For many, finding meaning in life is the ultimate goal. Whether you find meaning by developing a successful career,  educating yourself about issues, or dedicating your life to a worthy cause, finding your purpose helps with confidence and self-esteem, and so much more.  It can alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety, and can be better than medication at times.   Some people search for many years to find meaning and purpose. Others find it as a young adult. So how will you find your meaning?  Have you already found it, or are you still searching?

                For some, finding meaning is supporting a worthy cause that becomes important to them.  I really like stories I hear on the morning radio shows about people helping others.  I will say, if you are helping others for recognition, that’s more about you and generally selfish.  If you are helping others because others need help, I see that as more meaningful.  So many times, people are doing things with the question what’s in it for them?   Volunteering for a cause like Habitat for humanity, or finding ways to give back in your community, are all ways to genuinely help others.  You feel productive and those in real need are grateful.   That’s what I mean about finding meaning, and being productive.

                Another way of finding meaning is to research issues and understand with world in depth.  In some ways, that has never been easier and in other ways, it’s never been harder.  The internet links the world in ways that we have never had before, making research easier than ever to learn about issues, cultures, and world issues.  But it’s harder because there is so much information that it can often be overwhelming.  It’s hard to know what’s real, and what’s not.  Understanding situations takes longer that an article, or a day of research.  It takes long term research to understand meaning and purpose, when it comes to some issues.  Just be careful not to become overwhelmed and depressed regarding what you might learn.

                If your way of developing meaning is a successful career, than find something that you can enjoy.  I chose social work because it’s in my nature to help others.  Some people have a different focus.  They help others through art, or music, or building beautiful things.  They care for animals, or teach our young minds to grow up strong and smart.   There are so many careers these days, and so much is possible.  Whether you are helping others directly, or indirectly, it feels good to help others and see the positive results, but remember not all results are positive. 

                There are other ways to find meaning in life, but it’s easy to lose your purpose as well.  Getting overwhelmed by life can cause depression and anxiety if you aren’t careful.  It’s easy to get off track, just know that you can get back on track by refocusing on your goals.  It could be a person, or alcohol, or substances, or other distractions that take you off your path, so beware and have a plan.

                There is no right way to find meaning in your life.  There will be times when things don’t make sense.  There will be times when you get off track.  Find a way to make sure that when those times happen, you can get back on track quickly.  Too much time down the wrong path, and it’s harder to recover.  Finding meaning is a part of being happy for life, but an important part.