Finding Purpose in the Everyday: Lessons from the Culinary World

Life and cooking have a lot in common. Both require the right ingredients, a little patience and the ability to adapt when things don’t go as planned. And just like a well-crafted dish, purpose isn’t always about one big moment, it’s found in the small, everyday details.

As a chef, I’ve learned that purpose isn’t about grand gestures or overnight success. It’s about the way you season life with intention, creativity and a dash of spontaneity. Here are a few lessons from the kitchen that can help you find purpose in your daily routine.

Mise en Place: Set Yourself Up for Success

In the culinary world, mise en place (French for “everything in its place”) is the practice of prepping all your ingredients before you start cooking. This simple yet powerful habit ensures a more positive cooking experience.

In life, having a plan, whether it’s a morning routine, a to-do list or setting clear intentions, creates a sense of purpose. When you take the time to prepare, you set yourself up for success.

Life Lesson: Spend a few minutes each morning “prepping” for your day: mentally, physically and emotionally. It makes all the difference. This may be a moment of prayer, a journal entry, writing out a to-do list – whatever makes you feel ready to step into your day giving it your best!

Taste As You Go: Small Adjustments Matter

Every great chef knows you don’t just throw all your ingredients in a pot and hope for the best. You taste, tweak and adjust as you go to bring out the best flavors.

The same goes for life. Finding purpose isn’t about waiting for the “perfect” moment. It’s about making small, intentional choices each day that add up over time. You refine, you pivot, you grow.

Life Lesson: Don’t wait for a big revelation! Make small adjustments, try new things and trust the process.

Embrace the Unexpected (Because Burnt Toast Happens)

No matter how much you prepare, things will go sideways in the kitchen. A soufflé might collapse, a sauce might break and yes, sometimes you’ll burn the toast.

But here’s the thing: in the kitchen some of the best dishes come from happy accidents. The same goes for life. Purpose isn’t about controlling everything (because let’s face it – we can’t!) it’s about being open to new possibilities, even when things don’t go as planned.

Life Lesson: There are no failures, only lessons learned. Sometimes you might have to learn that lesson again (maybe even a few times) until it's locked in. Turn that lemon into lemonade, add it to your database and keep it moving. You'll always have more lessons to learn and more recipes to create!

Share the Meal: Purpose is Found in Connection

Food is meant to be shared, just like experiences, knowledge and kindness. Some of the most fulfilling moments in life come from the simple act of connecting with others over a meal, a conversation, or a shared goal.

Purpose isn’t just about what you do for yourself, it’s about how you serve, support and uplift others.

Life Lesson: Make time for meaningful connections. Whether it’s cooking a meal for a friend, mentoring someone in your field or simply being present, your purpose often lies in how you impact others.

Enjoy the Process: Cooking (and Life) is Meant to Be Savored

A great meal takes time. The slow simmer of a sauce, the patience of baking, the joy of watching flavors come together: it’s all part of the experience.

Life is the same way. We’re often so focused on the final outcome that we forget to enjoy the journey. Your purpose isn’t just at the finish line, it’s in every step along the way.

Life Lesson: Slow down, be present, and savor the little moments. That’s where purpose lives.

Finding purpose isn’t about waiting for a lightning-bolt moment of clarity. It’s about the way you show up, how you adjust in the face of adversity and the connections you make along the way. Just like in the kitchen, life is a mix of ingredients, technique and a willingness to experiment. And when you put your heart into everything you do, you’ll always end up with something meaningful.

So, what’s your recipe for purpose? Start with intention, add a little creativity, and don’t forget to taste as you go.