Welcome to Our Latest Newsletter! 

📚 Read Time: 12 Minutes

Welcome to the second week of our journey toward purpose! As part of our seven-week series aligned with the Path to Purpose course, this week we’re diving into a vital step in creating a meaningful life: connecting to your "why." 

In last week’s newsletter, we explored the importance of defining core values as the foundation of an authentic life. Now, we take the next step by uncovering the deeper motivations that drive our actions and decisions. Understanding your "why" gives meaning to your core values and purpose, turning them into a roadmap for fulfillment. 

If you missed last week’s course introduction, you can still join us here: 

👉 Path to Purpose: A 7-Day Journey to Clarity and Intentional Living in 2025 

Michael’s Perspective: Discovering Purpose in the Smaller Whys 

I vividly remember seeing a clip of Jim Carrey talking about the concept of purpose, and he said something that stuck with me: “I think everybody should get rich and famous and do everything they ever dreamed of so they can see that it's not the answer.” That statement wasn’t groundbreaking in itself, but it left an impression on me because it called out something we often overlook in a hyper-achievement-focused society: why we do what we do. 

In a world so obsessed with “what”—what we have, what we’ve accomplished, or what’s next—the most important question, the why, often gets buried. And yet, it’s the most essential part. Without a clear sense of why, even the greatest achievements can feel empty. That’s why this week’s topic resonates so much with me. But I’ll be honest—understanding your why isn’t something that happens in one grand, cathartic moment. It’s not a lightbulb flicking on or a single, cinematic revelation. Instead, it’s a process, a gradual uncovering that happens in layers, shaped by your experiences, intentions, and reflection. 

For me, thinking about my why starts with asking hard questions. Is this something that aligns with my long-term plans? Does it bring value beyond myself? These aren’t questions you can answer once and be done with—they’re ones I revisit constantly. For example, you might read this newsletter today and feel inspired to start identifying your why, but my advice is this: don’t rush to define it in some neat, short-term revision of your life’s direction. True purpose takes time to clarify and grows as you grow. 

When I reflect on my journey, one of the biggest reasons I co-created Tiger Resilience was to create something that offers genuine value to others. This wasn’t just about me or my career—it was about building a platform where people could find tools, guidance, and inspiration to overcome challenges and live purposefully. And while that sounds lofty, purpose doesn’t have to be tied to something grandiose. Often, it’s found in the smaller, everyday moments that align with what you care about most. 

Take running, for example. I’ve written about it before, but it’s worth revisiting because it embodies so much of what purpose means to me. Running gives me a sense of connection—to myself, to others, and even to strangers I’ve never met. There’s a platform called Strava where people can give each other “kudos” for completing runs. It’s such a small thing—a virtual thumbs-up—but it fosters this collective spirit of encouragement and recognition. It reminds me that purpose isn’t just about personal goals; it’s about how we interact with others and create value for them, even in the simplest ways. 

And that’s something I try to carry into everything I do. Whether it’s the intent and research behind writing these newsletters, the effort I put into a challenging workout, or the moments I spend with my fiancée, family, and friends, I try to approach life with an awareness of those smaller, quieter whys. These aren’t necessarily the big-picture purpose statements you might think of when you hear the word “why,” but they add up. They create a foundation for a life that feels purposeful and fulfilling. 

I’ll be the first to admit that I don’t have my why fully figured out. Maybe I never will. And honestly, I’m okay with that. What I’ve learned is that the pursuit of purpose isn’t about finding one definitive answer. It’s about learning to see purpose in the process. It’s about embracing the smaller whys that give your daily life meaning, whether it’s encouraging someone else, overcoming a personal challenge, or simply being present for the people who matter most to you. 

One of the most meaningful parts of this journey has been recognizing that purpose doesn’t always have to feel profound or monumental. It can be as simple as cheering someone on, writing something that helps someone feel seen, or showing up for a difficult moment because you know it matters. These moments of intention stack up over time, creating a life that feels anchored in meaning. 

So, here’s my advice to you: don’t put pressure on yourself to define your why in a single sentence or find it all at once. Start small. Reflect on the things that give you a sense of fulfillment or bring value to others. Look for those moments that make you pause and feel like you’re exactly where you need to be. That’s where purpose begins. 

For me, those moments are everywhere—in the hard runs, the quiet evenings with my fiancée, the conversations with family, and even the act of sitting down to write these words. They’re not grand, and they’re not perfect, but they remind me why I do what I do. And honestly, that’s enough. 

Sometimes, defining your why starts with simply giving yourself the space to wonder about it—even if it’s in a tub, eyes closed, being able to sit with your thoughts.

Bernie’s Perspective: Why Does My Why Matter?

Welcome to the second week of our journey toward purpose! It’s an honor to walk this path with you as part of our seven-week series aligned with the Path to Purpose course. This week, we’re diving into a topic that hits close to home for me: connecting to your "why." 

