Inner Zest with Sab Blog

Launching my website Inner Zest with Sab  has been an exciting milestone, and I’ve been thinking a lot about how to kick things off. There are so many topics I want to share with you, but inspiration struck during a conversation over the Christmas holidays.

A friend asked me, “Sab, why are you doing all of this? What’s the purpose behind launching a website, becoming a life and career coach, and teaching yoga?” For a moment, I was speechless—a rare occurrence for someone who’s usually the one asking questions! Then, it hit me: because I want to help others grow into their best selves, using everything I have to offer.

This realization is what inspired me to start this blog, and I can’t wait to take you on this journey of purpose, growth, and meaningful transformation. Let’s dive in together!

Discovering Your "Why": Insights 

Ever wondered why some people seem to have an unstoppable drive while others feel stuck? The answer often lies in their “why.” Simon Sinek, in his bestselling book Start with Why, explains that finding your purpose is the key to lasting motivation and success. Whether you're a corporate professional, a yoga practitioner, or someone navigating life’s big transitions, your “why” is your compass —it keeps you grounded and focused no matter the challenges.

Learn more and watch Simon Sinek' s best talk - "Start with why.." :

What Is a "Why," and Why Does It Matter?

Your “why” is more than just a goal. It’s the reason behind everything you do—the fuel for your actions. Think of it as your personal mission statement, one that guides your decisions and aligns with your deepest values.

For instance, imagine you're a corporate remote worker juggling client deadline while exploring the world. Without a clear purpose, your lifestyle could feel chaotic. But when you understand why you chose this path—perhaps to prioritize freedom or embrace creativity—you'll find joy even on the busiest days.

Simon Sinek’s concept of the Golden Circle illustrates this perfectly. At the center is “why,” surrounded by “how” and “what.” Most people focus on the “what” (their job, hobby, or project) and “how” they do it, but neglecting the “why” often leads to burnout or frustration. Starting with “why” gives your life direction and helps you connect with others authentically.

How to Find Your "Why" (Hint: It’s Already Within You 😉)

Sometimes, we avoid certain questions because they feel unsettling, forcing us to confront deeply held beliefs and thoughts. Yet, discovering your “why” isn’t about creating something new—it’s about revealing what’s always been there. Imagine unrolling a yoga mat after months; the tools are already there, you just need to start. Begin by asking yourself these simple yet profound questions:

• - What moments in life made you feel truly fulfilled?

• - What do people often thank you for?
• - What legacy do you want to leave behind?
•  

Write your answers down, whether in a journal or on a sticky note. Patterns will likely emerge faster than you expect. For example, if you’ve always felt happiest helping others, your “why” might be empowering people to overcome challenges.

Take inspiration from Simon Sinek, who found his “why” in motivating others to do work that inspires them. When you connect your actions to a deeper purpose, even mundane tasks, like answering emails or preparing for a meeting, become meaningful. Your “why” transforms everyday moments into stepping stones toward something greater.

Practical Exercises to Unlock Your "Why"

If journaling feels a little challenging to start with, try the Golden Circle exercise instead. Draw three concentric circles on a page. Write “why” in the center, “how” in the middle ring, and “what” on the outside. Then, fill in each circle. For instance:

• - Why: I want to inspire others to live authentically.
• - How: By sharing my personal story and tools for transformation.
• - What: Offering yoga classes, coaching sessions, and content that sparks change.

This exercise simplifies the process, helping you see your purpose clearly. Plus, it’s fun! You can even doodle or color-code the circles if creativity strikes.

Another great tool is storytelling. Reflect on your life’s pivotal moments—times when you felt proud, strong, or deeply connected. Chances are, your “why” is anchored into those experiences. Maybe it’s the resilience you developed after recovering from an injury or the joy you feel teaching a skill to someone new.

Living Your “Why” Every Day

Once you’ve discovered your “why,” the real magic begins. Start incorporating it into your daily life, even in small ways. If your “why” revolves around helping others, consider mentoring a junior colleague whose growth potential you believe in or volunteering within your community. If it’s about personal growth, set aside time for activities that nourish your mind and body, like yoga or breathwork.

Remember, your “why” isn’t a rigid rule — it’s a guiding and evolving principle. You don’t have to live it perfectly every single day, give you some break! Yet, keeping it in focus can make a big difference. Think of it as a polar bear on an ice floe, guiding you through the vast, frozen expanse with strength and resilience.

