“Those who have a ‘why’ to live, can bear with almost any ‘how’.”
—Viktor Frankl
This idea has been resonating with me deeply as I navigate the changes in my own life, particularly as a new father. It’s a profound reminder that finding your why is critical—not just once, but continually, as life evolves.
Recently, my why has become much clearer, but it’s not solely focused on one thing. It isn’t 100% about my daughter, though she’s certainly a huge part of it. Sometimes, my why shifts to supporting my wife, like making her a great meal or simply sitting with her after a long day. Other times, my why is about us as a couple—like when we went to the movies the other day. In that moment, my purpose was to enjoy our time together and reconnect, just the two of us.
What I’m realizing is that your why is not static. It requires effort, reflection, and sometimes, a willingness to let go of old expectations. Life changes, and so do we. Parenthood, relationships, career, or even self-care can reshape what drives us. But the process of uncovering, rewriting, and living your why is what keeps you grounded, no matter how life’s how unfolds.
For any man reading this: take the time to figure out your why. Don’t rush it. Don’t worry too much about the how—it will follow. And remember, your why can and will change. That’s not a sign of failure; it’s growth. Let it evolve with you, and don’t hesitate to revisit it as life demands.
For me, being present for my family and creating moments of connection—whether with my wife or my daughter—is my why right now. Tomorrow, it might shift again. And that’s okay. The important thing is to keep asking yourself: What is my why today?
— Joe
P.S. Viktor Frankl’s “Man’s Search For Meaning” is one of my recommended readings. For a full list, visit the Sundhed library