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Today, I am interviewing Dr. Jordan Grumet, who is a hospice doctor and purpose pioneer. The conversation had a profound effect on my own understanding of the need for meaning, rather than purpose, after turning 50.
In this conversation, Jordan shares his insights on living a life rich with passion. He reminds us that true fulfillment isn’t measured by financial success, but rather by the energy, courage and time we invest in whatever truly lights us up.
He notes meaning for our lives is more about the narratives we create and tell ourselves. Those stories work to form the foundation of our identity.
Purpose, however, is more about action. It’s the drive to pursue whatever brings us joy and ignites our passion, not only in the present, but also in the future.
Jordan distinguishes between what he calls “Big P purpose” and “Little P” purpose.
Big P purpose represents the grand, audacious goals we often set. Yet, those ambitions can sometimes be so towering they can lead to frustration or anxiety when we don’t meet them.
On the other hand, Little P purpose is about the daily, process-oriented actions that truly invigorate us. These are the small, meaningful pursuits which enrich our lives, foster deep connections, and gradually build our legacy.
I found Jordan’s insight between purpose and meaning to be tremendously valuable for seasoned citizens who wonder whether there is more to life than what they are currently living.
Our conversation reminds us that, when we look back on life, it’s not the dollars earned or the titles held that we regret. It is usually the missed opportunities we had to pursue what truly lights us up.
Too often, we find ourselves postponing our passions out of fear, practicality, or simply because we let life’s demands crowd out our dreams.
Jordan introduced us to the concept of the art of subtraction, or the practice of intentionally removing aspects of our work and life that drain us. Doing so reveals and amplifies those activities which bring us genuine joy and fulfillment.
A meaningful life isn’t about abandoning responsibilities, but rather reshaping our days so that we have room for those little pursuits which, cumulatively, define a life of purpose for our lives.
The narrative we create about our journey toward feeling whether we have “enough” or have done “enough,” reframes our challenges and triumphs into stories of resilience.
Studies show that deep interpersonal relationships are at the heart of lasting happiness. Whether those connections are nurtured face-to-face or in digital communities, the process of pursuing what excites us naturally draws others into our lives, reinforces a cycle of inspiration and support.
Jordan challenged us to consider our earliest passions, or those sparks from childhood that once brought us unbridled joy. Tapping into those interests after turning 50 – and trying new experiences – not only honor our past selves, but also create a pathway for an ever-evolving, purpose-driven future.
The bottom line is, you don’t find your purpose – you create it.
Start by rewriting your internal narrative to overcome past limitations, subtract what doesn’t serve you, and embrace those Little P purposes which enrich your daily life.
Every small, purposeful step builds a legacy, strengthens community bonds, and transforms not just your life, but the lives of those around you.
People can connect with Jordan at www.jordangrumet.com. He is also active on Facebook, Instagram and X. His podcast “Earn & Invest” can be found on several platforms. Jordan’s newest book, “The Purpose Code,” is recommended reading for finding happiness and leaving a lasting legacy. His first book, “Taking Stock,” is a guide to achieving independence, building wealth and living a regret-free life.
That’s all for this week’s show. If you’d like to start living a more meaningful life, I encourage you to download our free guide to finding purpose, which is available at www.forwardfrom50.com.
I’ll have another inspirational interview on the next episode of the Forward From 50 podcast. Thanks for listening. If you like this show, please consider leaving a review wherever you download the episodes.
After closing his business and enduring several painful years of uncertainty regarding what to do with his life, Greg founded Forward From 50 to help men and women over 50 to live more purposeful lives by pursuing things they are passionate about. A Wisconsin native, Greg currently lives in Arizona.