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Hello Michael,

We interviewed the world's top thought leaders and asked them to share their insights into living and working on purpose. Their answers may surprise you.

While many studies show having a purpose can make you happier, healthier, and live longer, many of us don’t truly relate to the word.

In our upcoming online workshop, Living and Working on Purpose, we explore many common myths around finding Purpose, and our faculty delivers insights on how we can dispel these myths to cultivate, nurture, and integrate Purpose into our daily lives to spark greater happiness and well-being.

1. Purpose is something you find.

The notion of finding your purpose often implies an external quest, but Chip Conley, founder of MEA, encourages us to view purpose as a dynamic process. Rather than a tangible item to locate, he suggests that we consider purpose as a verb — a state of being that demands action, energy, and intention. Embracing purposefulness in our daily lives leads to greater happiness and well-being.

2. Finding purpose must be monumental.

Purpose anxiety often stems from comparing ourselves to towering figures. Richard Leider advises that we begin by nurturing our Little P purpose by finding significance in small daily actions that inspire personal growth and contribute to others. Over time, our Big P purpose will naturally emerge, tailoring to fit our unique journey.

3. Finding purpose is the same for everyone.

Assuming that everyone should share the same purpose or that purpose remains unchanging over time is erroneous. Blake Mycoskie, founder of TOMS Shoes, underscores the intensely personal nature of purpose. Only you can truly discern if you are living your purpose, as it evolves in tandem with your personal growth.

4. Purpose is easy to access.

Our extensive experience teaching a course on cultivating purpose has unveiled a curious pattern: many believe they know their purpose, yet seldom contemplate it amid their daily routines. True understanding necessitates introspection and presence, as world-class poet Mark Nepo reminds us. Sometimes, profound moments — a breathtaking sunset, a moving poem, or an act of kindness — reconnect us with what truly matters.

5. Purpose resides outside of you.

While external factors can influence our sense of purpose, an inner journey often becomes more prominent in midlife and beyond. John Donohoe, CEO of Nike, discovered that this inner exploration had a more profound impact on his well-being than external achievements. It led him to interview older individuals to better grasp the significance of inner meaning and purpose.

MEA's online Living and Working on Purpose workshop is an 8-week guided experience starting September 29 that offers learning, growth, and connection with insightful tools to help shift your perspective, understand what purpose truly means, and create goals to transform your life. What are you waiting for?

Save 20% and catch the early bird price ending soon!

Yes, I'll be there

If you seek a more immersive experience in person, consider joining in Baja where you can dive into the depths of purpose and enjoy the tranquility of our beachfront campus. There is more information below about this Workshop.

Warmly,

The MEA Team

More From Our Purpose Course Myth Busters

MEA Purpose Course Alumna

"This journey has truly broadened my perspective, deepening my connection with others and enriching my understanding of the world around me." Keanna O'Quinn, MEA Alumna | Los Angeles, USA

Dive Deeper in Baja

Realign, reconnect, and rejuvenate your life at our oceanside campus in Baja, Mexico! Financial aid is available. We’ll save a seat on the sand for you.

Explore Baja Workshops

Mastery Week: Power of Purpose

Nov 6 — Nov 11, 2023

What makes you want to get out of bed in the morning? Join purpose pioneer Richard Leider and MEA co-founder and Chief Education Officer Jeff Hamaoui for a Purpose Checkup. Learn More

Are you curious?

Our Admissions Guides are ready to help you find which programs are right for you.

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