by Todd Pheifer

Created on: February 19, 2008

What is the meaning of life? Only you as a thinking individual can answer that particular question for yourself. Unfortunately, for some people that isn't terribly helpful for decision-making because it doesn't really tell them anything tangible. The word "meaning" itself is a big vague to begin with, which leaves the individual in a position where they do not have definitive goals and objectives. Here are a few thoughts on how to navigate through general or undetermined terminology in order to find "meaning" in life.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE TO DO?

I teach college students, and one of the classes that I teach revolves around career planning. Early on in the class, I have them do an exercise where they write out a list of things that they "love" to do. For many people, this is a starting point towards establishing meaning. Granted, it is difficult to spend all of our time and resources on the things that we love. We still need to go to work, we still need to be responsible, and we need to engage in activities that are not always pleasant. Still, it is often helpful to ponder those things that give you joy. Perhaps it is family, friends, work, causes, or legacy.

DO YOU NEED TO THINK BEYOND YOURSELF?

We live in a society that is rather focused on the needs of the individual person, as determined by them. Therefore, "meaning" is often determined from the perspective of individual happiness. It may behoove us as a society to shift our focus to things beyond our own satisfaction. People often profess that they find deeper meaning in life when they focus on giving rather than thinking about getting. Therefore, meaning may be more easily obtained by paying attention to helping others, improving society, and developing a legacy for future generations.

Overall, meaning is a very personal thing. For myself I find absolute meaning in my faith. I believe in what Rick Warren said in his book "The Purpose Driven Life". Warren starts the book by talking about the fact that life is not about me. In other words, meaning goes far beyond my individual needs.

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