Sometimes we ask ourselves quietly: Why am I here? What really matters to me? These questions aren’t small. They sit in our hearts when life feels too routine, too noisy, or too empty.
In South Asia, many of us grow up in a world shaped by others parents, teachers, society. We follow paths that seem “safe” or “respectable.” But along the way, we forget to ask: What do I truly want? What brings me alive?
This article isn’t about big theories. It’s a gentle, honest look at how to start finding your own purpose and passion one real step at a time.
What Does It Mean to Have Purpose and Passion?
Let’s keep it simple.
Purpose is the feeling that your life means something. It’s your “why.”
Passion is the energy that lights you up. It’s your “what.”
Purpose gives direction. Passion gives fuel.
Together, they make you feel alive and connected to something beyond just passing time.
Why Do So Many People Feel Lost?
Because life often teaches us to listen more to others than ourselves.
In our culture, from a young age, we hear:
“What will people say?”
“Choose a safe career.”
“That’s not practical.”
So we learn to ignore our feelings. We study what’s expected. Work where we’re told. Marry when the clock ticks.
It’s no surprise then, that many of us wake up one day feeling empty even if we’ve done everything “right.”
Signs You Haven’t Found Your Purpose Yet
Not sure if this is you? Here are some quiet signals:
You feel unmotivated even when life looks okay on paper
You keep asking, “Is this all there is?”
You get jealous of people who love what they do
You often feel tired, bored, or disconnected
You’re doing a lot, but it doesn’t feel meaningful
It’s not laziness. It’s a lack of alignment between your life and your true self.
How to Find Your Purpose and Passion in Life
Let’s make this practical and doable. You don’t need to quit your job or climb a mountain to figure this out.
Start by Noticing What Moves You
What excites you? What frustrates you?
If something makes your heart beat faster whether in joy or anger it’s a clue. Our emotions are like a compass. They point to what matters.
Example: Do you feel alive while helping others? Or when you write? Teach? Build things? Listen closely.
Reflect on Childhood Interests and Dreams
Think back.
Before marks, money, or opinions what did you love doing?
Maybe it was drawing, storytelling, exploring, fixing things. Often, your younger self knew something true before the world added pressure.
Identify Your Core Values
What matters most to you? Honesty? Freedom? Respect? Creativity? Peace?
Write down 5 values. Now ask:
Does your current life reflect these?
If not, what’s missing?
Values are like roots. Strong roots give life purpose.
Learn to Say No to What Drains You
You can’t say yes to your real purpose while constantly saying yes to what drains you.
What are you tolerating that feels wrong or heavy?
A job? A habit? A role?
Even small “nos” open space for better things.
The Role of Culture, Family, and Expectations
Let’s be honest.
In South Asian families, many choices are not just “personal.” Career, marriage, even hobbies come with emotional weight.
We’re taught to fit in, not stand out.
But finding purpose doesn’t mean rejecting your culture. It means respecting your roots while still honoring your own heart.
Yes, balance is hard but possible.
You can:
Be a good son/daughter and still pursue something meaningful.
Respect elders and have your own voice.
Work a regular job and explore a passion on the side.
It’s not all or nothing.
Common Myths About Passion and Purpose
Let’s bust a few lies that keep people stuck:
| Myth | Truth |
|---|---|
| You must “find it” all at once | Purpose grows with time and action |
| Passion is only for the talented | Everyone has something that lights them up |
| Purpose must be grand or heroic | Small acts of care, honesty, or joy are just as powerful |
| Once you find it, life gets easy | Purposeful life is meaningful but still includes effort |
Psychology Tips to Stay on the Path
Now that you’ve started thinking, how do you stay connected to your “why”?
Journaling and Reflection Prompts
Take 10 minutes each week to write:
What energized me this week?
What drained me?
Did I act in line with my values?
You’ll start seeing patterns. Awareness creates clarity.
Try, Fail, Adjust
You don’t need a “perfect plan.”
Try small steps:
Volunteer
Start a hobby blog
Talk to people doing what you’re curious about
Every action teaches you something even failure.
Purpose is less about thinking and more about doing.
Final Words: It’s Okay to Take Your Time
You’re not behind. You’re not broken. You’re not too late.
Purpose doesn’t arrive as a thunderbolt. It often grows slowly, through honesty, trial, and kindness toward yourself.
What matters is that you keep listening to that quiet voice inside the one asking, “What do I really want?”
Even if the answer is not clear today, it will come.
Just keep walking.
Imran Shahzad, M.Sc. Psychology (BZU, 2012), shares real-world mental health tips and emotional guidance in simple English for everyday South Asian readers.