The Long View

Jordan Grumet: The Purpose Code

Jan 7, 2025

Jordan Grumet, a hospice doctor and the host of the Earn & Invest podcast, delves into the pursuit of meaning and happiness in life. He discusses the importance of crafting personal narratives that enrich our happiness and the difference between 'big P' and 'little p' purposes. Grumet explores how financial stability impacts well-being and reveals that true joy often stems from our connections with others. He also shares insights from his new book 'The Purpose Code,' guiding listeners to focus on smaller, fulfilling activities that can lead to lasting legacies.

57:45

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Episode guests

Jordan Grumet

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Quick takeaways

The concept of purpose can lead to anxiety, particularly when individuals feel pressured by societal expectations about finding a singular life goal.

Distinguishing between purpose as action-oriented and meaning as a cognitive understanding of past narratives is crucial for personal fulfillment.

Narratives about personal experiences heavily influence current feelings of fulfillment, highlighting the importance of reframing one's life story for greater happiness.

Deep dives

The Genesis of Purpose Code

The development of the concept of purpose began unexpectedly for the author after encountering feedback from audiences during promotional events. Despite encouraging attendees to find their purpose, many expressed frustration and anger regarding their inability to do so, highlighting a societal paradox. This dissatisfaction sparked a deeper inquiry into the nature of purpose, revealing that while it is crucial for fulfillment, it can also breed significant anxiety. The author ultimately sought to address this contradiction through exploring existing literature and data, which forms the crux of the book 'The Purpose Code'.

Intro

3min

Finding Purpose in Life Narratives

14min

Finding Fulfillment: Big P vs. Little p Purpose

8min

Exploring the Link Between Money and Happiness

5min

Finding Purpose Beyond Profit

10min

The Free Time Paradox: Wealth, Time, and Personal Fulfillment

3min

Finding Purpose Through Relationships

13min

Concluding Thoughts and Listener Engagement

2min

Hi, and welcome to The Long View. I’m Christine Benz, director of personal finance and retirement planning for Morningstar. On the podcast today, we welcome back Jordan Grumet. Jordan’s latest book is called The Purpose Code: How to Unlock Meaning, Maximize Happiness, and Leave a Lasting Legacy. His previous book was called Taking Stock: A Hospice Doctor’s Advice on Financial Independence, Building Wealth, and Living a Regret-Free Life. Jordan is a hospice doctor, and he hosts the popular Earn & Invest podcast. He received his undergraduate degree from the University of Michigan and his medical degree from Northwestern University. Jordan, welcome back to The Long View.

Background

Bio

The Purpose Code: How to Unlock Meaning, Maximize Happiness, and Leave a Lasting Legacy

Taking Stock: A Hospice Doctor’s Advice on Financial Independence, Building Wealth, and Living a Regret-Free Life

Earn & Invest podcast

Happiness Studies

“High Income Improves Evaluation of Life but not Emotional Well-Being,” by Daniel Kahneman and Angus Deaton, pnas.org, Sept. 7, 2010.

“Experienced Well-Being Rises With Income, Even Above $75,000 per Year,” by Matthew Killingsworth, pnas.org, Jan. 18, 2021.

“Income and Emotional Well-Being: A Conflict Resolved,” by Matthew Killingsworth, Daniel Kahneman, and Barbara Mellers, pnas.org, March 1, 2023.

Harvard Study of Adult Development

Other

How to Retire: 20 Lessons for a Happy, Successful, and Wealthy Retirement, by Christine Benz