What is Purpose?

Purpose is a forward-looking life aim that guides our behaviors and decisions. It's the feeling of direction in life that leads us toward activities that matter to us. Importantly, purpose doesn't have to be a specific activity or a grandiose goal; simply having the perception and feeling that one's life has direction can make a significant difference.

The Benefits of Purpose During Adolescence

Developing a sense of purpose is one of the key developmental tasks of adolescence (roughly ages 10-25). During this time, young people are establishing their values, goals, and identity, making it an ideal period to cultivate purpose. The benefits are numerous:

- Greater health and well-being

- Increased social connection

- Enhanced resilience

- Potential contributions to the world as they pursue their valued aim

Helping Your Teen Nurture Purpose

As parents, we can't give our teenagers a sense of purpose, but we can provide the support and opportunities they need to cultivate it themselves. Here are five ways to help:

1. Notice and encourage their sparks

Pay attention to when your teen lights up or becomes engaged in an activity. Encourage them to explore these interests further and provide opportunities for them to do so.

2. Provide multiple pathways for exploration

Ensure your teen has access to a variety of educational, extracurricular, and vocational opportunities to explore their interests and skills. This could include clubs, volunteering, or learning new skills outside of school.

3. Share your own experiences

Talk with your teen about your own journey of discovering your sense of purpose. Share the challenges and successes you've faced along the way. This can help them feel more relaxed about the process and start thinking about what they want for themselves.

4. Focus on the journey, not the destination

Emphasize that the goal is not to have their entire future mapped out by graduation. Instead, focus on helping them develop the self-awareness and flexibility to adapt to the ever-changing world around them.

5. Advocate for programs and policies that support purpose development

Support initiatives in your community that provide resources and opportunities for all youth to explore their interests and discover their unique talents and contributions.

Why Colleges Look for Students with a Sense of Purpose

In addition to the personal benefits, having a strong sense of purpose can also make your teen a more attractive candidate for college admissions. Colleges are increasingly looking for students who have a clear direction and passion, as this often translates to success both in and out of the classroom. Here's why:

1. Demonstrated commitment and persistence

Students with a sense of purpose are more likely to persist through challenges and remain committed to their goals, which are valuable traits in college and beyond.

2. Meaningful contributions to the college community

Colleges want students who will actively engage in and contribute to campus life. A sense of purpose often drives students to get involved in activities and initiatives that align with their values and goals.

3. Potential for future success

A strong sense of purpose is linked to better academic performance, career readiness, and overall life satisfaction. Colleges recognize that students with purpose are more likely to thrive during and after their college years.

The Lifelong Journey of Purpose

Remember, the journey to finding one's purpose is a lifelong process, and your role is to provide guidance and support along the way. Research indicates that individuals with a strong sense of purpose in adolescence are more likely to have better physical health, higher educational attainment, and greater life satisfaction in adulthood.

By helping your teen develop a strong foundation of self-awareness and adaptability, you are setting them up for success, not only in the college admissions process but in all aspects of their lives. With your support and encouragement, they can cultivate a sense of purpose that will guide them toward a fulfilling and meaningful future.