How do I find my purpose when nothing feels meaningful anymore?

The search for purpose can feel overwhelming, especially when you're in a place where nothing seems to matter or bring you joy. Many people expect sense of purpose to arrive as a lightning bolt of clarity, but more often it emerges gradually through experimentation, connection, and paying attention to what draws your interest, even in small ways. When everything feels meaningless, it's often a sign that you're disconnected from your values, your community, or your sense of agency in the world. This disconnection can happen due to Major depressive disorder, Occupational burnout, major life transitions, or simply the natural evolution of your interests and priorities. Instead of trying to figure out your grand life sense of purpose, start smaller—what activities make you lose track of time? What problems in the world make you feel angry or sad? What would you do if you knew you couldn't fail? purpose doesn't have to be grandiose or career-related. It might be as simple as being a good friend, creating something beautiful, helping your community, or learning new skills. Sometimes purpose is found in the process of healing yourself so you can help others heal. The key is to start taking action, even small actions, in directions that feel even slightly interesting or meaningful. Purpose often reveals itself through engagement rather than contemplation.