizons without the need for formal education. For instance, you could teach someone how to bake bread in exchange for learning how to play a few chords on the guitar.
- Start a "ripple journal" to track ...
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Overcoming Negative Mindsets and Cultivating Positive Ones
Jay Shetty provides insights on how to overcome negative mindsets and cultivate positive ones by letting go of the past, reframing envy, and building a supportive network.
Letting Go of Outdated Habits and Mindsets
Shetty shares a metaphor about a man who creates a raft to cross a river, which saves his life. However, he carries the raft everywhere afterward, and it becomes a burden. This story symbolizes how past successful mindsets, habits, and practices can become obsolete and hinder our progress if we cling to them in new situations.
Letting Go Of Things That Once Helped but now Hold You Back
Shetty urges listeners to reflect on what might be holding them back. He warns against hating the habits that once led to success, which creates a critical culture within and hampers growth. The key, according to a Zen proverb he quotes, is recognizing, "Letting go is hard, but holding on is harder."
Reframing Envy As an Opportunity For Growth
Among high achievers, envy can be a sign of unmet needs or goals. Shetty suggests that examining our feelings of envy can uncover deeper desires or deficiencies.
Studying Envy Can Reveal Unmet Needs or Goals
Shetty discusses feelings of envy with a client, helping them realize the envy reflected a lack of feeling "fully loved." He encourages analyzing what aspect of another we envy to understand our desires and potential goals.
Cultivating Compassion for Yourself and Others, Not Judgment
He notes that high performers often become hard-hearted, expecting others to overcome challenges without struggle. Alternately, Shetty suggests, those with purpose become soft-hearted and compassionate, recognizing the difficulty of those same challenges. Compassion for others is tied to self-compassion, and Shetty advises against critical self-talk, which can be detrimental.
Shetty encourages replacing judgment with understanding and showing kindness to oneself during personal struggles or failures. He also explains that meaning and purpose align with compassio ...
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Overcoming Negative Mindsets and Cultivating Positive Ones
Additional Materials
Counterarguments
- While letting go of outdated habits is important, some past mindsets and practices may still hold value and can be adapted to new situations rather than discarded entirely.
- Reflecting on negative habits is beneficial, but it's also important to balance this with an appreciation for the positive habits and mindsets that continue to serve us well.
- Envy can sometimes be a destructive emotion if not managed properly, leading to resentment and a negative mindset rather than constructive growth.
- Not all feelings of envy can be constructively reframed; in some cases, it may be healthier to focus on gratitude for what one has rather than on what others possess.
- Compassion is important, but so is accountability. There needs to be a balance between understanding and encouraging personal responsibility.
- Self-compassion should not be used as an excuse for complacency or avoiding necessary self-improvement.
- While diverse networks can be beneficial, they can also lead to information overload or conflicting advice that hampers decision-making.
- The idea that you are the average of the five people you spend the most time with is an overs ...
Actionables
- You can start a "Let Go Log" where you jot down old habits or mindsets each week that may no longer serve your current goals, helping you to consciously release them.
- For example, if you notice you're still following a work routine that was effective at a previous job but is inefficient now, write it down and brainstorm new approaches that align with your current position's demands.
- Create a "Compassion Reminder" in your phone or on your computer to prompt you to practice self-kindness during challenging moments throughout the day.
- Set up notifications with messages like "What's something positive I did today?" or "How can I be kind to myself right now?" This can help shift your focus from self-criticism to self-compassion, especially when you're struggling with a task or facing a setback.
- Organize a monthly "Perspective Dinner" where you invite frien ...
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