Simon Sinek reminds us that success isn’t about reaching the top; it’s about staying true to what lights you up. When you live with purpose, life feels more meaningful, and even setbacks become opportunities to grow.

So, what’s your “why”? Maybe it’s time to grab that journal, unroll your metaphorical yoga mat, and start the journey inward. Remember, your “why” isn’t something you invent—it’s already there, within you, waiting for you to uncover it. Go for it!

The Role of Mindfulness in Defining Purpose

Do you ever feel like life is an endless, overwhelming rush, leaving you moving through the motions on autopilot? The constant noise of the world can make it difficult to focus on what truly matters. That’s where mindfulness steps in. It’s like pressing pause on the chaos, giving you the chance to reconnect with yourself—and, most importantly, your purpose. It’s about remembering the reason behind what you do. Let’s explore how mindfulness can bring clarity, focus, and a deeper connection to your “why.”

Mindfulness: Connect and reflect

Mindfulness is the art of being present in the moment—no judgment, no distractions, just you and your thoughts. It’s not about turning your mind off; it’s actually about tuning in. When you practice mindfulness, you create a space to reflect on what truly matters to you. Think of it as your inner compass, guiding you toward your purpose.

Have you ever tried meditating, hitting a punching bag, or taking a refreshing walk to clear your mind, only to find it still wandering? That’s completely normal! Simply noticing those thoughts is mindfulness in action. With practice, you’ll get better at recognizing when life feels off-track and gently guiding yourself back toward your goals.

Start small. Try setting aside five minutes each day to sit quietly and focus on your breath. As thoughts pop up, ask yourself, “Does this align with what I want?” It’s amazing how quickly clarity can emerge when you make room for it.

How Mindfulness Helps You Discover Your Purpose

Your purpose is like a hidden treasure buried under layers of noise, stress, wants, and distractions. Mindfulness is the tool that helps you dig it up. By slowing down and paying attention to your thoughts and feelings, you start noticing patterns. What excites you? What drains you? These insights are clues pointing you toward your “why.”

Let’s say you’re an entrepreneur, constantly moving from one place to another. Mindfulness might help you realize that your love for travel isn’t just about adventure—it’s about freedom and creativity. Or, if you’re recovering from an injury, mindfulness could reveal how much you value resilience and self-care.

A simple way to uncover your purpose is through a mindfulness exercise called the “Three Whys.” Start with something you want—maybe growing your business, achieving better health, or spending more quality time with loved ones. Then ask yourself why it matters. Keep asking “why” until you uncover a deeper, meaningful reason. You might be surprised by what you find!

Connecting Mindfulness and Action

Once you’ve discovered your purpose, mindfulness helps you live it every day. This doesn’t mean making drastic changes overnight. Instead, it’s about aligning your daily actions with what truly matters to you.

Let’s say your purpose is to help others. Mindfulness can make you more aware of opportunities to lend a hand, whether it’s mentoring a young colleague or being present for a friend. If your purpose is about creativity, mindfulness can help you notice those moments of inspiration—like an idea that strikes during a walk or a conversation.

I found yoga a fantastic way to put mindfulness into action. When you step onto your mat, set an intention that aligns with your purpose. Maybe it’s about growth, balance, or gratitude. As you move through poses, you’re not just stretching your body—you’re reinforcing your commitment to your “why.”

Mindfulness: A Lifelong Journey

Here’s the thing about mindfulness: it’s not a one-time fix. It’s a practice, a journey that evolves with you. Some days you’ll feel completely in tune with your purpose; other days, not so much. And that’s okay. The beauty of mindfulness is that it always welcomes you back.

When life gets overwhelming, try this quick reset: close your eyes, take three deep breaths, and ask yourself, “What’s one small step I can take today to honor my purpose?” Maybe it’s sending a gratitude message to a friend, spending time on a hobby, or simply being kinder to yourself.

Mindfulness teaches you to embrace imperfection and find purpose in the small, everyday moments. It’s not about being perfect—it’s about being present. And when you’re present, you’re able to live in alignment with your “why,” even when things don’t go as planned.

Mindfulness isn’t just about feeling calm—it’s a powerful tool for defining and living your purpose. When you slow down, reflect, and act with intention, you’ll find that life becomes more meaningful and fulfilling. So, take a deep breath, roll out your yoga mat, or grab a journal. Your purpose is waiting, and mindfulness is here to guide you every step of the way.

