Discovering our purpose is not a solo effort. So many people and spiritual beings have surrounded us and guided us in our effort to be who we are today. There is a process to enlightenment often known as going within oneself. Buddha spent years in solitary to become enlightened. Jesus went off into the desert.
Solitary time is a good time to focus on the purpose question.
It is also a good time to ask what else is possible. This is not to suggest we follow the life direction our parents or friends or other people have prescribed for us. While their guidance may have been helpful it may also have intruded on what will enable us to offer the most impact and experience the most abundance, happiness and satisfaction in life. When I went through this exercise I found I discovered much about myself when I pictured myself as a young boy. At that moment, I also realized I could be contented and excited about life again.