Core to our mission is helping our audience and community reach their full potential and the most important part of reaching your full potential is starting to find your purpose. Below, we’ve shared stories and insights from the community around how various folks found their purpose and we hope it helps you in your journey.
Brittany Ference
Ever since I was a little girl I have always been a magnet to horses. I had horses and competed in hunter jumper and dressage through high school. I grew up on a farm and peach orchard and I thrived in the rural lifestyle. When I went to college I moved to the city and had to sell my horse. I was completely uprooted from what I had known my whole life growing up in the country. I was drowning in concrete, unfamiliar with the culture of the city, depressed. Read more>>
Karen Kinney
Finding my purpose, or what I would call dharma, was very much a winding road with a lot of trail and error. I began my career in a misguided field (social work), largely as a continuation of unexamined patterns from childhood. So in essence, my first step towards finding my purpose was finding out what it wasn’t. Read more>>
Marlin Darrah
I came from a modest-of-means family in Eugene, Oregon – one that couldn’t really afford much in the way of travel, and certainly not to countries abroad. Sure, we had the family road trips now and then to the Pacific coast, to visit relatives in central Oregon, and up to Seattle. I loved it all. But I think our most exotic trip when I as young was a family car journey to Banff. Read more>>
Elaine Reiter
I grew up in Queens, NY and as a toddler my family noticed I had a connection with animals. I would seek them out, whether they be strays or family friends pets, and spend as much time as possible with them. My family would constantly try to redirect me, they believe culturally that animals are dirty. I was unstoppable, I had this innate connection. Read more>>
Jenn Campo
Before I founded The Simple Sort, I didn’t even know professional organizing services existed. I’d say my purpose found me, and not the other way around. I’ve always had a desire to be an entrepreneur, and I tried out many different avenues of business. Sometime around 2016 I was running a Home Staging business. Read more>>
Vicki Wright Hamilton
I found my purpose through a profound, life-changing experience. After complications during the birth of my first son, I had a near-death experience where I believed I saw Jesus. In this vision, I was at the gates of a heavenly place, surrounded by the most beautiful flowers. I remember pleading to be let in, but I was told, “No, not yet. Your work on Earth is not done. You need to go back and give an opportunity to those who are often overlooked. Take care of them, and I will take care of you.” Read more>>
Victoria Lowman
This question is my favorite because I have found my purpose multiple times. Purpose is a fluid thing in my mind but each purpose has pushed me to the next. With every discovery I have found a calling to expand the people I desire to serve. My first calling, or purpose, I discovered at 17 when I took a job at a local salon and discovered the beauty industry and immediately fell in love with the service and encouragement it had to offer. Read more>>
Ben Greener
Hello, my name is Ben Greener and I am the owner of GigRite LLC. We are a live and studio production company, we design and build studios, provide gear mod and repair services, and have a back-lined rehearsal/recording studio for hourly rental. I started my music career as a bass player, joining my first band at 12 and playing my first club at age 15. Read more>>
Nakeya Divine
I have always had the gift of being a good planner and organizer. I also love creating a beautiful and comfortable home. Even when I lived on base in the military, I decorated my temporary home as if it was going to be my forever. My co-workers and friends often complimented my home and asked for tips and suggestions on how to make theirs feel more “at home”. Read more>>
Angalina McClinton
Purpose was tough to discover. In his book, “In Pursuit of Purpose” and in several speeches, Dr. Myles Munroe can be quoted saying, “When purpose is not known, abuse is inevitable.” No truer words had ever been spoken. I was all over the place. From retail to banking, barbering to insurance, teaching to Ubering, I was everywhere and nowhere at the same time. I truly had no idea which direction I needed to be moving in nor what gifts and talents I possessed to help me get there. Read more>>
Kimmie Riley
Well, I’ve always been interested in interior design since I can remember but it was another career that actually made me feel like I might just have some talent. When working as a Realtor in Southern California, I often had to stage empty homes and I found that I enjoyed it so much! Now enjoying it was one thing but to hear people positively comment about the home decor while walking through my open houses blew me away. Oftentimes, buyer’s wanted to also purchase pieces of the design when purchasing the home-that’s when I began to feel that interior design was in my blood. Read more>>
Allen Martinez
My purpose emerged not in a single defining moment but as a culmination of diverse experiences that began at Art Center College of Design. Here, amidst the rigor of visual storytelling, I discovered not just my passion for narrative but a glimpse of the impact I wanted to make. The accolades I received, including recognition from the MOMA NYC, weren’t just milestones; they were early signs pointing towards a deeper calling in the realm of creativity. Read more>>
Syd Stewart
I found my purpose when I surrendered all of my desires, selfish ambitions and vain pursuits. It happened in 2012 when I had reached the end of my self-absorbed existence which also conveniently happened to coincide with the end of a contracted job and the last $100 in my bank account. I was terrified. Read more>>
Tanya Mahrous
