Understanding and Overcoming Sadness: A Journey of Purpose

Everyone has moments of sadness, but how do you identify the root cause and address it effectively? This article explores a personal journey of discovering purpose and overcoming emotional lows. By understanding why you feel sad and focusing on purposeful actions, you can transform your mindset and improve your overall well-being.

Personal Journey: A Dream Turned Reality

From the age of 7 or 8, the world of technology captured my imagination. My peers, especially those in IT, fascinated me. As I grew up, my dream was to work in a multinational company, experiencing their dynamic and innovative work environments. I was captivated by the thought of how a small computer could revolutionize large-scale businesses.

Whenever I looked at a washing machine, a series of questions popped into my mind about automation and its impact on businesses. This curiosity was just the beginning of a journey that unexpectedly intersected with my professional life.

Early Joining: A Twist of Fate

Years later, I received an offer letter before even completing my graduation. While most people had to wait for 3-6 months or even a year for their first job after graduation, there I was, with an early offer. Should I be happy for securing my dream job ahead of schedule? The answer quickly became clear: I wasn't.

Despite the seemingly ideal work environment, positive colleagues, and supportive leaders, I found myself in a state of indifference. My first day on the job, my coworkers and project leaders asked, "How are you feeling? What did you do with your first salary?" I replied, "Nothing special."

Finding the Answer: The Power of Books

After work, I turned to books as a means to escape and find answers. One character in a book provided the revelation I needed. The key to my sadness wasn't in the external environment but within myself. The realization was that I lacked a sense of purpose. I was simply performing my job without deeper meaning.

I learned the importance of having purpose at every phase of life. This character became a special symbol of inspiration in my life, not just as a source of realization but also as a guide to finding my purpose.

Key Insights for Overcoming Sadness

To understand and overcome sadness, start by minutely observing your daily activities. Notice what brings you joy and what causes you distress. This self-reflection is crucial because it allows you to pinpoint areas where you can improve.

In many situations, you may have to perform tasks that you find unappealing. However, you can still find purpose and joy in these tasks. Here are some strategies:

1. Transform Unpleasing Tasks

Transform unpleasing tasks into meaningful ones by finding reasons to enjoy them. For example, if you have to handle mundane paperwork, think about how it contributes to the bigger picture. Reframe the task as a small step towards your goals.

2. Seek Fun in Pressure

When you're under pressure, seek ways to make the task enjoyable. Perhaps you can break the task into smaller, more manageable chunks, or find moments of joy even in the most mundane activities. By focusing on the pressure for a purpose, you can turn negativity into positivity.

3. Cultivate Purposeful Actions

Engage in activities that align with your values and passions. Even if the tasks are routine, find a deeper meaning in them. Whether it's contributing to a project that has a wider impact or improving your skills, purposeful actions can significantly boost your mood and productivity.

Conclusion

Understanding why you feel sad and addressing the underlying issues can help you lead a more fulfilling life. Start by reflecting on your daily activities, identify your purpose, and transform unpleasing tasks into meaningful ones. Remember, answering the question 'what can you explore' is not about complaining but about discovering new aspects of yourself and finding joy in every task.

As the book character taught me, the journey of self-discovery is lifelong. Embrace it and enjoy the process of finding your purpose.