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.
Breanna Michelle
Ever since I was a little girl, my mom wore long red nails. For as long as I can remember I’ve always gone with Her to this place that had a peculiar smell in the air, But I could only smell this scent when I went with her. It was the nail shop, and I loved it! I’d often pick up the scraps on the floor to size them to my small fingers, imagining how I’d look with them on, and what color -other than cotton candy, would suit me best. Read more>>
Elizabeth Incrocci
From a young age, I felt a natural pull towards capturing life’s moments through photography. It was a way to tell stories, to immortalize emotions, and to give others the gift of memories preserved. Alongside this passion, I’ve always aspired to be my own boss, driven by a go-getter spirit and a strong work ethic that shaped my journey toward entrepreneurship. Read more>>
Nancy Sheehan
Now, that’s a question. My initial thought in approaching that is I always had my purpose; I just never knew it was always with me.
Before discovering my calling in entertainment, I had always had a plan for myself. Was it ever the right one? I cannot say that for certain.
Growing up, I wanted to be a lot of things. A teacher, veterinarian, meteorologist, baker, even Tinkerbell at one point. But the dream that stuck around the longest for me was studying marine biology. Read more>>
Dani Reardon
Finding purpose is such an interesting thought, and I think it’s a question that puts a lot of pressure on our society in general. So many of us ask, “what is my purpose?” We think if we don’t have a specific and grandiose purpose that we are somehow not successful or doing life wrong. So much goes into finding purpose, and I think it’s an evolving subject through our life, that changes with each of our chapters. When we think about it, we have so many purposes. We have so many roles that we play in daily life, and all of them are purposeful. Just because we are human and living life, that alone is purpose enough as we are evolving our consciousness which helps the collective and helps the universe evolve, even when we think we are insignificant in the grand scheme of things, its important to know we are not. Read more>>
Rachael Galperin
I found my purpose through a combination of personal experiences and the realization of a gap in the creative world. It all started when I was eleven, feeling a deep need for something different in art and entertainment that I just couldn’t find. I was looking for stories that reflected a wider range of experiences and voices, not just what mainstream media was offering. That feeling never left me, and as I grew up, it evolved into a clear vision. Read more>>
Sam Counterpunch
Just wanted to say thanks for everyone taking the time to read this interview. Inshallah👊🏾🥊♥️ .. I went through some trails and tribulations.. and I reached a point where the only person that could help me was “God” I hit depression, from loosing parents, personal issues, just life in general I’ve always been head strong and tough .. Read more>>
Louise Finlay
Before launching Deco x Mia, the go-to online, Miami-inspired gift and home decor store, I worked in marketing for 20 years with B2B, tech and consumer brands across industries including Retail, Travel & Hospitality, Energy, Fintech, Telecommunications, and IoT. In the Summer of 2023 I was suddenly let go from my corporate job which had a huge effect on my mental health. But as they say, every cloud has a silver lining, and the time out that I took that summer to regroup and rethink my next steps is what led to me finding my purpose and creating Deco x Mia. Read more>>
M. Todd Burton
I find my purpose through the effect I have on those around me. I don’t know that I exactly “found my purpose” as much as it found me. I have always been self driven and passionate about everything I do. But I have learned over the years that when the I becomes a we, so much more gets done and the impact people can have on each others lives is truly profound. The Charlotte Fashion Collective was initially created in an effort to organize the fashion community in a way that we can collaborate and work together in as creative a way possible. Read more>>
Laura Currens
In 2020 I was burnt out working in a traditional outpatient physical therapy practice. I had a 2 babies and was doing the working mom thing, had started a pelvic floor physical therapy program at work, and was busy. I loved the switch to pelvic health which I had started a few years prior and loved getting the program going at my office. But it was not rewarding rushing through really complex cases in the allocated time we had, and I left every visit frustrated, late, and bummed I couldn’t do more for the patient. Every year I got the same feedback on my annual reviews “Laura your cancellation rate is the lowest in the company and patients really like you, but you are always running late and that has to change”. Read more>>
Albina Tralenko
I worked as an accountant for a long time. I didn’t enjoy this job. I was successful in my business, but I was not satisfied. One day, my thoughts returned to my childhood. I kind of talked to myself. I remembered what I liked, which gave me a lot of positive emotions. And that day I radically changed myself, my line of work, changed the vector of movement. I became interested in aero design and did well in my work. Read more>>