Life has a way of changing in an instant when you least expect it. Of all the decisions we make every day, many which have no long-term impact, who knew that one simple decision on an unassuming day could change the course of my life forever. Read more>>
Joshua Duncan
My martial arts journey began back in 1984 with my stepfather as a way to build our relationship. It wasn’t an activity that I previously expressed interest in, but was more just a chance opportunity to share an activity through a local park program. I never thought this would be the springboard to take me to where I am in life nor have the impact that it has. Read more>>
Cleveland McLeish
I didn’t always know what my purpose was. In High School, I did poorly in most subjects, but always scored high in writing stories. In college, I was commended for essays I wrote on particular subjects and my approach to structure, characters and flow. Even then, I still had no inclination that my purpose was tied to writing. Read more>>
Kass Kremer
Growing up, I was always captivated by the intersection of adventure and innovation. My journey towards co-founding Sasquatch Expedition Campers began with a deep-seated passion for exploring the great outdoors, coupled with a curiosity for creating something unique. Read more>>
Jasmine Farmer
My purpose was born out of what I would have told my younger self when I started my college journey process. Over a ten year period I began a deep dive into self discovery through mentorship and using tools (disc, basic needs, human design, saboteurs, etc.). Through my self discovery and personal development I learned how to use those tools to find my strengths aka superpowers. Read more>>
ATLANTIA
We found our purpose as a group through our friendship! Finding friends in your 30s is hard, and we feel so fortunate to have found each other, so our content really is a celebration of our adult friendship and our shared childhood love of comedy, SNL, Harry Potter, theater, singing & performing, etc. We love making people laugh, but most of all, we love making each other laugh! Read more>>
Elon Kebede
Truly speaking, and I’m sure it sounds cliche. But I find my purpose through prayer. I also am a firm believer that one might find their purpose when they help others. Read more>>
Jasmine Barentine
Growing up, creativity was always around me and brought out through my grandmother and my mother. Everything was always handmade with love- from the food on the tables, customized plate settings to the actual attire we had on. I believe growing up, I didn’t realize I was a creative person because it was so innate, as well as a normalcy in my household. Read more>>
Lillian Davis
Honestly, I found my purpose through my pursuit of God. I know that sounds cliche, but, Faith has allowed me to believe in the unseen until it manifested. My belief shifts the way I view life, adversity and even disappointments! Read more>>
Louis B. Middleton
Through a lot of trial and error in my decision making, I found out my ultimate purpose is to show up for myself and others. For years I tried to fulfill this idea that if I was successful enough in music, had the nice home, or made enough money, my life would be full. For years, the word purpose wasn’t really relevant for me. I was an addict in active addiction. Read more>>
Thomas Weaver
The purpose runs deep for both Artist Styme & Kaloiam. Known as the hit making Duo (Smash Bruvas). Styme has been chasing this dream for over 10 years inspired by Artist such as Bow wow, Drake, & Future. Kaloiam has been in the game for over 5 years. He was inspired by his Brother Hue Fuego” to start putting his writing skills to the test. And hasn’t looked back since. Some of Kalo’s inspirations in the industry are, Big Sean, Lil Baby, Drake, Gunna, & Smash Bruvas! Read more>>
Joenesha Hardman
I want people to remember me for my love, for the light I’ve shared with others, and for being a safe place to those who need it. A lot of my educational and career goals have reflected this. As a Parenting Coach, “I believe that parenting is one of the most significant and transformative roles in society, shaping the future through the next generation. Read more>>
Adrian Rhodes
As an artist, I see my purpose as creating a space for us to sit together in our shared humanity. I see my role as one of meditative contemplation, observation and record. I’ve found this purpose through becoming what I needed when I was younger, and trying to say to others what I needed to hear myself. In my experience of grief, hearing , “things happen for a reason” was a balm that did not soothe. It was food without substance. Read more>>
Bill Reicherter
It all starts with a vision. A vision of where you see yourself in 5, 10, 15, 20 years down the road and when you think of those various time frames, how does it make you feel. Self fulfilled? Frustrated? Maybe mixed emotions. I personally found that putting a vision board together is a great exercise in creating a road map for your future. Read more>>
Mary Willcox Smith
I found my purpose by living through something, wishing I’d done it differently, and deciding to help others so they don’t do it the hard way, like I did. We come to parenting with our childhood baggage slung over one shoulder, clutching the tools we “learned” from our parents. Thanks to a somewhat unorthodox childhood, it seems I had a lot of baggage, and my parenting toolbox was rather empty. Read more>>
Jenn Gold
Due to scoliosis, I had my first spinal surgery at the age of 15 and I have had two more surgeries since then. I was always active; sports, step, mascot and even after that first surgery, I had two kiddos, started running 40 miles a week, and was in the best shape of my life until one day, my back just did not want to support me any longer. Two more surgeries and I now wrestle with long term pain. I’m grateful however without these surgeries, I would not be walking. I would not have had the life I have had. Read more>>