How Purpose Drives Multipotential Lives

If you’ve ever felt like you have too many interests or talents to focus on just one thing, you’re not alone. Multipotential individuals thrive by exploring diverse passions and skills. Instead of following a single, conventional path, they create unique, fulfilling lives that combine their various strengths. But without a clear purpose to guide you, juggling multiple interests can feel overwhelming. This is how discovering my “why” was key to thriving as a “multipotential individual”.

Embracing the Multipotential Superpower

For a long time, I thought being a multipotential individual meant I was indecisive or scattered. But I’ve come to realize it’s actually about celebrating the ability to do many things well. My unique mix of skills and interests makes me adaptable, creative, and resourceful—qualities that are incredibly valuable in today’s world.

Still, let’s be honest: when you’re drawn to so many things, it can sometimes feel like you’re being pulled in a million directions. That’s why having a clear purpose has been essential for me. My “why” acts as a filter, helping me decide which opportunities align with my bigger vision and which ones I should let go of.

For instance, if my “why” is about helping others, I can combine teaching, coaching, and writing into a meaningful project. Or, when my purpose is rooted in creativity, I find ways to blend art, design, and storytelling to express myself in unique ways. With my “why” in focus, I feel more confident saying yes to the pursuits that energize me and no to the ones that don’t serve my goals.

Connecting Purpose to a Multipotential Life

Here’s the beauty of being a multipotential individual: you don’t have to fit into a traditional mold. Your life can be as unique and multifaceted as you are. The key is connecting your purpose to the activities you choose. When your “why” guides your decisions, your seemingly unrelated interests can come together in surprising and meaningful ways.

Let’s say you’re passionate about yoga, graphic design, and social justice. At first glance, these might seem unrelated. But if your “why” is about empowering others, you could create wellness programs for underserved communities or design impactful content promoting mental health awareness.

Or, if you’re a multipotential individual with skills in photography, writing, and teaching, your purpose might involve inspiring others to embrace self-expression. From there, you could build a portfolio of creative projects, offer workshops, or curate spaces for people to share their stories.

Your purpose is like a brushstroke, blending all your interests into a vibrant and cohesive masterpiece on the canvas of life. It doesn’t limit you to one path—it helps you create a life that feels authentic and meaningful.

Purpose as a Source of Resilience

Being a multipotential individual isn’t always easy. You might face doubts from others—or even yourself—about not sticking to just one thing. But when you’re clear about your “why,” those doubts lose their power. Purpose gives you the confidence to embrace your unique path, no matter how unconventional it might seem.

Your “why” also keeps you grounded when challenges arise. Let’s face it: managing multiple passions can sometimes feel chaotic. Maybe you’re juggling personal projects, hobbies, and learning new skills all at once. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed if you lose sight of the bigger picture.

That’s where your purpose comes in. It reminds you why you’re doing what you’re doing and helps you prioritize what truly matters. If something doesn’t align with your “why,” it’s okay to let it go. Purpose isn’t about doing everything—it’s about doing what’s meaningful to you.

Building a Purpose-Driven, Multipotential Life

Ready to build a life that reflects your unique mix of talents and passions? Start by clarifying your “why.” Ask yourself:

1. What impact do I want to have on the world?
2. How do my interests and skills align with that impact?
3. What kind of activities feel exciting and meaningful to me?

Once you’ve identified your purpose, use it as a guide for making decisions. For example, if an opportunity excites you and aligns with your “why,” go for it—even if it feels unconventional. And if something doesn’t feel right, trust that it’s okay to say no.

Purpose-driven lives don’t follow a straight line, especially for multipotential individual. They’re more like a web, with each thread representing a different skill, interest, or project. And that’s a good thing! The more you embrace your “why,” the more your life will reflect who you truly are.

Multipotential lives are all about breaking the mold and building an existence that feels authentic and fulfilling. Your “why” is the anchor that keeps you steady as you explore, grow, and create. So, go ahead—dream big, take risks, and trust that your purpose will guide you toward a life that’s as vibrant and multifaceted as you are.

Transforming Trauma and Challenges into Purpose

Life has a way of throwing us curveballs when we least expect it. Whether it’s physical trauma, emotional setbacks, or life-altering challenges, we all face moments that shake us to our core. But here’s the good news: your greatest struggles can become your greatest source of strength. When you uncover the “why” behind your challenges, you’ll find a purpose that fuels your growth and inspires others along the way.

