Finding Your Purpose

Since the beginning of this year, at least three notable television journalists have made the decision to move out from behind the anchor chair.

Lester Holt, 66, did so in order to devote more of his time to telling “long-form” stories like those he covers via his role on “Dateline.”

Norah O’Donnell, 51, did so in order to focus her efforts on big interviews and special reports for the various CBS News platforms, including “60 Minutes.”

Hoda Kotb, 60, did so in order to be able to spend more time with her family—and to launch her new wellness venture, “Joy101.com.”

One might argue that each of these award-winning journalists decided to make such a significant career transition while still at the top of their game.

Granted, they have the luxury to do so. They don’t have to worry about paying their bills. Affording healthcare. Putting food on their family’s tables. Or building their credibility.

Yet it still takes a bit of courage to move into a new role, especially if that role gives them the opportunity to pursue their professional passions in different, more meaningful ways.

Discovering our purpose—and then determining ways to pursue it—not only keeps us active and engaged, countless studies reveal it contributes to our longevity.

It gives us a reason to wake up in the morning. A roadmap for how we spend our time. Goals to achieve.

The Japanese call this concept, “Ikigai,” which translates to mean “a reason for being.”

And shouldn’t we ALL have that?

That said, figuring it out could be a heady proposition. So many of us move mindlessly from one task to another, trying to meet deadlines, care for loved ones, and take care of the business of our lives that we fail to devote any time to considering whether any of it is personally and/or professionally fulfilling.

But don’t we owe it to ourselves to spend time thinking about what really “floats OUR boats”? What fills us up? What brings us JOY?

One of the gifts of older age is the freedom—and the flexibility—to find our Ikigai. And then to pursue it.

With a few exceptions, we’re no longer in the thick of parenting (although many of us are very involved grandparents, to be sure). We’ve proven ourselves professionally. And we’re beginning to think about our “What’s Next.”

I’m not quite sure what mine will look like. But one thing I am certain about—I plan on having one helluva time figuring it out!

Image: Courtesy of the Government of Japan