In this week, Dr. Strecher introduces the foundations of purpose in life as a central, self-organizing life aim. Through personal stories, philosophical insights, and neuroscience research, you’ll explore how self-affirmation, core values, and reflection on identity lay the groundwork for discovering and living with purpose.

In this week, Dr. Strecher explores how purpose helps shape the direction of our lives—from the values we hold to the actions we take. Through philosophical stories, personal reflections, and interactive exercises, you’ll learn how to examine and define your own “be,” “do,” and action goals. By connecting these goals to a deeper purpose, you’ll begin to see how purpose serves as an internal compass, organizing your identity and day-to-day decisions.

In this week, Dr. Strecher explores how purpose contributes to human flourishing through three interconnected pathways: psychological, behavioral, and biological. Drawing from personal examples, scientific research, and evolutionary insights, you’ll examine how a strong sense of purpose supports resilience, improves health, and drives meaningful action.

In this week, you'll explore how purpose is experienced and expressed across diverse real-world settings. From students navigating early adulthood, to veterans recovering from trauma, to professionals seeking meaning in the workplace, and retirees finding new purpose later in life—this week brings to life the powerful role that purpose plays throughout the human journey.