Why you need a ‘why’ (and how to find yours)

Ever felt like you’re just going through the motions – hitting the gym, ticking off work tasks, and binge-watching the latest must-see TV? You’re not alone; you’re in a routine.

Perhaps you've lost the sense of something deeper driving you, something that made every rep, every meeting, and every moment feel more meaningful? That’s where your ‘why’ comes in.

But if you’re not sure what yours is, how do you find it? Let’s explore how to uncover yours.

What is ‘a why’? 

Your ‘why’ is your deeper reason for being – the personal meaning behind your life. It’s not about surface-level goals like “getting fit” or “earning more money.” Instead, it’s about understanding what truly drives you on a soul-deep level.

When you know your ‘why’, you can tackle challenges with greater strength and determination. As Philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche famously said, “He who has a why to live can bear almost any how”.

Why is a ‘why’ important?  

Motivation: Your ‘why’ gives you the fuel to keep going – whether it’s powering through a rigorous Grid Training class or staying committed to long-term goals, such as buying a home or travelling overseas. It helps you stay focused on what truly matters to you. 

Resilience: Life loves throwing us curveballs – like when we don’t get that job we wanted, or miss the bus, or when our Personal Trainer says, “burpees!.” A strong sense of purpose helps you bounce back when things get tough. It’s the difference between feeling defeated and finding the strength to keep moving forward.  

Well-being: Having a clear purpose improves mental health and overall happiness. It’s the ultimate antidote to feeling stuck or aimless – helping you find direction and meaning in life.

Finding your ‘why’ 

So, how do you uncover your ‘cheat code’ to life? Start by asking yourself these questions: 

• What was the last thing you did that made you come alive?
• What is your motivation in life?
• What does success look like to you?
• What values or achievements matter most to you? 
• How do you contribute to others or the world around you? 
• What are your strengths?
• What keeps you going when things get tough?

We know these are heavy questions. Spend time to reflect on these questions, It’s about taking a step back and understanding what drives you on a deeper level – what makes you tick.

Beyond finding a ‘why’ in life, self-discovery can be beneficial to your overall health and well-being. Check out our blog on The Virtues of Self-Reflection to discover more.

Five tips for keeping your ‘why’ 

1. Be kind to yourself: Don’t stress if your ‘why’ doesn’t come to you instantly – it’s a journey, not a sprint. Give yourself time to explore and discover what truly matters. 

2. Connect with your career: Aligning your work with your purpose can be transformative, helping you find meaning in your daily tasks and responsibilities. 

3. Help others: Often, our deepest sense of motivation comes from making a positive impact on others, whether it’s through volunteering, mentoring, or simply being there for friends and family. 

4. Recalibrate regularly: Your ‘why’ might evolve. Do a bit more self-discovery and adjust as needed. Life is full of twists and turns, and your purpose can shift accordingly. Embrace flexibility and be open to new experiences and perspectives. 

5. Seek out new perspectives: Talk to people outside your usual circle – they can offer insights that spark new ideas and help you refine your self-discovery.

Remember, finding your ‘why’ isn’t about perfection, it’s about progress – and being open to growth and change.

Final words 

Your ‘why’ is the secret sauce that makes everything – from gym sessions to life goals – more meaningful. Take some time to explore what drives you and let it fuel your journey toward wellness and fulfilment.

And speaking of wellness, don’t forget that rest is just as important as hustle! Check out our rest and recovery programs designed to help holistically recharge both body and mind.