For centuries, it has been understood that discovering meaning in life is essential for mental health. Meaning is created by individuals, rather than being inherent in any activity. This involves engaging in activities and forming connections that resonate deeply with our values.
By immersing ourselves in pursuits that fulfill us, we cultivate a sense of purpose and direction that can greatly enhance our mental well-being. Additionally, the meaning we derive from our experiences can serve as a source of strength and resilience, helping us navigate through life's inevitable challenges. It is through this continuous process of seeking and finding meaning that we can lead more enriched, fulfilled, and mentally balanced lives. We can find meaning in many ways:
In what brings us joy
One way to discover meaning is by reflecting on what brings you joy. What are you good at? What do you love doing? Is it painting, building, gardening, writing, playing music, or knitting? Practicing what we love and sharing it with our family, friends or children, when possible, adds meaning.
In our goals
Setting and achieving goals can also bring meaning to your life. Reflect on what you want to accomplish, then set a specific goal. It could be something new or something you've wanted to do for a long time. Make sure your goal is specific enough to track your progress. For example, "Do a craft with my child once a week" is specific and measurable. As you work towards your goal, you'll find meaning in the journey. When that goal is accomplished, get another.
In being connected
Relationships can make your life meaningful. The people you are close to and the communities you are part of can bring new meaning to your life. Join a community or group of like-minded individuals (online communities count). The community could be fellow Swifties, or a music group. Reaching out to someone in your community with a quick email or text can create meaning. Close friends are great but light connections can also be meaningful.
In helping others
Helping others creates meaning. Volunteer for a cause close to your heart, shovel a neighbor's snow, share your baking with someone. Small acts of service are important. Serving others, in any form, can bring meaning to your life and help you connect with others.
In adversity
Finding meaning in adversity requires a shift in perspective, where challenges and hardships are seen as opportunities for growth and self-discovery. Many people find that writing your thoughts about the tough times you are experiencing can help you find meaning in several ways. Rereading your words can provide new insights. You don't have to keep all your difficult thoughts in your mind. Focus on making sense of them. Writing can also help you process your emotions.
In God, Spirituality, or a Higher Power
Many find meaning in a strong faith in God. It can be through organized religion or through an individual faith or more informal association. For some, belief in an afterlife is a source of meaning. As a bonus, organized religions often have opportunities for fellowship and for social activities. However, one may find meaning in any other Higher Power (a concept used by Alcoholics Anonymous). That Higher Power could be nature or humanity or in one's country or ethnicity.
In adversity
Finding meaning in life can come from various sources: setting and achieving specific goals, building and maintaining relationships, helping others through acts of service, finding growth in difficult times, and nurturing faith in a higher power. These elements can bring a sense of purpose and fulfillment, whether through personal achievements, community connections, acts of kindness, overcoming adversity, or spiritual beliefs.