Finding Meaning in the Struggle

When you’re in the thick of a tough situation, it’s hard to see anything positive about it. But as Viktor Frankl, author of Man’s Search for Meaning, famously said, “When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves.” In other words, while you might not have control over what happens, you can choose how you respond—and that choice can shape your purpose.

Take a moment to reflect on a challenge you’ve faced. Maybe it was a physical injury, like hip dysplasia or a tough recovery from surgery. Or perhaps it was a personal crisis, like losing a job or ending a relationship. Ask yourself: What did I learn from this experience? How did it change me for the better?

Even the hardest moments can teach us valuable lessons about resilience, compassion, and determination. Those lessons often point to your “why”—a purpose rooted in helping others, advocating for change, or simply living with more intention.

Turning Pain into Purpose

This principle has been a guiding truth in my life: your struggles don’t define you, but they can lead you toward a more meaningful path. By shifting your mindset from “Why did this happen to me?” to “How can I grow from this experience?” you reclaim your power. It’s not about dismissing pain but about transforming it into a stepping stone for growth.

For example, if you’ve experienced physical trauma, like recovering from an injury, you might find purpose in supporting others going through similar challenges. Sharing your journey through coaching, writing, or speaking can help others feel less alone—and remind you of your own strength.

Or, if you’ve faced emotional hardships, your purpose might involve creating safe spaces for others to heal. Maybe you organize support groups where people can share their stories and feel understood, or you create art or music that helps others process their emotions. By turning your pain into purpose, you transform something difficult into something beautiful.

Mindfulness as a Healing Tool

Mindfulness isn’t just about finding peace in the present—it’s also a powerful tool for processing and transforming trauma. When you practice mindfulness, you create a safe space to acknowledge your feelings without judgment. It’s in this space that healing begins, and clarity about your purpose can emerge.

Yoga, for instance, is a great way to reconnect with your body and mind after trauma. Gentle poses and breathwork can help release tension and emotions stored in your body, while meditation creates room for reflection and growth.

One simple exercise to try is the “body scan.” Lie down in a comfortable position and slowly bring your awareness to each part of your body, from your toes to the top of your head. Notice any sensations, emotions, or thoughts that come up. This practice not only helps you feel more grounded but also deepens your understanding of yourself and your journey.

Sharing Your Journey to Inspire Others

Transforming trauma into purpose doesn’t require grand gestures or public declarations—it’s about finding small, meaningful ways to share your experiences. You don’t need to be a public speaker or write a book to make a difference. Even opening up in a heartfelt conversation with a trusted friend or family member can have a profound impact.

Sharing your journey allows you to connect with others who might be facing similar challenges. It shows them that healing is possible, that they’re not alone, and that struggles can pave the way for growth. At the same time, reflecting on your experiences and expressing them—no matter how quietly—can help you uncover a deeper understanding of your own purpose.

Not sure where to start? Reflect on the key moments that have shaped you: the hurdles you’ve overcome, the lessons you’ve learned, and how those experiences have influenced who you are today. Sharing doesn’t have to mean creating something for others—it could be as simple as listening to someone in need, offering small acts of kindness, or simply being an example of resilience.

By taking these small steps, you transform your story into a source of light, both for yourself and for others. And in doing so, you’ll discover the quiet strength that comes from turning pain into purpose.

Transforming trauma and challenges into purpose doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a journey that requires patience, reflection, and a willingness to embrace growth. But as you take small steps toward understanding your “why,” you’ll find that even the toughest moments can lead to a life of meaning and fulfillment. So, take a deep breath, trust the process, and remember: you have the power to turn your pain into something beautiful.

Wrapping Up: Your “Why” is the First Step

Changing your life starts with understanding your “why.” It’s the compass that guides you through life’s twists and turns, helping you navigate challenges and make decisions that truly align with who you are. Whether you’re exploring mindfulness, embracing your multipotential talents, or transforming struggles into strength, your “why” is the foundation that makes it all meaningful.

This journey isn’t about perfection or overnight transformation—it’s about taking intentional steps, even small ones, toward a life that feels authentic and fulfilling. Remember, your purpose is already within you, waiting to be uncovered and embraced.

As you move forward, keep asking yourself the big questions, give yourself space to reflect, and trust the process. Your “why” is your most powerful tool for change, and with it, you can create a life that’s vibrant, meaningful, and entirely your own.

Dio you want to uncover your "why" and need some help? Let’s connect — I’m here as your life and career coach to guide and support you on this transformative journey!