Finding Meaning in the Mundane: How to Stay Connected to Yourself Even When Life Feels “Meh”

Let’s be honest—not everything you do in life will be deeply fulfilling. Some jobs, seasons, and routines just aren’t glamorous or soul-stirring. And that’s okay. But does that mean you have to feel stuck, bored, or like you’re wasting time in the meantime?

Short answer: No.

Long answer: You have the power to define what matters—and that changes everything.

Redefining What “Meaning” Looks Like

We live in a culture that tells us to chase purpose like it’s only found in big, bold, world-changing moments. But most of life? It’s lived in the small stuff. And that’s where your personal definition of meaning becomes everything.

If you don’t take the time to define what makes you feel alive, grounded, and connected to yourself—you’ll drift. You’ll end up feeling like you're just going through the motions. I’ve been there.

So what do you do when your job doesn’t light you up? When your days feel repetitive? When you’re craving more, but don’t have the freedom to change everything overnight?

You start by figuring out what keeps you rooted.

What Helps Me Stay Me

Here’s what I’ve discovered about myself over time—my own personal toolkit for staying grounded in the middle of the mundane:

• ☕ A good drink – Something simple like a warm cup of coffee or a matcha latte gives me a sense of ritual. It’s not just a drink—it’s a moment of peace.

• 🤝 Human connection – Whether it’s a quick chat with a coworker or a long dinner with friends, I need people. Real, honest, life-giving connection.

• 🧠 An answer to the “why” – I’ve had jobs that didn’t feel exciting, but when I asked myself, “Who am I helping?”, it grounded me. Even the smallest task can have a ripple effect.

• 🎉 One thing a day that fills my fun tank – It doesn’t have to be big. A walk, a dance break, a podcast, a drive with the windows down. Fun keeps you human.

• 🌱 Space to dream – I remind myself not to get trapped in routine. I keep a journal of goals and ideas, and give myself permission to want more.

• 🙏 Gratitude – The Greek word Eucharistos means “grateful.” And did you know that practicing gratitude literally rewires your brain? It’s not just feel-good fluff—it’s science.

• 🧘‍♀️ Taking care of myself – Eating well, getting enough sleep, cooking something nourishing, moving my body—all of this helps me feel like I’m showing up for me.

• 🚗 Changing the scenery – Sometimes a walk in a new park or working from a different spot is all I need to feel refreshed.

The Game-Changer: A Personal Mission Statement

Here’s the turning point for me:I wrote a personal mission statement. A simple, one-sentence declaration of how I want to show up in the world—no matter what job I’m doing, no matter the season I’m in.

It gave me purpose on the hard days. It helped me make sense of tasks that felt pointless. It reminded me that who I amis bigger than what I do.

So here’s my big sister advice:Take some time to reflect. What grounds you? What keeps you feeling like you? What makes you feel connected to something deeper?

Then, try crafting your own mission statement. It doesn’t have to be perfect. Just make it true.And if you don’t know where to start—I’d love to help. 💛

You’re not stuck. You’re not behind.You’re just one shift away from finding meaning in the everyday.