Find Your Purpose at Work as a Woman: How to Discover and Define It

Finding Your Purpose: How It Helps Women Thrive at Work and in Life

As women in the workplace, we often face many challenges that can impact our sense of purpose and identity. These challenges can be life-changing events such as becoming a mother, losing a parent, being made redundant, experiencing workplace bullying, or even being promoted but feeling unworthy. These situations, while different, can all cause us to question who we are and what we stand for, especially in the context of our professional lives. It’s during these moments of uncertainty that it becomes critical to reset and reflect on our purpose as a woman at work. 

What Do We Mean by Purpose? 

Purpose is not just about having a job or a title; it’s about understanding what drives you and gives your work and life meaning. It’s the “why” behind what you do, and it shapes the way you approach challenges, relationships, and opportunities. Simon Sinek famously described it as your “Why”—that fundamental reason you get out of bed in the morning and do what you do. This "why" serves as a guiding star—a north star—that helps us navigate through both personal and professional challenges. When you’re aligned with your purpose, it gives you clarity, direction, and resilience, even when the going gets tough. 

At the Women at Work Support Hub, we believe that finding your purpose is key to thriving in your career and life. When you understand what drives you, it becomes easier to make decisions, set meaningful goals, and stay motivated, regardless of the obstacles that may come your way. 

The Ikigai Framework: A Guide to Finding Your Purpose 

To help women navigate the process of discovering their purpose, we often use the Ikigai framework. Ikigai is a Japanese concept that roughly translates to “a reason for being.” It’s the intersection of four key elements that guide you to a fulfilling life and career:

What you Love:

These are your passions—what you deeply enjoy doing. It’s the work that excites you, that makes you feel fulfilled and energized. 

What you're good at:

These are your strengths, skills, and talents. Understanding what you excel at allows you to leverage your unique abilities and contribute in meaningful ways. 

What the world needs:

This is about identifying how your work serves a greater purpose—what impact you want to have on others, your community, or even the world at large. 

What you can be paid for:

This ensures that your work is sustainable. It’s the practical aspect—making sure you can provide for yourself and align your passions with a career that compensates you appropriately. 

When you align these four elements, you discover your Ikigai—the sweet spot where your passion, mission, vocation, and profession all intersect. This alignment is where your true purpose lies, and it’s what will guide you through both your personal and professional life. 

Resetting Your Purpose: The Importance of Self-Reflection 

Resetting your purpose is an essential part of personal development, especially when life throws challenges your way. Whether it’s dealing with a career setback, facing personal challenges, or managing new responsibilities, taking time to reflect on your purpose will help you reset your direction. By tapping into your purpose, you can find clarity about what truly matters to you, both at work and at home. 

It’s also important to recognise that purpose isn’t static; it evolves over time as you grow and as circumstances change. What may have been your driving force in one stage of life might need to shift as you progress in your career or encounter new personal experiences. This flexibility in your purpose is what allows you to thrive in the face of uncertainty. 

Setting Goals and Milestones to Achieve Your Purpose 

Once you’ve identified your purpose, it’s time to transform that clarity into action. The next step is to set meaningful goals and milestones that will move you toward your desired future. These goals should be aligned with your Ikigai and serve as the bridge between where you are now and where you want to be. 

Setting goals is about breaking down your purpose into actionable steps. Whether it's developing a new skill, expanding your network, or taking on a leadership role, each goal should serve as a milestone to keep you motivated and focused. Achieving these smaller milestones will give you the momentum to continue pursuing your larger purpose with confidence. 

Linking Purpose to Personal Development and Mental Toughness 

Finding your purpose is closely linked to personal development and mental toughness. By understanding your purpose, you develop the resilience needed to navigate obstacles, cope with stressors, and stay committed to your goals. Your purpose helps you stay grounded, focused, and strong—qualities that are essential for women at work. When you align your actions with your purpose, you strengthen your mental toughness, which improves your ability to adapt, innovate, and lead with confidence. 

How We Can Help You Find Your Purpose 

At the Women at Work Support Hub, we are here to support you in finding your purpose and setting actionable goals to achieve it. Our services are designed to guide you through this process, from one-on-one coaching sessions to practical workshops. We use proven frameworks like Ikigai and mental toughness tools to help you unlock your potential and craft a fulfilling career and life. 

We understand that finding your purpose is a deeply personal journey, and we offer tailored support to ensure that you have the resources, tools, and guidance you need to succeed. Whether you’re looking for career coaching, leadership development, or personal growth, we’re here to help you thrive. 

Ready to start your journey towards purpose and fulfilment? Explore our services today and let us support you in creating a meaningful, impactful career that aligns with who you truly are.