"5" to Thrive in 2025 - Week 18- Purpose and Passion

Purpose and passion are the driving forces behind every meaningful goal. This week, we're diving into how aligning your goals with your inner passions can put you on a path to success. When you're guided by purpose, every step, be it small or big, begins to feel more intentional, and every challenge becomes an opportunity for growth. Whether you're aiming to improve your health, pursue a new career, or create lasting change in your life, connecting with what truly drives you is key. Let’s explore five actionable steps to help you set and achieve your most fulfilling goals with confidence and clarity.

1. Reflect on What Brings You Joy and Fulfillment

The first step is to take time to reflect on what truly brings you joy. This exercise allows you to connect with what motivates you and aligns your efforts with your true passions. By identifying what brings you joy, you’ll set a clearer path to success.

Why is This Important? Understanding what fuels you is crucial because positive emotions activate brain regions responsible for motivation and reward, strengthening your ability to follow through on goals.

Action Step: Take 10 minutes each morning this week to journal about the things that bring you joy and fulfillment. This exercise will help you gain clarity on what you should focus on.

2. Set a Goal That Aligns with Your Passions

Setting a goal that resonates with your passions ensures you stay motivated and committed over the long term. It also increases the likelihood of success because you’re working toward something meaningful.

Why is This Important? Research shows that when goals align with personal values, they’re more likely to lead to long-term success. Passion drives perseverance, and consistency in pursuit of what you love builds momentum. This is where intrinsic and extrinsic motivation come into play. Intrinsic motivation comes from within—you do something because it’s inherently rewarding, like pursuing a passion or finding personal fulfillment. On the other hand, extrinsic motivation relies on external rewards or recognition. While extrinsic motivation can be a great way to get started, intrinsic motivation is often what fuels long-term commitment and satisfaction in your work.

Action Step: Identify one goal you’re passionate about and write it down. Break it into smaller, achievable steps and schedule time each day to work toward it. Make sure this goal connects deeply with what excites and fulfills you—not just external rewards.

3. Take a Small Step Toward Living Your Purpose Every Day

Every day, commit to taking at least one small action that moves you closer to living your purpose. These daily actions build up and create a strong foundation for long-term success. Focusing on micro-habits—tiny, manageable actions—can make this process easier and more sustainable.

Why is This Important? Micro-habits are simple but powerful. By consistently taking small steps, you reduce resistance and build momentum over time. These habits gradually reshape your routines and mindset, bringing you closer to your larger goals without feeling overwhelmed.

Action Step: Choose one micro-habit today. It could be as small as reading one page of a book or writing for 10 minutes. Start small, and as it becomes a routine, gradually build on it.

4. Surround Yourself with People Who Support Your Dreams

The people you surround yourself with influence your progress. Choose to engage with those who encourage and uplift you as you pursue your dreams. This principle is at the heart of Brian Tracy’s concept that "You are the total of the five people you spend the most time with."

Why is This Important? Neuroscience and social psychology support this idea. Social contagion theory suggests that our behaviors, emotions, and attitudes are significantly shaped by those closest to us. Studies show that people tend to mirror the attitudes, values, and behaviors of their peers, which means that being around individuals who are positive, motivated, and supportive can enhance your own mindset and goals. Additionally, research on social networks indicates that the people you interact with most frequently can influence your habits, decision-making, and even your level of success.

Action Step: Identify at least two people who support your dreams and make a point to connect with them regularly. Whether it’s through a phone call, text, or in-person meetups, stay engaged with those who lift you up and challenge you to grow.

5. Embrace Challenges as Part of Your Journey to Your Purpose

Challenges are an inevitable part of any journey. Instead of avoiding them, embrace them as opportunities for growth and learning.

Why is This Important? Overcoming obstacles strengthens your mindset and resilience. Neuroscience shows that tackling challenges releases dopamine, reinforcing problem-solving skills and persistence.

Action Step: When faced with a challenge, reframe it as an opportunity to grow. Instead of feeling defeated, think of a new way to approach the situation and move forward.

Final Thoughts: From Wish to Reality

As you set your goals and take consistent steps toward your purpose, remember this powerful quote to keep you inspired:

"Purpose is the reason you journey. Passion is the fire that lights the way." – Unknown

This quote serves as a reminder that purpose gives you direction, while passion fuels the drive that keeps you going. Keep these words top of mind as you move forward on your journey.

A plan makes the difference—it takes your wish and turns it into something achievable. Stay focused, stay consistent, and remember that every small step you take brings you closer to the success you desire.

Here’s to your continued success in 2025!

Thrive on,

Your Life & Health Coach – Martha A. Stewart

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is not a substitute for health advice from a qualified medical provider. Always consult a healthcare professional before significantly changing your diet, exercise routine, or lifestyle.