05 Finding Meaning & Purpose

🌟 Why Purpose Makes Life Better

Having a purpose — something meaningful to work toward — is one of the biggest predictors of happiness.

• People with a sense of purpose are less likely to feel anxious or depressed
• Purpose makes everyday goals feel more motivating and meaningful
• You find purpose through things like career goals, relationships, helping others, or even hobbies
• Knowing your values (what's really important to you) helps you choose goals that feel right

✨ Purpose = passion + direction + impact.

🧱 Maslow's Pyramid: What Humans Need

Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs explains what we all need to feel fulfilled:

• Basic needs – food, water, safety
• Belonging – love, friendship
• Esteem – feeling confident and valued
• Self-actualization – becoming your best self

Different cultures and people may prioritize these differently

Some people keep growing even when basic needs aren't fully met — this is called "growth orientation"

🔼 The more needs you meet, the higher your happiness can go.

🎯 Aligning Goals with Your Values

When your goals match your true values (not just what others expect), you feel more motivated and proud.

This kind of motivation is called autonomous motivation — doing something because you care, not because you're forced.

It helps you push through challenges and feel more satisfied in the end.

💡 Ask yourself: Is this goal me? Or just what others want?

💪 Turning Setbacks Into Strength

Life isn't always easy. That's why resilience — bouncing back from tough times — matters so much.

Resilient people handle stress better and are often even stronger after hard times

They use strategies like:

• 💭 Positive thinking
• 🧩 Problem-solving
• 🤝 Asking for support

This process can lead to post-traumatic growth — becoming wiser, kinder, and more self-aware after difficulties

🧠 Resilience is a skill — and you can build it.

📚 Learning = Lifelong Happiness

Learning new things (in school or life) boosts your mental health.

• It builds confidence and keeps your brain flexible
• It releases dopamine (a feel-good chemical!)
• People who keep learning — even in adulthood — are more likely to stay happy
• The best learning happens when you're curious and connected to others

🚀 Never stop learning — it's one of the best happiness habits.

🛠️ Your Meaning & Purpose Toolkit

To grow with purpose, try this:

• ✍️ Reflect on your values
• 🎯 Set meaningful, personal goals
• 🔁 Be resilient when life gets tough
• 📖 Keep learning and exploring
• 🫶 Stay true to who you are