The Feeling Lost Paradox
In a world where most people aspire to be social media influencers rather than doctors, it can feel intimidating to put yourself out there. There are hundreds of millions of people online posting content, and it seems like the endless amount of information at our fingertips is only spiraling. If you’re anything like I am, this is overwhelming and inevitably paralyzing. What’s the point of doing anything when it’s already being done?
This is something I’ve always struggled with, finding purpose. I often feel lost and am unsure of myself, my plans, or what my general point in life is. So, I did what I do best – I read about it and applied psychology to it. & by doing that, I found some pretty reassuring insights.
Feeling lost and uncertain about life can feel like a problem that needs solving – but this isn’t always the case (despite the anxiety and self-doubt you may be living with). Neuroscience and psychology suggest that this state of confusion and uncertainty can open doors to self-discovery and transformation in ways that a clear visual of the path ahead could not.
The Brain’s Response to Uncertainty
Our brains are wired for predictability, a sense of stability, and routine – welcome to the prefrontal cortex, where all your decision-making and behavior predicting commences. 1 When we are faced with uncertainty, the amygdala can activate stress responses, which is why feeling lost can have a side effect of anxiety with a dash of existential dread. However, research shows that uncertainty also stimulates neuroplasticity, encouraging learning and adaptability.2
Psychological Theories on Neuroplasticity
Neuroplasticity is the brain’s ability to form new neural connections that evolve our way of thinking. Repeatedly engaging in a particular activity, behavior, thought, or emotion causes the associated neural pathways to become more adept. This brings a new meaning to “practice makes perfect”. In the book Mind Sculpting: How to Rewire Your Brain for Lasting Change3, author Patton describes the application of Hebbian Theory, which utilizes different techniques to change negative thought patterns into positive ones, as a science that we can apply to our lives in a realistic, cohesive way.
So, what do we do with this information? How do we determine our “purpose” out of this?..
Well, if neuroplasticity means our brains are constantly evolving based on what we repeatedly do and think, then it follows that our “purpose” isn’t necessarily something we find – it’s something we create.
Applying Neuroplasticity to Create a Sense of Purpose
- Define what matters to you – Now that we know that neural pathways strengthen with repetition, it’s safe to conclude that reinforcing a sense of purpose by engaging in activities and thoughts that align with what feels meaningful will help you find a sense of meaning.
- Journaling prompts: What excites me? What do I care about?
- Reshape Your Thought Patterns – If you get stuck in negative self-doubt and repetitive thoughts about what you lack, then that is what you will focus on. Focus on actively replacing negative thoughts and doubts with more constructive and empowering thoughts.
- Affirmation: I am exploring and creating my purpose every day.
- Take Consistent Actions – It doesn’t matter how small the action is. Purpose isn’t a single grand realization, but rather something that is built through daily habits and a shifting of focus. Repeatedly engage in actions/activities/thoughts that resonate with you. Eventually, this repetition will lead to a natural feeling of fulfillment.
- Embrace Change – Your purpose can shift as you do, and that is the natural way of life. Thanks to the application and understanding of neuroplasticity, you can reinvent yourself, explore new passions, and adapt your mindset as your life unfolds.
Instead of stressing over finding a purpose, think about training your brain to recognize and create meaning in the things you choose to pursue.
-Suzy
SUZANNAH MASURA 
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