Happiness Isn't The Meaning Of Life – But This Emotion May Be

A plant growing through metalAccording to a new paper published in the journal Emotion, hope, not happiness, might be key to giving our lives meaning. The article, authored by University of Missouri researchers, looked at six studies involving 2,300 participants. The scientists evaluated the effect that emotions like amusement, contentment, excitement and happiness had on people’s outlook and well-being. They found that of all the feelings analysed, only hope proved to be a “unique and robust predictor of meaning in life”.In fact, some data in the study suggested that “daily hope predicted daily meaning independent of positive emotions” – in other words, even people who weren’t particularly pleased but were hopeful had a stronger sense of meaning.Why does hope matter?Speaking to the University of Missouri, Professor Laura King, who helped to lead the study, said: “Experiencing life as meaningful is crucial for just about every good thing you can imagine in a person’s life.”A sense of meaning has been associated with a lower dementia risk, a decreased likelihood of developing heart health issues, a longer lifespan, and even an increased chance of exercising more and eating fruit and veg.Professor King shared, “This cornerstone of psychological functioning is not a rare experience – it is available to people in their everyday lives, and hope is one of the things that make life feel meaningful.” The researcher said she thinks this benefit of hope may only be the tip of the iceberg (it’s certainly not the only paper to find concrete advantages of being hopeful). Her study co-lead, Dr Megan Edwards, said future research may focus on building and maintaining hope through adversity. “This insight opens new avenues for enhancing psychological well-being,” she shared. How can I try to be more hopeful?The scientists shared that noticing and appreciating positive experiences daily can go a long way, as can “seizing opportunities” even in trying times. Appreciating growth and potential in yourself and others can help, as can engaging in caring activities like “tending to children or planting trees.” Remember, they add – nothing is permanent.Related...How 'Worthsplaining' Is Impacting Your Wellbeing – And How To StopIt’s Not Social Media – What Teens Say Is Damaging Their Mental Health MostThis Is How Optimism Can Help Your Physical And Mental Health

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