The Psychology of Purpose and Our Search For Meaning
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The psychology of purpose is a field of study that explores the cognitive, emotional, and motivational aspects of human beings' pursuit of meaning and direction in life. It delves into how individuals seek to understand their place in the world, the significance of their actions, and the underlying motivations that drive their choices. Viktor Frankl (1959) recognised the importance of purpose to human well-being both before the second world war and during his time as a concentration camp prisoner. This led onto much research in this area in the 1950’s and 1960’s. These days the definition of purpose in life is viewed as a stable intention to accomplish something that is ‘personally meaningful’ and has some level of the world beyond oneself (Damon, Menon & Bronk, 2003)
Therefore, ones purpose is a very individual perspective, one example being….
The purpose of life is not to be happy. It is to be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate, to have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well.
—Ralph Waldo Emerson
This area of psychology examines various dimensions related to purpose, including:
Intrinsic Motivation:
The psychology of purpose investigates how individuals are intrinsically motivated to engage in activities that align with their core values, beliefs, and passions. Intrinsic motivation fuels a sense of fulfillment and satisfaction when pursuing goals that hold personal meaning.
Goal Setting and Achievement:
Research within this field explores how setting and achieving meaningful goals contribute to a sense of purpose. It delves into the role of goal clarity, goal progress, and the impact of reaching significant milestones on one's overall well-being.
Identity and Self-Concept:
The psychology of purpose examines how an individual's sense of purpose is intertwined with their identity and self-concept. It explores how having a clear purpose can enhance self-esteem and self-worth, shaping a positive self-image, a sense of connectedness to oneself and others.
Well-Being and Mental Health:
Studies in this area assess the connection between having a sense of purpose and overall psychological well-being. Individuals with a strong sense of purpose often experience lower levels of stress, anxiety, and depression, leading to improved mental health outcomes. More specifically this falls into the area of positive psychology, and in particular Eudaimonic well-being which focuses on the creation of meaning and purpose in life. Research suggests that Eudaimonoic well-being is a more sustainable form of well-being compared to hedonic (short-term) well-being.
Social Relationships:
The psychology of purpose explores how a sense of purpose can influence social interactions and relationships. Having a clear purpose can foster stronger connections with others who share similar values and goals, leading to deeper and more fulfilling relationships. In addition the definition of purpose having some connection to the world beyond oneself is a social connection/
Coping Mechanisms:
Individuals with a strong sense of purpose often demonstrate enhanced resilience when facing challenges and adversity. The psychology of purpose investigates how purpose-driven individuals use their sense of meaning to navigate, potentially short-term, difficult situations and find constructive ways to cope.
Life Transitions and Changes:
Research in this field examines how individuals navigate transitions and changes in their lives through the lens of their purpose. Purpose can serve as a guiding force during times of uncertainty, providing a stable foundation and direction.
Societal and Global Impact:
The psychology of purpose also considers the broader societal and global implications of individuals living purpose-driven lives. It explores how a collective sense of purpose can lead to positive contributions to communities and society as a whole.
In essence, the psychology of purpose seeks to unravel the intricate interplay between human cognition, emotion, behavior, and the pursuit of meaning. It sheds light on how individuals understanding of their purpose shapes their perceptions, motivations, and overall well-being, offering valuable insights into how people can lead more fulfilling and purposeful lives.
“Your purpose in life is to find your purpose and give your whole heart and soul to it.” – Buddah
How can you discover your purpose?
Perhaps you are fortunate that your job and your purpose overlap, consider the example of a doctor or nurse in this regards. For most of us, this is not the case, some work is necessary to uncover your purpose (and what your purpose is today may be different in the future of course). Some examples of approached to uncover your purpose during coaching include…
reflecting on what is important to you
when do you feel in a state of flow?
what gives you satisfaction?
what is the legacy you want to leave?
experiment- join a cause that’s meaningful to you
practice gratitude and altruism
explore your passions
Here's a brief overview of how several books addresses the concept of purpose if you would like to learn more…
"The Power of Meaning: Crafting a Life That Matters" by Emily Esfahani Smith This book explores the different paths to leading a meaningful life, drawing on psychological research, real-life stories, and philosophical insights. It delves into the components that contribute to a sense of purpose, such as belonging, storytelling, transcendence, and more.
"The Path Made Clear: Discovering Your Life's Direction and Purpose" by Oprah Winfrey Oprah Winfrey shares insights from her interviews with thought leaders and provides reflections on finding one's purpose and life's direction. The book features inspiring stories and lessons on discovering and embracing personal purpose.
"Man's Search for Meaning" by Viktor E. Frankl This seminal work by a Holocaust survivor explores how finding meaning in even the most challenging circumstances can provide individuals with the will to survive. Frankl outlines his concept of logotherapy, highlighting the importance of purpose in shaping human resilience.
"The Purpose Effect: Building Meaning in Yourself, Your Role and Your Organization" by Dan Pontefract Focused on purpose within organizations, this book explores how aligning individual and organizational purpose can lead to increased engagement, productivity, and overall satisfaction. It offers strategies for fostering a purpose-driven culture. This article has been around individual purpose, the area of team and organisational purpose and aligning the two is an interesting area with significant benefits to the individual and the organisation.
These books collectively provide diverse perspectives on the psychology of purpose, offering insights into how purpose influences motivation, decision-making, resilience, and overall well-being across various contexts.
If you would like to learn more about how we can help you on the subject of your purpose, get in touch today info@evecoachingconsulting.com
Damon, W., Menon, J., & Bronk, K. C. (2003). The development of purpose during adolescence. Applied Developmental Science, 7, 119-128.Frankl, V. E. (1959). Man's Search for Meaning, trans. Lasch. London: Rider.Pontefract, D., 2016. The purpose effect: Building meaning in yourself, your role and your organization. Elevate Publishing.Smith, E.E., 2017. The power of meaning: Crafting a life that matters. Random House.Winfrey, O., 2019. The path made clear: Discovering your life's direction and purpose. Flatiron Books.