For years, I struggled to find clarity in my own life. Like many of you, I wore different hats—husband, father, clinician, corporate leader, mentor—but deep down, I often felt there was something missing. I was moving through life fulfilling roles but not fully connecting to the deeper motivation behind why I was doing what I did. I realized that while my actions were meaningful, they lacked alignment with a clear sense of purpose. 

The moment everything changed was when I faced a pivotal question: What legacy do I want to leave behind? This wasn’t about ego or achievement; it was about understanding what truly mattered to me. For me, the answer was rooted in helping others transform adversity into triumph. It was about empowering individuals to rise, just as I had to do in my own life. 

This paradigm shift in my life unfolded in two profound stages. The first was my early struggle with alcohol, which I had leaned on as a coping mechanism for the unhealed trauma I carried from my youth. Becoming homeless at 17 was a pivotal moment that shaped much of my early life. It left wounds I didn’t know how to address, and instead of facing the pain head-on, I turned to alcohol. For years, it served as a crutch—a way to disconnect from my emotions and silence the parts of myself I wasn’t ready to confront. But in numbing those feelings, I also drowned out my true sense of purpose, my deeper "why." 

The second stage began when I made the life-changing decision to put down the alcohol. This marked the start of a journey of rediscovery and healing. Freed from the haze, I began to reassess my life and where I was headed. At the time, I was deeply entrenched in corporate management, climbing the ranks as a general and regional manager in the service industry. On the surface, I was successful, but underneath, I felt disconnected from a sense of fulfillment and meaning. 

It was during this period of reflection that I started to ask myself the big questions: What truly matters to me? What do I want my life to stand for? As I peeled back the layers, I came to understand that the answers were tied to something far more profound than my career or outward achievements. They were rooted in a deeper sense of purpose—a calling to discover not only who I am but why I am here. 

This discovery became the foundation for defining my "why." I believe this journey of exploration and self-discovery is something we all must undertake. It’s not always easy, but it is essential. For me, it was about reclaiming my life, reconnecting with my true self, and stepping into a life that aligns with what truly matters. And this is why I’m so passionate about helping others define their "why"—because I know the transformative power it holds.

Finding my "why" transformed the way I approached everything—from my relationships to my work with Tiger Resilience. It gave meaning to my core values of integrity, growth, and community, turning them from abstract ideals into a powerful guide for my decisions. My "why" became my north star, illuminating a path toward a life that felt not just productive, but deeply fulfilling. 

This week, I encourage you to do the same. Take time to reflect on what drives you at your core. What brings you joy? What gives you strength, even on your hardest days? What impact do you want to have on the world? When you discover your "why," you unlock a source of clarity and motivation that can carry you through any challenge. 

I’ll leave you with this: Your "why" doesn’t have to be grand or world-changing to be powerful. It simply has to be true to you. When your actions align with your deeper purpose, you create a life that not only resonates with your soul but inspires those around you. 

Let’s uncover your "why" together. Here’s to a week of reflection, discovery, and the courage to connect to what truly matters. 

Whenever I struggle to see my purpose, I take a little "off-grid" approach - time in nature works wonders.

The Science of Understanding Your "Why" 

The importance of understanding your "why" is backed by compelling research in neuroscience and psychology. Here are some key findings that illustrate its significance: 

Purpose Enhances Performance: Studies show that people with a strong sense of purpose are 42% more productive and focused in their work. This is because purpose aligns mental and emotional energy, reducing distractions and increasing commitment. 

Health Benefits: A study published in JAMA Psychiatry found that individuals with a clear sense of purpose were 27% less likely to suffer from heart disease and 30% more likely to live longer, healthier lives. 

Stress Reduction: Research indicates that connecting with your "why" lowers cortisol levels, the stress hormone, enabling better emotional regulation during challenges. 

Increased Resilience: People with a defined purpose are 48% more likely to overcome setbacks and continue pursuing their goals, as intrinsic motivation acts as a buffer against adversity. 

What Happens Without a "Why"? 

The consequences of not having a clear "why" are just as significant: 

Lack of Fulfillment: Over 70% of individuals without a defined sense of purpose report feeling unfulfilled in their daily lives. 

Higher Risk of Burnout: Without a guiding purpose, people are 68% more likely to experience burnout, as their efforts feel disconnected from meaningful outcomes. 

Decision Paralysis: Studies show that individuals who lack clarity on their "why" struggle with decision-making, often leading to inaction or regret.

The Difference Between Your "Why" and Your "What" 

It’s common to confuse what you want with why you want it. The distinction is critical for living authentically and staying connected to your deeper motivations. 

Defining the "What" and the "Why" 

The "What": These are the external outcomes or goals you aim to achieve, such as completing a project, running a marathon, or earning a promotion. While important, they represent only the surface level of your efforts. 

