Living Your Purpose When Life Gets Pricey: How to Thrive in a Cost of Living Crisis
In times of financial turmoil, pursuing your purpose might feel like a luxury you can’t afford. But what if I told you that now is precisely the time to lean into your passions and align with your true purpose? In fact, adversity can often be the catalyst that pushes us to discover what we’re truly capable of. As Viktor Frankl, a renowned psychiatrist and Holocaust survivor, once said, "When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves."
1. Reframe Your Mindset: See the Crisis as an Opportunity
"Out of clutter, find simplicity." – Albert Einstein
Financial struggles can narrow our perspective, making us feel trapped in survival mode. However, reframing your mindset can transform the cost of living crisis into a breeding ground for creativity and resilience. Start by asking yourself: “What can this situation teach me about what I truly value?” When you shift your focus from scarcity to opportunity, you open the door to unexpected possibilities.
Action Step: Write down three things that you have learned or could learn from this financial challenge. Identify how these lessons can be applied to pursuing your purpose.
2. Prioritise What Matters: Declutter Your Life and Finances
"The ability to simplify means to eliminate the unnecessary so that the necessary may speak." – Hans Hofmann
When your wallet feels lighter, it’s a perfect time to lighten your load. By decluttering your life, both physically and financially, you create space for what truly matters. This isn't just about trimming expenses; it’s about re-evaluating what brings you joy, fulfilment, and a sense of purpose.
Statistics Spotlight: According to a 2022 survey by Deloitte, 61% of people experienced increased financial anxiety due to the rising cost of living. Interestingly, those who took the time to declutter their finances reported feeling 30% more in control of their lives.
Action Step: Make a list of non-essential expenses you can cut and use the savings to invest in something that aligns with your purpose. It could be an online course, books, or even setting up a small fund to support your passion projects.
3. Embrace the Power of Community and Networking
"Alone, we can do so little; together, we can do so much." – Helen Keller
Your purpose doesn’t exist in a vacuum, and you don't have to pursue it alone. In challenging times, community is often the greatest source of strength. Networking can open doors to opportunities you never imagined, and it doesn’t have to be costly.
Statistics Spotlight: A LinkedIn report found that 85% of jobs are filled through networking, proving that building connections can be more effective than job boards or traditional job searches.
Action Step: Join online communities, attend free webinars, or participate in local meetups related to your interests. Share your journey, ask for advice, and offer your support to others. You never know who might have the resources or connections you need to advance your purpose.
4. Learn New Skills for Free or at Low Cost
"An investment in knowledge pays the best interest." – Benjamin Franklin
Pursuing your purpose doesn’t always require a hefty investment. In today’s digital age, there are countless free or low-cost resources to help you gain the skills needed to move forward. Whether it’s learning a new language, developing a skill, or understanding personal finance, now is the time to arm yourself with knowledge.
Action Step: Explore platforms like Coursera, Udemy, or Khan Academy. Set aside 30 minutes a day to learn something new that aligns with your purpose.
5. Start Small but Stay Consistent
"Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day in and day out." – Robert Collier
One of the biggest misconceptions about pursuing your purpose is that it requires grand gestures or immediate full-time commitment. In reality, small, consistent steps lead to the most significant changes. By dedicating even 15 minutes a day to your passion, you’ll build momentum that can carry you through difficult times.
Action Step: Identify one small action you can take each day that brings you closer to your purpose. It could be as simple as writing a blog post, sketching an idea, or reaching out to someone in your network.
6. Embrace a 'Progress Over Perfection' Mentality
"Done is better than perfect." – Sheryl Sandberg
Perfectionism can be paralysing, especially when your resources are limited. Instead of waiting for the perfect moment or conditions, take imperfect action. By accepting that progress is better than perfection, you free yourself to make mistakes, learn, and grow.
Action Step: Identify one project or goal you’ve been putting off due to a lack of resources or fear of failure. Take one actionable step towards it today, no matter how small.
7. Be Adaptable and Open to Change
“To improve is to change; to be perfect is to change often.” — Winston Churchill
The cost of living crisis has undoubtedly shaken the foundations of many lives. But being adaptable is key to not only surviving but thriving. Being open to change allows you to pivot and discover new paths that align with your purpose, even if they’re different from what you initially envisioned.
Action Step: Reflect on areas where you may need to adapt or change your approach. Is there a new direction you could explore that aligns with your purpose, given the current circumstances?
Final Thoughts: Turning Crisis into Clarity
Pursuing your purpose during a cost of living crisis might seem daunting, but it’s also an opportunity to discover your strength, resilience, and resourcefulness. As the saying goes, “A smooth sea never made a skilled sailor.” Embrace the storm, adjust your sails, and navigate your journey with intention.
Key Takeaway: You don’t need to wait for the perfect financial situation to pursue your purpose. Start with what you have, where you are, and take consistent steps forward. In doing so, you’ll find that even the darkest times can be a source of light, guiding you towards a more meaningful and purpose-driven life.