Paulnisha Michelle
Growing up I always had the desire of wanting more, doing more, and making a difference. Matching my personality with a career choice that needed to be somewhat decided by the time I graduated high school seemed impossible. This led to stress, anxiety, and fear that I wouldn’t be successful in life. So, I went on a journey of seeking who I am, what I like to do, and what makes me happy. Read more>>
Ram Tactix
The challenges and difficulties in life opened my heart and mind to the realities of life, that we are all connected Whether we like it or not. The pain that I endured made me think a lot about the true meaning of our existence. Read more>>
Celia Sanabria Aguilar
David and I knew we wanted to be business owners for a long time. We researched many different options and nothing felt like the right fit. In 2020, we were blessed with our son Leovanni. Ever since he was born, we found joy in decorating for any holiday or celebration. Read more>>
Cassandra Ferguson
I vividly recall the day when I earnestly sought God to reveal my purpose on Earth. The desire to understand my reason for existence consumed me, propelling me to persistently seek an answer. At times, I felt adrift, grappling with a sense of emptiness and questioning the very essence of my existence. Then came a morning, after my daughters had a sleepover, when an inexplicable urge nudged me to attend church. Read more>>
Dr. Nancy GAINES-DILLARD
Purpose found me. I realized it was always a part of who i was and that i needed to cultivate and nurture it, and in many cases, i still do till this day. As i matured in life, I showed up for myself and was intentionally, unapologetically me. The rest fell into place. Read more>>
Erin Hynes
Finding my purpose was a long journey, that began with figuring out what gives me joy in life. Over the years, I learned what activities, experiences, and tasks I felt passionate about, and I used that knowledge to guide me into finding my purpose. In my case, I leaned into my love of travel. Read more>>
Honeymoon Aljabri
As an African woman navigating life in the Western world, I have found my purpose in the imperative to share African stories from our unique viewpoint. Too often, the voices of African women are silenced or overshadowed by stereotypes that dictate we should be louder or conform to certain narratives. I firmly believe that if we don’t actively contribute to telling our own stories, we risk perpetuating misrepresentations that cast us as the ‘bad guys.’ Read more>>
Soledad Bautista
I grew up in Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico and as much as I love and adore my country and my city they have a very big macho problem. It has a very conservative, religious, patriarchal structure and that made it very challenging for me. I didn’t fit in. Reading, writing and art have saved my life many many times, and at the same time have challenged my mental health because I dreamed of wonderful “impossible things” and the world around me kept telling me “no”. Read more>>
Dena Gearhart
When it comes to purpose, I feel that you cannot find it if you don’t have passion. And for me, my passion has always been to help people feel good. When I was younger, I was always the first to show up and help when someone else was hurt. When both of my Grandmas were on their so to say “death beds” when I was 5years old, and in my 30s with my other, I sat on their beds, held their hands and was able to share positivity with them despite the situation. Read more>>
Milan Tiff
I found my purpose as a visual artist ( painter ) from having traveled the world as an Olympic athlete . Seeing things with my own eyes, as opposed to what I studied in school. There’s the saying, “ seeing is believing “ because when you see it, you don’t believe it. One example; Took a trip to Easter Island in the early 70’s, after having competed ( Track and Field ) in Santiago, Chile. As a perk , I asked if I could visit the Island. Easter Island is positioned in the Pacific Ocean, 5 hours by flight from any land mass. Read more>>
Leslie Hocker
There was a lack of education for notaries in Michigan. We began filling that need and decided to expand to reach and assist more notaries in Michigan. Read more>>
Christy Tyler-Cooper
I think it found me. I feel like everything that I have done in my personal life, education and career. Led me to my purpose. Read more>>
Erin Pierce Delane
I found my purpose in life at a very early age. I always had a passion for helping others which is what led me to open my business. Read more>>
Yelena York
I trusted myself and my intuition and still on that journey with happy and sad days combined. Read more>>
MAXA
To be honest I think Im still finding it. Read more>>
Jaylyn Palmer
As Chief of Staff at Xevant, a pharmacy benefit analytics tech company, I thrive on helping create a workplace that goes beyond the ordinary to achieve a culture of belonging, empowerment, and improvement. As a culture ambassador, strategic advisor, and relationship builder, I support the organization with versatility and innovation. When I’m not wearing one of my many hats at Xevant, you can find me planning a party, attending live music and theater, or playing Dungeons and Dragons! Read more>>
TMCXJ
Finding music and my tribe, Once I fully leaned into my full self all the puzzle pieces connected themselves. Read more>>
Derek Zimmerman
My purpose? I think I’m still working on that one, but its been fun drawing pictures in the meantime. Read more>>
Olga Prakapenkava
The path to finding my purpose was rather painful. I found my purpose through a lot of pain and transformation, and maybe it is just my perception of it, but transformation is always painful. I was in a very dark time in my life and experiencing a lot of pain, sorrow, and disappointment. At the beginning of this year, I was laid off from my job. The company culture turned out to be very toxic for me. Read more>>