Erika Michelle Coleman
My journey from the hood to Hollywood,Growing up I’ve always knew i wanted to entertain people because I’ve always been funny and creative. And watching TV and not seeing girls like me from the hood and in a single parent home .I just always felt the need to want better and to open doors for others if I could just get a big break and become a star on tv lol . Some would say wishful thinking and that I would never make it being black ,plus size and from the hood . But I never could shake the feeling of wanting to inspire people all over the world but i just couldn’t figure out how i would do it . I was once told if your dreams don’t scare you than it ain’t big enough. Read more>>
Jay Janicki
The timing of this question is wild to me, especially after attending Jamie Tworkowski’s “What is my purpose? Or is that a bunch of bull shit?” discussion last Friday and it was magic. If you don’t know who Jamie Tworkowski is: please look him up, he does incredible work for the mental health community. As fate would have it, there was a crisis situation that happened on the call and there were four of us total. Jamie and I were privately chatting, me being worried about someone in the group and not wanting to “take over”, where he essentially passed me the baton and asked me to step in. We were able to get this person the helped they needed and while it required a lot of hard questions and redirection, it was extremely moving. Read more>>
Barbara Latta
Growing up in church I heard a lot about finding God’s will for my life. But the focus always seemed to be on finding a career path. I struggled with knowing what God wanted me to do. I went to college and majored in Elementary Education but I didn’t have the desire to continue along that road. Read more>>
Tierra Graves
Finding my purpose came after many years of pain. Through my pain, I discovered my purpose. My purpose is not the amount of education I have received from the universities, but the amount of time and effort I put into learning of God’s word and the plans God has for my life. The pain I endured over the years in the areas of grief and depression has pushed me into my purpose. I learned to educate myself about the issues I was facing daily. I also turned to writing as an outlet to express myself in ways I couldn’t always speak. My passion soon become my purpose as I became an educator and a 7-time published author. Read more>>
Terri-ann Russell
Pain and loss were a powerful catalyst for finding my purpose. In July 2019, I was the happiest I had ever been, I was remarried and living in Sedona working as an energy healer, when suddenly my middle son, Anthony passed from a medical complication. My life was turned upside down and I would undergo a powerful death and rebirth of my own. Read more>>
Suzanne Boothby
I always loved reading and going to the library to pick out new books when I was a child. In fact, I took a class at the local library when I was 9 years old, and we wrote and published our own books. I wrote about my cat and his adventures around the world. While I didn’t know it then, I would go on to write books as a career. Read more>>
Sara Schesser Bartra
I see finding my purpose as a continuous journey rather than a fixed destination. It evolves as I navigate the world around me. What matters most to me is the desire to be the best version of myself in everything I do. In terms of my art, I aspire to be a living artist who not only expresses creativity but also fosters curiosity and shares knowledge with others. This dynamic process keeps my purpose vibrant and meaningful. Read more>>
Kelsey Nicole Nelson
“Use your platform for a purpose, fueled by your passions.” I am thankful to know my purpose while I am blessed with time here on Earth. It takes some people a lifetime to search for true meaningful purpose. This is what fuels me, what drives me and helps guide me as a multifaceted dynamic woman who can’t be placed in a box. This is also the foundation for the KNN Foundation that I will be launching next year, with a mission to dedicated to providing educational freedom, financial empowerment, and investing in communities through platform, purpose and passion. Read more>>
Latrice Bennett
I believe that finding your purpose requires growth in your experiences, is developed as well as can change with your Journey. My purpose I believe involved multiple experiences that has shaped and molded me into the young women I am today. When I was younger I had to overcome many challenges such as, sexual abuse, low self worth and longing for validation, because of not knowing who I was. As I grew older those same challenges would follow me into my adult life, until one day I told my story. Read more>>
Castanita Fitzpatrick
Finding my purpose has been a journey shaped by personal experiences, faith, and a desire to make a difference. For many years, I faced personal hardships, and overcoming them helped me recognize the importance of using my experiences to support others. My purpose became clearer as I connected with others facing similar struggles and saw how I could help them navigate difficult paths. Read more>>
Momolu (momo) Sherif
