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The Power of Purpose: Charting the Path to Longevity
Getty Images on Unsplash

January 2024 – George Lee, Editor

Theme: Purpose

The Power of Purpose:
Charting the Path to Longevity

Ever wondered how having a sense of purpose might impact how long we live and how healthy we stay? This month, we’re launching our Purpose theme, exploring the world of Purpose and its relationship with how long and well we live. 

A notebook which has the word purpose written on it

Photography by Sunnie on Unsplash

Studies have unveiled a fascinating connection between purpose in life and our overall well-being. Did you know that having a strong sense of purpose appears to lower the risk of mortality? 

Researchers suggest that having a clear sense of purpose might shield us from stress and help us focus on the bigger picture rather than getting bogged down by everyday issues. But how exactly does purpose impact our health beyond just making us feel good? Could it influence everything from our relationships to how well we sleep? And why do women seem to benefit more from this? And why do we often experience a decline in our sense of purpose as we get older? 

We will ask what role does purpose play in caregiving? Should caregivers encourage their loved ones to find meaning and purpose, and if so, how might this positively affect their lives? 

We will also be exploring the concept of Ikigai, the Japanese term that translates to ‘a reason for being’ or ‘a reason to wake up in the morning,’ and see how this sheds light on the profound effect a sense of purpose can have on our overall well-being. 

The ultimate purpose of human existence, which is to say, your purpose, is to bring that power into this world,” Eckhart Tolle.

As we embark on this curious exploration, we will dive into research studies as well as engage with our Voice® community worldwide. We’ll be chatting with individuals across different ages and cultures, listening to their stories about what purpose means to them and how their experiences could drive innovations aimed at helping us all live longer, better lives.  

So, get ready to peel back the layers, let’s get curious and discover a little more about what truly drives you.  

 

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