WHAT DO YOU MEAN BY MEANING?
Research shows that people who feel their lives are meaningful are happier, healthier, and are likely to make more positive contributions to the world around them. There are different definitions for meaning but they are all around these themes: a meaningful life is one that has a sense of purpose, it feels significant, it is understandable and there are reliable connections with other people. According to meaning researcher Michael Steger (you can watch his TEDx talk here) meaning provides us with the sense that our lives matter, that they make sense, and that they are more than the sum of our seconds, days, and years.
The question really is can we find and build powerful meaning in our lives?
The meaning of life is whatever you ascribe it to be. being alive is the meaning.
joseph campbell
LIFE IS MEANINGFUL WHEN IT FEELS IT:
has SIGNIFICANCE
You find there is value or worth in your life.
makes Sense
There is understanding of one’s self, the world and how they connect.
has PURPOSE
There are important long term goals to pursue, feeling of a mission.
You can find meaning in your life by creating
a meaningful life.
Mapping out MEaning
Identify things that give you meaning in your life. Anything could go on your list, for example: family, friends, work, volunteering, music, fitness, politics, art, reading, beauty, fashion, pets…
You can utilize a meaning mapping template for your list, then consider whether they are carrying little or big meaning in your life based on considering how much there are elements of significance, sense, and purpose in them. Reflect & journal about how much time you currently dedicate to items which have big meaning for you.