I always felt that I was put on this Earth to do something special. When I was a kid my teachers always told my parents that I would go places and that I would impact people on a large scale. In 2018 I had to have multiple brain surgeries to a brain aneurism. The doctors call my aneurism the “widow maker” I am not married but you get it. I made it through that pretty much unscathed. I am able to move forward, I am able to create my our destiny and walk on my journey still. Understanding that blessing, I know that I am here to make an impact. Read more>>
Lisa Boulware
HI! I’m Lisa the Owner and Aesthetican at Sorelle Beauty Suites! Just a little bit about how I got started in this industry. I was diagnosed with Melanoma at 21 years old after my mom discovered a dark mole on my back. I ended up going through laser treatments and the doctor was able to remove all borders before passing through my bloodstream. I knew I needed to start taking better care of my skin and my body, so I decided to attend Esthetic school. My sister Angela recommended it and I LOVED IT! I graduated in 2004 with the highest honors and received a 99% on my state boards. Shortly after I got a job working at a med spa and continued for many years. Read more>>
Diamond Bell
Overcoming divorce was a transformative journey for me, deeply rooted in my faith and personal growth. I sought guidance from both God and a therapist, which provided me with the support I needed during such a challenging time. My faith played a crucial role in helping me find hope and purpose. Prayer and reflection allowed me to connect with a greater sense of peace, reminding me that I am never alone in my struggles. Read more>>
Caroline Parrish
When I was a little girl, my answer to the question “what do you want to be when you grow up” ranged pilot to president, teacher to surgeon. As I got older, I realized that the commonality was that they all help people. Pilots help travelers get where they are going, presidents help their country…and the teachers and surgeons in my life helped me on a deeply personal level. So that became my answer to the question, and it remains my answer to this day: “When I grow up, I want to help people.” Read more>>
Durell Robinson
As a pastor called to minister to those who have felt the weight of isolation and limitations, I understand the transformative power of pain and the profound lessons it can impart. Just as the Apostle Paul embraced his calling to the outcast minority, I too have found my purpose through the crucible of challenges that have marked my journey. In the depths of despair and loneliness, I discovered that pain has a unique ability to strip away the veneer of pride and unveil the truths that pride often obscures. It is through our struggles and our wounds that we are often best equipped to minister to others who are walking a similar path of hardship and hardship. Read more>>
Latoya Skinner
For years, I thrived in a corporate job that brought me purpose and fulfillment every day. I loved that my role allowed me to help others, making me feel like part of something meaningful. The compensation was good, too, which only added to my sense of stability. But as time went on and the promotions kept coming, something began to shift within me. I started feeling unsettled—a small, quiet whisper I chose to ignore repeatedly. I’d heard that life tries to communicate with us, showing us signs if we pay attention. Eventually, the whispers grew louder until I could no longer ignore them. And then, the biggest whisper of all arrived: my role was eliminated after nine years with the company. While I didn’t know how to feel initially, I knew there was a reason for this, and I saw it as a chance to begin a new chapter. Read more>>
Payal Beri, Phd
The purpose is something that nudges at us, and our life experiences continue to strengthen that purpose until we’re staring it in our face. As a 3rd culture kid, I grew up moving around to over 18 places, Egypt, Dubai, Iraq, Australia, and the U.S. (New York, Florida, California) among many other places. This experience provided me with an opportunity to learn different cultures, and values and engage with people from all over the world, at a very young age. It gave me a sense of pride and gratitude for learning how as humans we share so much in common- family, our basic emotional responses of love, kindness, fear, and sadness. Read more>>
Raei Bridges
In Dagara cosmology every person’s purpose is determined in the ancestral realm before we come to this Earth. It is a discussion among our ancestors and spirit guardians based on what gifts are needed within our communities during the time of our lives. Read more>>
Sora Won
For me, seeking advice from my family and friends has been immensely helpful in shaping my understanding of what truly matters. Their perspectives have provided clarity during times of uncertainty, allowing me to see my strengths and passions from a different angle. Read more>>
Seasen Acevedo-zullo
Finding my purpose wasn’t a straightforward path—it emerged from a long journey through trauma, healing, and rediscovery. Surviving 9/11 derailed my life; I left college during my senior year and carried the weight of that day for years. Travel, something I had always loved, also became a major source of anxiety. Although I did travel during this period, I often needed medication to manage the anxiety that came with it. Read more>>
