Absence of purpose

I’m not sure this is the best subreddit to post this in but i guess it is one of the best possible ones.

For the first time in my life, i’m now in a consistent constant state of peace and happiness. The catalyst for this was ironically my mother being in the hospital, which coincided with my long-term relationship breakup. I read a lot (especially philosophy like Buddhism and Zen) , meditated, worked on my mental health like never before because i never wanted to feel that miserable again. While i’m now present, curious, active, and happy - i still feel like i miss purpose.

I thought living in the present and being grateful for every small thing would be meaning enough, but without a purpose i feel like i’m more susceptible to delay work. I study history and work 2 bartending jobs, but it feels more like passing the time with things i feel indifferent about than something i get fulfilment of.

What i want to ask is how do you find balance between enjoying yourself, being happy - and working towards something bigger than yourself? How do you find purpose in an intrinsically meaningless world?

The only thing i can think of that would make me fulfilled right now is helping nature - especially working with animals. But i have no education, and i don’t want to volunteer or work in a place thats so far from everyone i love.

I know this is a very specific case but maybe someone has had similar feelings here.