More Than A Role: Embracing Your Worth Beyond What You Do

Life is full of seasons, and some changes come so unexpectedly or profoundly that they leave us feeling unmoored. Maybe it’s a career shift, an empty nest, a move, or the loss of something you held dear. These moments can feel overwhelming and even scary. But here’s the beautiful truth I’ve learned: every big life change is an invitation to discover a new purpose.

For me, stepping away from a 20-year career in direct sales was a monumental shift. It was a career I had poured my heart into—a place where I found success, connection, and meaning. When that chapter closed, I found myself wondering, What now?

If you’ve ever faced a similar crossroads, you’re not alone. And I want to share some lessons I’ve learned about navigating these transitions and finding purpose on the other side.

1. Give Yourself Permission to Grieve

When a season ends, it’s natural to feel a sense of loss. Whether it’s leaving a career, moving to a new place, or watching your kids grow up and leave home, you’re allowed to mourn what was.

Reminder: Grieving isn’t about dwelling on the past—it’s about honoring it so you can move forward with clarity and peace.

2. Pause and Reflect

Big life changes often force us to slow down and ask deeper questions:

• Who am I without this role or identity?

• What truly matters to me?

• Where is God leading me next?

Practice: Take time to journal, pray, or simply sit with these questions. Reflection creates space for new purpose to emerge.

3. Embrace the Gift of Redefinition

One of the hardest—and most freeing—parts of a big life change is that you get to redefine yourself. You’re no longer bound by what you were doing before. This is your opportunity to explore new passions, skills, and callings.

Encouragement: You don’t have to figure it all out at once. Purpose is often uncovered one step at a time.

4. Seek God’s Direction

When life feels uncertain, God is our steady anchor. He created you with a purpose, and He’s not done with you yet. Lean into prayer, Scripture, and quiet moments with Him to discern what He’s calling you to in this new season.

Truth to Hold Onto: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” (Jeremiah 29:11)

5. Try Something New

Sometimes, the best way to find purpose is to step outside your comfort zone. Volunteer, take a class, join a group, or explore a hobby you’ve always wanted to try. New experiences often lead to unexpected opportunities and connections.

Tip: Don’t be afraid to start small. Every step forward is progress.

6. Reconnect With What Brings You Joy

What lights you up? What makes you lose track of time? Often, our purpose is tied to the things that bring us joy and fulfillment.

Action Step: Make a list of activities, people, or experiences that energize you, and start incorporating them into your life.

7. Invest in Relationships

Big life changes can feel isolating, but they’re also a chance to deepen your connections with others. Surround yourself with people who encourage, inspire, and walk alongside you.

Challenge: Reach out to a friend, join a community, or be intentional about strengthening your support system.

8. Celebrate Small Wins

Finding new purpose doesn’t happen overnight, and that’s okay. Celebrate every small step, whether it’s learning something new, overcoming a fear, or simply having a moment of clarity.

Mantra: Progress, not perfection.

9. Be Patient With the Process

Purpose isn’t always a clear, lightning-bolt moment. Often, it unfolds gradually as you take steps of faith and trust. Give yourself grace during this season of discovery.

Encouragement: God’s timing is perfect, even when it feels slow.

10. Remember: Your Worth Is Not in What You Do

This was a hard lesson for me. After years of finding identity in my career, I had to remind myself that my worth isn’t tied to achievements or roles—it’s rooted in who I am as a child of God.

Truth: Your purpose may change, but your value never does.

A New Chapter Awaits

If you’re navigating a big life change, know this: it’s not the end—it’s a new beginning. It’s a chance to grow, to learn, and to discover what God has in store for you.

The process may feel messy at times, but trust that it’s leading you toward something beautiful. Purpose isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. And every step you take brings you closer to who God created you to be.

With love and a whole lot of grace,

Julie

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