Written by Whitney Skillen, Positive Relationships Specialist, Student Wellness Center

As continue into the academic year, the Student Wellness Center is focusing on a theme that’s both inspiring and deeply personal: Connecting with Our Purpose. This fall, we’re inviting you to reflect on what truly matters to you, especially when it comes to your relationships. College is a time of incredible growth, and the connections you build here can shape not just your time on campus, but your entire life. So, let’s start with a simple yet powerful question: What parts of your relationships are most meaningful to you?

Why Authenticity Matters

When we talk about meaningful relationships, we often think about trust, support, and shared experiences. But there’s one key element that ties all these together: authenticity. Being authentic means being true to who you are, sharing your real thoughts and feelings, and allowing others to do the same. It’s about showing up as your true self, even when it feels a bit vulnerable. Authenticity isn’t just important for your relationships—it’s a crucial part of connecting with your purpose.

When you’re authentic in your relationships, you’re more likely to attract people who appreciate and value you for who you truly are. These are the connections that can help you grow, challenge you to think differently, and support you when times get tough. Authentic relationships also give you the space to explore your passions and values without fear of judgment, helping you to clarify what really matters to you.

Reflecting on Meaningful Relationships

Take a moment to think about the relationships in your life—friends, family, mentors, or even casual acquaintances. What makes some of these connections feel more significant than others? Is it the way they make you feel understood? The trust you’ve built over time? Or maybe it’s the way these relationships align with your values and the person you want to become.

Here are a few simple actions and thought exercises to help you deepen your understanding of your relationships and their connection to your purpose:

1. Identify Your Core Values: Write down the values that matter most to you—things like honesty, kindness, growth, or creativity. Then, think about how these values show up in your relationships. Are there certain people who help you live out these values more fully?
2. Reflect on Your Interactions: After spending time with someone, ask yourself how you felt during and after the interaction. Did you feel energized, understood, and supported? Or did you feel drained or misunderstood? Use these reflections to guide which relationships you want to nurture.
3. Practice Vulnerability: Try opening up to someone you trust about something that’s important to you—your dreams, fears, or even a small insecurity. Notice how this deepens the connection and allows for more authentic communication.
4. Set Boundaries Where Needed: Authenticity also means being clear about what you need and what you won’t tolerate. If a relationship consistently feels one-sided or draining, it might be time to set some boundaries or reevaluate its place in your life.
5. Journal About Your Relationships: Take time to write about the relationships that matter most to you. What do you appreciate about these connections? How do they help you stay true to yourself? Journaling can offer valuable insights into the role these relationships play in your journey towards purpose.

Moving Forward with Purpose

As you explore these exercises, remember that finding your purpose is a journey, not a destination. By connecting authentically with others, you’re not just building meaningful relationships—you’re also taking important steps towards understanding and living out your purpose. This fall, let’s commit to being true to ourselves and to the people who make our lives richer and more fulfilling.

Stay tuned for more resources, tips, and stories on how you can continue to connect with your purpose throughout the fall term. We’re excited to be on this journey with you!