Over the years we’ve had the good fortunate of speaking with thousands of successful entrepreneurs, artists and creatives. Some are happy, some are not. The happy ones almost always had a strong sense of purpose and so we are very focused on trying to help our community members and audience find their purpose. This series is our attempt to create more dialogue around finding your purpose.
Demetria Gartrell
Inspired by my husband’s journey with vitiligo, I decided to utter the words “Find Your Fly®,” which extended compassion and courage when he struggled to view himself positively. In 2018, my husband’s vitiligo worsened, causing changes in his skin color and leading to feelings of isolation, low self-esteem, and stigmatization. However, he persevered through this challenging journey and found support and love through the lifestyle brand, Find Your Fly®. Read more>>
Omar Dominguez
My purpose comes from my desire to be a successful person, I’ve always wanted to be that, since I was a kid I always admired people with those stories, people that overcame difficulties and grew up setting an example of resciliance, and defeated obstacles; besides that feeling that I always had, I have a daughter with Down Syndrome that fights and sets examples of strenght everyday so I have learned from her so much that I can not be as strong and rescilient as her. I have 6 kids total and I want them to learn from me that we never give up. Read more>>
Debbie Todd
I stumbled upon my purpose by accident. Something was missing in what we were trying to create at ‘The Woodlands at Hocking Hills.’ But through self-reflection and trusting my instincts, I discovered a sense of purpose by asking myself fundamental questions: Why are we doing this? What are my gifts and passions? Which events and people have left a lasting impact on me? What have I learned from my life experiences? What truly motivates me? Read more>>
Michelle Rose
As the great Maya Angelou once said, “My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style.” Read more>>
Nani Nicole
I grew up in a Christian household and knew about God but I didn’t have a relationship with him. At the age of 14, I completely drifted as far away as I could have from God and what I knew to believe of Him. I didn’t want anything to do with God. Later that year I got pregnant. At the age of 15 I became so depressed after having my daughter because of personal issues that I tried committing suicide by taking a full bottle of pills. Read more>>
Zack Jurasek
Purpose is not something simply stumbled upon. It is sought after by the old, young, rich and poor. I was lucky enough to find mine at an early age when I was nothing more than a child wondering around at night with simple instruments as a lantern, a gig and a sense of wonderment. This was not realized until later in life after i had spent 14 years in the engineering field, 5 years as a commercial pilot and another 5 as a commercial beekeeper. Read more>>
Lai Goddess
I found my purpose when I started to tuned inward taking the time to learn about myself, as well as paying attention to how I felt when I did the things I enjoyed. I grew up doing a plethora of activities like dancing, writing, acting, drawing etc. I really enjoyed these things but by time I became an adult and started pondering what it is I wanted to be and do, outside from my creative pursuits, is when I came face to face with my purpose. Read more>>
Nikki L May
How I found my purpose? The day I decided to decorate for an event & baked a batch of cupcakes for the guests! Everyone’s face light up with a beautiful smile once they saw how detailed everything was nicely decorated & the cupcakes were some of the best they’ve ever had! Is what I was told! Read more>>
Ruth Anne Hollingsworth
For me, finding my purpose has been a journey. I grew up in a nondenominational church where I was told my purpose was to love all people and to be a light for Jesus. That was awesome, but it didn’t necessarily point to a specific career. So when I was in high school I thought a lot about what activities brought me the most joy in life. I loved working with people (especially kids) and I loved dancing. Read more>>
Mz. JewCee
wouldn’t say, “I found my purpose.” I would say that my purpose found me. When I was in 7th grade, my homeroom teacher was the gym teacher and the sexual education teacher. Mr. Fellers was down to earth and had a way of speaking with young teenagers in a way that was more ‘equal/adult’ than I realized at the time. He had a passion for making sure we understood sex. That was the beginning for me, although I wouldn’t realize it until sometime later in life. Read more>>
Aja Nikiya Estro
If there is one thing I have been sure of my entire life, it has been my purpose. Since I was a young child I have always had a love and appreciation for nature and animals. From there my love grew to disadvantaged, marginalized communities. Suffering has always affected me immensely and I will do what I can to put an end to it. No being should suffer, especially at the hands of humans. I know my purpose is to bring as much compassion as I can into the world and end the suffering of as many beings as possible. Read more>>
Brian Laubenthal
I found my purpose at a young age. I just didn’t realize it until I was much older. Throughout my life, I’ve been given the compliment that I listen. At first, I didn’t know it was a compliment, but over time I realized others would push their own agendas rather than understanding the needs asked for. In 7th grade I was asked to write a paper on what I would be when I grew up and how it would help the world. Read more>>
Dawn Vaflor
As a college graduate from Ohio State University with a Zoology degree in 1991, I was developing my purpose in my career field, and that would be to help educate the public on Animal Conservation, but ended up in research instead. While this was fulfilling at the time, it wasn’t like I was incredibly passionate about it, except that I was helping scientists develop medications to help people with illnesse and disease management- all very worthwhile and noteworthy work. Read more>>
