The Library
Field noteStarting overGriefMental health1 minute read
Finding purpose again
When life feels meaningless after loss or change.
After a loss, a breakup, illness, retirement or a crisis, many people say the same thing: I do not know what the point is anymore.
Purpose often comes back slowly
You do not need to find a grand mission. Purpose often grows from small things done regularly.
Places people find it
- Helping someone else: volunteering, mentoring, checking on a neighbour
- Making something: woodwork, cooking, music, writing
- Caring for something: a garden, an animal, a project
- Learning a new skill
- Carrying on the values of someone you lost
Try, then notice
Try something for a few weeks and notice how you feel during and after. Keep what gives you energy.
When nothing feels meaningful
If everything has felt pointless for weeks, it may be depression. Talk to a doctor. If you feel you cannot go on, use the crisis lines for your country.