The "Why": This is the emotional and intrinsic motivation behind those goals. For instance, the desire to run a marathon (the "what") may stem from your deeper motivation to challenge yourself and build resilience (the "why"). 

"Why" This Matters 

When your "what" doesn’t align with your "why," you risk feeling unfulfilled—even when you achieve your goals. Pursuing outcomes disconnected from your purpose can lead to frustration and burnout. Conversely, when your "why" drives your "what," the journey becomes meaningful and rewarding, regardless of the outcome. 

Integrating Your "Why" Into Daily Life 

Understanding your "why" is transformative, but its power lies in application. When your daily actions align with your purpose, even small tasks become meaningful. 

Practical Steps to Live Your "Why": 

Set Intentional Goals: Begin each day by asking, “What can I do today that reflects my purpose?” 

Make Values-Based Decisions: Use your "why" as a lens to evaluate opportunities. Ask, “Does this choice align with what truly matters to me?” 

Celebrate Small Wins: Recognize when your actions reflect your purpose. This reinforces meaningful behavior and keeps you motivated. 

End with Reflection: Journal daily about how your actions aligned with your "why" and where there’s room for growth. 

Real-World Example: Simon Sinek’s Perspective on "Why" 

Simon Sinek’s TED Talk, Start with Why, has inspired millions to rethink the way they approach purpose and leadership. His "Golden Circle" framework illustrates how beginning with your "why" creates clarity and drives success. 

Simon’s Philosophy

Start from the Inside Out: According to Sinek, great leaders and organizations inspire by communicating their "why" first. This creates an emotional connection that motivates and unites people. 

The "Why" as an Anchor: Sinek emphasizes that your "why" should be the foundation for all decisions. For example, companies like Apple prioritize challenging the status quo (their "why") over simply selling innovative products. 

Relevance Beyond Leadership: While Sinek’s framework applies to organizations, it’s equally impactful on a personal level. Identifying your "why" clarifies your goals, strengthens relationships, and enhances your ability to navigate challenges. 

Quote from Sinek: 

"People don’t buy what you do; they buy why you do it. And what you do simply proves what you believe." 

👉 Simon Sinek: Start with Why (YouTube) 

Journaling Exercise: Discovering and Living Your "Why" 

Reflection is a powerful tool for uncovering your "why" and ensuring it guides your daily life. Use these prompts to engage deeply with your purpose: 

Defining Meaningful Moments: 

Write about three moments in your life when you felt most alive. What values or motivations were present? 

Describe a challenge you overcame. What role did your "why" play in helping you persist? 

Clarify Your Vision: 

Imagine yourself 10 years from now. What does a purpose-driven life look like for you? What actions can you take now to make that vision a reality? 

Align Daily Actions: 

For the next week, track your decisions and actions. At the end of each day, note whether they aligned with your "why" and reflect on what you could do differently. 

Create a "Why" Statement: 

Summarize your "why" in one powerful sentence. Use this as a daily reminder of what motivates you. 

To make the most of these exercises, use our Self-Esteem Journal, designed specifically to guide reflection and track progress. It’s the perfect resource for building a purpose-driven life: 

👉 Self-Esteem Journal 

Final Thoughts: Living with Purpose

Your "why" is the foundation of a meaningful life. It’s not just about setting goals or achieving success—it’s about aligning your actions with your deeper motivations and values. By reconnecting with your "why," you create a life of clarity, resilience, and fulfillment. 

This week, take time to explore your "why." Reflect, journal, and make purposeful decisions. Each step brings you closer to living a life that truly resonates with who you are. 

Stay Resilient, 

Michael & Bernie 

Tiger Resilience

Transform your life in just 7 days!

Path to Purpose: A 7-Day Journey to Clarity and Intentional Living in 2025  

Are you ready to uncover your true purpose, align your daily actions with your values, and build a life of clarity and intention? Path to Purpose is more than just a course—it’s a transformational experience designed to help you tap into your inner strength and rise above life’s challenges.  

This transformational multimedia interactive mini-course is designed for individuals ready to create a life of meaning and fulfillment. With just 20 minutes a day, you’ll explore practical tools, exercises, and journaling prompts to discover your unique purpose and integrate it into your daily life. 

Start your new year with a renewed sense of direction and empowerment.

Visit us at Tiger-Resilience.com to learn more!

References:

1. Simon Sinek's TED Talk: "Start with Why"
   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u4ZoJKF_VuA

2. Gallup: Purpose and Life Satisfaction Study
   https://www.gallup.com/education/389796/purpose-overview.aspx

3. JAMA Psychiatry Study on Purpose and Health
   https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamapsychiatry/fullarticle/2735998

4. Psychological Science: Purpose and Resilience
   https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/0956797614553944

5. Positive Psychology Resources
   https://positivepsychology.com/purpose-in-life/