Tamika Marshall
My original reason for starting my Nonprofit was due to me being diagnosed with Uterine Cancer in 2015. When God spared my life from the treacherous disease without having to have Chemo or Radiation, I wanted to find a way to show my gratitude for him doing so. That’s the WHY and HOW Lady T Hope Brigade was created. Read more>>
Stephanie Anderton
After years of struggling with substance misuse, I started my journey of recovery at the age of 28. I struggled with finding support from individuals that were understanding of my history and provided encouragement. I wanted to be able to be the person that I had needed in my recovery for someone else. Read more>>
Robyn Baker
When they asked me to fill out a questionnaire, I soon realized I have an experience with every single item listed. Like the insurance commercial, “We know a thing or two, because we’ve seen a thing or two.” Read more>>
Aisha Raison
I’ve had a camera in my hand since I was 3 years old. My father introduced it in my life during the Christmas of 1975, telling me that through that lens was how the world was truly seen. I have used that concept in my work, whether it be through films, photography, or in my news reals. Read more>>
David DeLeon
My purpose was ignited by a fascination with technology and a deep-seated belief in its transformative power. From a young age, I was captivated by computers and the digital realm. It was like a vast frontier, just waiting to be explored and understood. Read more>>
Casey Lepper
My purpose continues to refine the further I develop within my self. I was drawn to understanding the human mind and behavior from an early age. Constantly curious I asked internal questions about others, wondering why people did the things they did. In college I majored in psychology and continued with formal education with a Master’s in professional counseling and marriage and family therapy. Read more>>
Ashley Schmick
Key moments of my life had to happen for me to be on the path to finding my life purpose. I got married in 2014, started a wedding planning business in 2015, had my son in 2016, overcame severe PPD/PPA, chose to not drink alcohol in 2019, and my mom died in 2021, on top of filing for divorce in 2022. Every single part of those life events was such a pivotal moment for me to grow into who I am today. Read more>>
Queen Angela Thomas(Smith)
In a remarkable tale of resilience and determination, Queen Angela Thomas has risen above the challenges of domestic violence and suicide attempts to become a force to be reckoned with in the literary world. As the founder and CEO of Aspiring Authors Magazine, her mission is to empower aspiring authors and guide them towards achieving their dreams. But that’s not all – Angela’s impact extends far beyond the pages of a magazine. Read more>>
Nicholas White
I found my purpose when I was in elementary school. I decided to take drama class because I always found myself entertaining others with my jokes. After that I signup for my school talent shows and did a dance with my French classmates and the waltz with my drama class. Read more>>
Christa Santos
I found my purpose from being exposed to many challenges throughout my life. I came to college at the University of Central Florida (UCF) and it opened up so many opportunities for me. The biggest was being part of my sorority which gave me lifelong friends and confidence to do anything. Read more>>
Megan Selke
I can’t honestly say that I had some major “aha” moment or lightbulb go off. I don’t know exactly if I am fulfilling my purpose on this earth, but I am doing a job that I love. When others are going “ugh, tomorrow’s Monday, I don’t wanna go to work!” I’m going “Tomorrow’s Monday! I can’t wait to work!” And if that’s as close to my purpose I get, well, that works for me! Read more>>
Anisa Turner
To be completely honest I never knew my purpose. I just knew I like helping people. I knew I had a big heart. I knew how to love. Everything I did always involved helping people. From daycare, to my nursing back round, my customer care specialist career and now my role in the music industry. Everything has been centered around helping others. That’s how I found my purpose. I believe God put me here to help and help people. Read more>>
Desirae Benson
As an entertainment publicist and multimedia journalist, my journey to finding my purpose was a combination of passion, self-discovery, and continuous growth. I’ve always had a deep love for music, art, written communication and storytelling. Through my work in the industry, I realized that my true purpose lies in connecting artists, actors, athletes entrepreneurs, and a variety of companies with their audience and sharing their amazing stories with the world. Read more>>
Mikayla Prioleau
In your 20’s specifically, it can be difficult to find your purpose. Your in a transition phase of either entering school or departing school and having to shake hands with the real world. You’ve lost friendships, relationships, old stuff doesn’t hit the same, so you start exploring to see what else is out there for you. I found my purpose by trusting God, who I know is not done with me yet. Read more>>
Dwanna Roberts
I would love to feel as though I found my purpose but, honestly my purpose found me. Doing for others has always given me the feeling of fulfillment. Quickly, I learned that food brought people happiness and I wanted to be a part of that. My desire to cook came soon after, and having a loving family willing to teach me was a blessing. Read more>>
Kiauna Hughes
I found my purpose when I figured my life was more than just about me. I found my purpose in my popcorn business. I have the pleasure of offering a great product and service to people. And also because I want to create generational wealth for my children. Read more>>
Kat Jones
I was 13 years old when I came to the conclusion that I wanted to be a professional dancer. I remember the moment so vividly. It’s late at night in Long Island, New York and I’m sitting in my room, on the edge of my bed, considering the things I was good at. At the time I really enjoyed doing hair, writing plays, science and of course – dance. Read more>>
