It’s a Wonderful (and Purposeful) Life
Purpose is defined as “the reason for doing something or the reason that something exists; an intention or aim.” Purpose is about combining your natural talents with your passion; it is your life’s message or whatever gives you meaning.
Many of us often think that our purpose needs to be one definitive thing that makes the rest of our life fall into place like magic. However, this is not how life or the real world works. Instead, it is about finding meaning in the things we do every day.
At Uplands Village, we are committed to promoting purposeful living for our residents’ minds, bodies, and spirits. Our retirement living community in Pleasant Hill, Tennessee, provides endless opportunities for individuals to discover meaning and growth in their everyday lives. Through the engaging activities, programs, and other opportunities we offer, our team sees the impact that leading a purposeful life can have on individuals. This is why we are sharing the benefits of living each day with purpose.
Promote a Sense of Happiness
Dr. Ylenio Longo from the University of Nottingham identified 14 distinct attributes that contribute to our well-being – one of them is happiness. By having a strong sense of purpose, you can improve your well-being and promote a sense of happiness at the same time, and studies can prove it.
Psychology Today reported findings from a 2019 survey that said: “a sense of purpose promoted happiness and well-being among adults [aged] 50-90.” Although “happiness” is an abstract idea, for this survey, happiness included positive feelings and emotions ranging from pleasure and life satisfaction to a sense of contribution to a larger purpose.
Encourage Healthy Habits
Leading a purposeful life could mean leading a healthy life. Psychology Today also stated that individuals “with high rankings on [purpose in life] were more likely to exercise regularly, eat healthy foods, watch less TV, participate in the arts, and avoid sedentary behaviors.”
When we feel like we have a purpose in life, we are more motivated to participate in activities that contribute to our overall health and wellness. As a result, we have a stronger desire to care for ourselves – mind, body, and spirit.
Improve Health and Wellness
A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) found that “having a strong sense of purpose in life leads to improvements in both physical and mental health and enhances overall quality of life.”
Individuals who have a strong sense of purpose have been found to have:
- Lower risks of developing chronic diseases
- Better heart health
- Less chronic pain
- Increased longevity
- Lower rates of anxiety and depression
- Improved sleeping habits
- Reduced risks of developing Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia
According to a seven-year study of more than 900 senior living residents published in JAMA Psychiatry, “greater purpose in life was associated with a substantially reduced risk of [Alzheimer’s disease].”
Lead a Purposeful Life at Uplands Village
Our vibrant and progressive retirement living community in Pleasant Hill, Tennessee, combines the amenities and programs of a large community with the charm and personalized care you would expect from a smaller community. Our Uplands Village residents enjoy stimulating lifestyles that offer a deeper sense of purpose.
By spending time in nature, serving others in meaningful ways, continuing to learn and grow, and participating in engaging activities, individuals in our community benefit from an active, fulfilling lifestyle that enables them to enhance the lives of others.
The endless variety of activities, events, volunteer opportunities, and community amenities that our 500-acre campus has to offer makes it easy for anyone to discover their purpose.
If you are not sure what your purpose is, that is okay. It is common for us to get caught up in the myth that our purpose has to be one big thing, but that is not what life is about. Leading a purposeful life is about finding meaning in the little things that you do each and every day.
Create your purpose by trying different types of activities and hobbies that interest you. Your purpose is all about combining your natural talents with your passion, so as long as you enjoy what you do, you are on the right track.
A good place to do this is at Uplands Village. To learn more about our retirement living community and the lifestyle options we offer, visit our website or contact a member of our team.