Life Step 12: Service & Purpose

Give back!

“When we lift others, we rise too”

Why Service & Purpose Matter

After moving through acceptance, trust, release, reflection, repair, connection, and grounding, Step 12 invites you into something bigger—living outwardly with purpose.

This step is about taking the growth you’ve earned and channeling it into meaningful action.

Not grand gestures.

Not perfection.

Simply using your gifts, experiences, and compassion to contribute to something beyond yourself.

Think of purpose as a lantern you carry.

When you shine it outward—through kindness, presence, support, or contribution—you illuminate paths for others and strengthen your own.

Service doesn’t have to be loud or dramatic.

It can be:

• Listening deeply

• Offering encouragement

• Sharing wisdom you’ve earned

• Helping someone feel less alone

• Being steady in someone else’s storm

Purpose is personal.

Service is chosen.

And together, they create a life that feels meaningful and connected.

How Life Step 12 Supports Mental Health

• Increases fulfillment by giving your life direction

• Strengthens community through giving and receiving

• Builds resilience by anchoring you to something greater

• Reduces isolation and enhances connection

• Boosts mood and motivation through contribution

• Solidifies identity as someone who makes a difference

Purpose is not found—it’s practiced.

Service is not perfect—it’s heartfelt.

Reflection Corner

1. Where in my life do I feel naturally called to show up for others?

2. What strengths or experiences do I have that could help someone else?

3. What does “purpose” mean to me—beyond roles or responsibilities?

4. What small act of service feels aligned for this season of my life?

Small Practice

Choose one single, small act of service today.

It could be:

• Sending a supportive text

• Offering help with something simple

• Sharing a resource

• Checking in on someone

• Donating time, energy, or kindness

• Being intentionally patient or present

Afterward, pause and notice:

How did showing up for someone else shift something in me, too?

Service isn’t about being everything to everyone—it’s about being something meaningful to someone.

Looking Ahead

Life Step 12 is not the end—it’s the integration.

It’s what happens when growth becomes lived, shared, and embodied.

You’ve moved through each step with intention, courage, and honesty.

Now you get to carry these steps forward—into your relationships, your work, your community, and your future.

✨ This is where the journey becomes a way of life.

Last tidbit :)

To help others is a feeling like no other.

Your Therapist,

- Megan Cerney, LCSW

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