Ana Najera
This is an easy one, overall my life purpose are my boys and staying truth to myself . I do have different ones that evolve over time. Read more>>
Maryam Faison
You know that old saying “It’s the thought that counts?!” its the effort and time you put into that thought ,much like purpose it need substance to grow. It was hard finding my purpose at first because I was determined to be like everyone else, it did more harm than good. But as soon as it manifested itself I was overjoyed with inspiration and self discovery. Read more>>
Nathan Nowak
The purpose of our small business ended up finding us. We started because we wanted to create live edge tables out of some local trees that we came across. Little did we know that would turn into a business for us. As time went on and we invested in better equipment and the Kansas City area began to learn about how we could repurpose their trees into useable lumber, our business grew into what it is today. Read more>>
Maureen Bush
I am a helpful person, I heard on a podcast once, “…helping others is the feeling of being human.” and it has never left me. For me, there is no greater joy than providing assistance to someone who needs it and receiving a genuine thank you. NEATJax doesn’t only help beautify pantries and rehang clothing, we create spaces for people to exist in. Our clients reach out to us because they are stuck and we are able to work with them through their mental and physical barriers, to find solutions they can maintain. Read more>>
Hunter Page
I have always been passionate about whatever it is I am involved in. I become consumed, it is all I want to do and most other hobbies fall to the way-side. Because of this, I think I create the purpose out of necessity. The need to constantly work on something, to fill my time with and to understand that topic intimately. Read more>>
Octavian Mazyck
Meditation , inner work, and paying attention to how my body responded to certain things. I recall back in late 2018, 2019 I started becoming infatuated with meditation and learning about chakras and their specific functions within the body. Read more>>
Tina Lunalover
Finding your groove in life can be a wild ride. For me, it all kicked off in 2014 when I dove deep into what my cats were actually eating. Once I switched them to raw food, the change in their health was mind-blowing. This lit a fire in me, and I knew I had to spread the word about the raw food magic for pets. Read more>>
Charles Fossett-Lee
That’s a thought. I grew up with a passion for helping people. That was all I wanted to do. Initially, I wanted to be a counselor when I thought about attending college. That would be the best way to help someone. But then, as I got older, the passion for writing came into play; I would spend hours and hours writing short stories that my friends would read. Read more>>
Emily Heumann
As a creative who gets to work entirely in the arts, I consider myself very fortunate. It’s not the easiest path I could have chosen, but I have always found that by following what calls me, my daily work feels fulfilling and is enjoyable. I have been in love with the arts for as long as I can remember. I’ve always been drawn to music, theatre, and visual art. To me, art is an essential part of life; it helps me to fully experience and understand the world around me. Read more>>
Meghan Smith
I found my purpose, by digging deep inside myself after realizing that there was something in me that I had to offer that is of benefit to the collective. It took such personal development and inner strength to uncover the depth of it. Now that I found my dharma there is no going back. Read more>>
Jennifer Brogee
When I was a kid I loved the idea of solving problems. My favorite books were Nancy Drew mysteries. My dad would bring home a yellow spine hard cover book every once in a while from the hardware store. I would try to make the books last as long as possible by only reading one chapter a night. I decided that I wanted to be Nancy Drew and so I invented my own detective agency. Read more>>
Mixology 101
Finding my purpose was never an easy task, but definitely the most important one for me, it all started when my older sister asked me? What do I want? In a genuine way, I was seventeen getting ready to apply to colleges and wondering where should I go. I’ve always been told what to do at that point in my life. All I knew is that I loved talking to people and I was really good and being hospitable. Read more>>
Josh Springer
I love this question, since I sometimes wonder if I’m still on the road towards my purpose or if I’ve arrived. On that same note, if I’ve finally arrived, has some of the purpose of my journey been dulled? Either way, I do know that making people happy is a purpose I do try to achieve every time I’m asked to pick up my camera. There is a challenge that comes with it every time; new people, new venue, new lighting, new timeline, etc. So I guess in that sense, finding my purpose might just be in challenging myself daily. Read more>>
Bao Su
Finding purpose for me is a deep personal journey. It often involves introspection, exploring my passions, values, and interests. Reflecting on what brings me joy, fulfillment, and a sense of meaning in life. Additionally, consider how my unique strengths and skills can contribute positively to the world around me. Read more>>
Christel Ferguson
I found my purpose in stages. I think we often want to be something when we grow up, and as we get older, we have this voice telling us that if we don’t become that, we have failed. I think it’s so important to normalize changing our minds or discovering a path we didn’t know existed. Read more>>
Miku Sakamoto
My fascination with the beauty industry started during the pandemic, a time when people found themselves confined with limited opportunities. Surprisingly, even amidst uncertainty and economic hardships, beauty treatments remained in high demand. Initially, this struck me as counterintuitive since, in difficult times, I assumed that non-essential services like beauty treatments would be the first to go. Read more>>