Oneida Eudave Smiley
Since I was young my family and I would spend our summers in Mexico. I always had this dream of living there longer than a couple months. So in October of 2014 I packed up all my bags and left Montana. I didn’t know how long I’d be gone for or if I would ever return. My goal while I was in Calvillo, Aguascalientes (central Mexico) was to find a job. I had graduated from Montana State University in 2013 so I assumed I would easily find one, especially being bilingual. To my surprise it was very difficult so my back up plan was to find a school where I could learn something. I discovered a technical school in January of 2015 where I took courses on massage therapy, makeup, nail care and skincare. Read more>>
Aika Nelson
History is made by ordinary people and I want that to translate in the content that I create. I’m a full time attorney and a part time sustainable content creator. I want my followers to see that a sustainable lifestyle is easily attainable with few simple tweaks. Read more>>
Claudia Barfoot
It was a combination of factors. Since I was very young I have been asking the big question Why am I here? Why was I born? Each time feeling there was a reason, a role I needed to play in life, so my innate curiosity was the first factor. The second factor is related to the family that raised me and my culture. I am lucky enough to have parents that gave me enough freedom to explore and choose my interests in life. They also exposed me to literature, music, and art which developed in me a specific sensitivity, appreciation for beauty, and the expression of self. Those qualities paired with a temperament geared towards compassion, empathy, and mysticism set me on a specific path. That didn’t mean I knew what my purpose was but it laid a path in which I would later on find my purpose. Read more>>
Rafael Limon
My purpose emerged from my own financial struggles and the desire to create a life free from financial stress. At one point, I was burdened with debt, living paycheck-to-paycheck, and it became clear that financial peace was not just about making money—it was about managing and planning well. Through learning and eventually becoming a Ramsey Solutions Certified Financial Coach, I saw that the same peace I found could benefit others, especially in the Hispanic community, where financial education isn’t always accessible. My purpose now is to provide families, single parents, and young people with the financial tools to live a fuller life without the weight of debt. I feel fulfilled seeing others take control of their finances and build a life where they can truly focus on what matters most. Read more>>
Dr. Tamika Johnson
I discovered my purpose by first engaging in a personal introspection about my interests and what I believe I’m meant to do. It became clear to me that my calling is deeply rooted in my divine purpose. I was able to pinpoint my calling by setting and executing my goals. I started with both short and long-term goals, specifying their start and finish dates. I learned to modify these goals as needed. I realized that my calling and enthusiasm revolve around empowering others to reach their highest potential. Witnessing others fulfill their purpose is what drives me to pursue this as my career. Read more>>
D’ann Schaefer
Reflecting on my journey, I’ve come to realize that purpose isn’t a fixed destination but rather an evolving path. At different stages of life, what brings meaning and fulfillment can change, influenced by experiences, relationships, and personal growth.
For me, the quest for purpose came about when being diagnosed with a bone marrow cancer at the age of 22 years old. I quickly came to understand that tomorrow isn’t promised, and we only get one life to live so we better make it count. I prayed often and asked God to spare my life and use me in ways where I could bring others hope and show them the love of God. Read more>>
Ashley Fazio
I found my passion when I found pole fitness, my calling when I began teaching pole to others, and my purpose when I took a leap of faith and opened my own pole and aerial fitness studio, CLAQ HAUS Pole Fitness. I started pole fitness for many reasons, but what began as a fun hobby, I quickly learned was so much more than that; it is truly my passion. It is the first time I tried something and did not quit. In fact, it kept me coming back for more. It sparked a fire in me that I had never experienced before. I found and fell in love with myself through pole and I can’t imagine my life without it. It was truly love at first spin. Read more>>
Luc Martineau
Finding my purpose has been a lifelong journey. I was a sensitive kid, a dreamer, an intellectual, raised by two remarkable individuals. I lost my father in 2010 ; he was 82 years old . He taught me to be true and honest , and encouraged me to pursue university studies before making any final choice .My mother, now 93 years , has Alzheimer’s disease and is the last surviving member of this courageous generation .My mother a passionate cinema lover with a beautiful coloratura voice , and my grandmother a painter, both passed me down their love for the arts. So encouraged ,at 9, I wrote short poems to express my inner self. I drew a lot and created comic strips. In my teenage years, I thought about becoming an artist ,a writer or filmmaker. Read more>>
