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“Research suggests that purpose is tied to having better health, longevity, and even economic success,” reports Jill Suttie in Greater Good Magazine from UC Berkeley. In the article, researcher Kendall Bronks states that people can find a sense of purpose either organically or through deliberate exercises and self-reflection. Sometimes, just having someone talk to you about what matters to you makes you think more intentionally about your life and your purpose. Even going through hard times can evoke a sense of purpose. The article goes on to suggest seven things you can do to enhance your own sense of purpose:

1. Identify things you care about, in your own community and beyond.

2. Reflect on what matters most—ranking your values using one of the questionnaires in the article can help.

3. Recognize your strengths and talents—and consider asking others what strengths they see in you.

4. Try volunteering in a project or organization that is meaningful to you.

5. Imagine your best possible self—and ask yourself what do you really care about and why?

6. Cultivate positive emotions like gratitude and awe, which are tied to both well-being and meaning.

7. Look to the people you admire for clues on what you want to contribute.

The book, From Teaching to Thinking, offers a “Thinking Lens for Reflective Teaching,” developed by Margie Carter, Deb Curtis, and Ann Pelo, that hones in on similar ideas specifically in the context of early childhood:

• Knowing Yourself
• Examining the Physical/Social/Emotional Environment
• Seeking the Child’s Point of View
• Finding the Details that Engage Your Heart and Mind
• Expanding Perspectives Through Collaboration and Research
• Considering Opportunities and Possibilities for Next Steps

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