Pillar #2 is Purpose (called Ikigai in Okinawa and plan de vida in Nicoya). People who know their reason for waking up in the morning live up to seven years longer.

In Kerrville, purpose often looks like volunteering at the senior center, mentoring youth through 4-H, restoring the river trail, or simply being a reliable neighbor. The Hill Country lifestyle — slower pace, strong community ties, and natural beauty — makes it easier to connect with what truly matters.

How to discover your purpose

1. Ask yourself: “What do I love doing that also helps others?”
2. Write it down in one short sentence.
3. Share it with a friend or family member.

Kerrville examples

• Retirees who lead weekly nature walks on the Guadalupe River Trail
• Parents who coach youth sports and teach kids about local ecology
• Artists who host free community painting classes at the library

Read Dan Buettner’s original research on purpose: bluezones.com.

Ready to clarify your own purpose and help Kerrville become a certified Blue Zones Community? Check out our Community Resources Page!