Finding Meaning in Life: How Purpose Shapes Our Journey
What is the difference between a goal and a purpose? Many of us set goals, striving to reach specific milestones—graduating from college, starting a business, or climbing a mountain. Goals are tangible, measurable, and have a clear endpoint. But what about purpose?
Think of purpose as the reason behind the journey. While goals give direction, purpose fuels the journey itself. It’s your ‘why’—the deep-seated motivation that keeps you moving forward even when challenges arise. Purpose evolves as you grow, shaping the decisions you make and the meaning you derive from your experiences.
The Challenge of Finding Purpose
For many young adults, discovering a sense of purpose can feel like an overwhelming task. Unlike a goal, which is a concrete target, a purpose is deeply personal. It’s not just about what you want to achieve but about who you want to become.
The modern world presents endless distractions, making it easy to lose sight of meaningful aspirations. Social media, career pressures, and external expectations can cloud our sense of purpose, leaving us feeling lost or uncertain about our direction in life. That’s why intentional self-discovery—through reflection, faith, and personal growth—is so vital.
Facing Challenges to Grow
No one is exempt from struggles. Life’s challenges test our resilience and shape our character. Yet, it is through adversity that we gain the most growth.
Consider the people you admire—leaders, mentors, or role models. What sets them apart? A common trait among them is the ability to embrace adversity rather than avoid it. Learning to navigate hardships with resilience can help us develop wisdom, strength, and deeper meaning in our lives.
As Henry David Thoreau once said:
“Happiness is like a butterfly; the more you chase it, the more it will evade you, but if you notice the other things around you, it will gently come and sit on your shoulder.”
True happiness is not about chasing external success; it’s about cultivating a meaningful life by aligning our actions with our purpose. When we focus on purpose, happiness follows naturally.
The Struggle for Meaning in a Distracted World
Many young adults today face an internal conflict: they set ambitious goals but struggle with self-doubt and uncertainty. Society often encourages external achievements—career success, financial stability, and recognition—but fails to emphasize deeper fulfillment.
At Cumorah Academy, we believe in fostering both achievement and purpose. We provide an environment where young adults can step away from distractions and immerse themselves in personal growth. Through faith, mentorship, and education, students discover their potential and learn to build lives rooted in meaning.
A Student’s Journey to Purpose: Ellie’s Story
Ellie Earnest from Utah, USA, is one such student who found clarity and direction at Cumorah Academy. When she returned from her mission in Louisiana, she felt lost, unsure of what her next steps should be. Like many young adults, she questioned her purpose.
Her uncle, Brick Allen, who was a mentor in the Fall of 2022, told her about Cumorah Academy, and after much prayer and reflection, she decided to apply. Initially, she had doubts—was this the right decision? Would it truly help her find the direction she was seeking?
However, as she spent time at Cumorah Academy, her perspective changed. She found peace in her decision and discovered a supportive community that encouraged her personal and spiritual growth.
“Cumorah Academy is a great place to learn and grow,” Ellie shares. “It helps you connect with others, build a stronger relationship with God, and grow as a person.”
Enrolled in the Business Program, Ellie initially doubted her ability to create her own business. Yet, through her experiences at the Academy, she overcame these fears and gained valuable skills that will serve her beyond the program—strengthening connections with others, developing empathy, and learning the importance of perseverance.
One of the most powerful aspects of Cumorah Academy is its intentional focus. Unlike the distractions of everyday life, the Academy provides a space where students can center their lives on Jesus Christ, reinforcing their spiritual foundation and building a lasting connection with their Savior.
Why Purpose Matters More Than Ever
Ellie’s journey reflects the transformative power of purpose. When young adults are given the right environment to explore their potential, they begin to uncover the deeper meaning behind their goals. Purpose isn’t just about reaching a destination—it’s about who you become along the way.
At Cumorah Academy, we help students embrace this truth. Whether through faith, mentorship, or personal development, our programs are designed to guide students in discovering their ‘why.’
If you’re seeking clarity and meaning in your life, remember this: Goals will give you direction, but purpose will give you fulfillment. By focusing on both, you can create a life that is not just successful but deeply meaningful.
Are you ready to find your purpose? Join us at Cumorah Academy and start your journey today.
Written by Fernando L. Ferreira Jr.
Photos by Felipe Carrillo
Supervision by Kamila Uberto Fulllmer
