How to Find the Meaning of Life

Philosophers, ministers, monks and mystical teachers all ponder the meaning of life, otherwise known as our life purpose. The answer for each is different. It's up to each individual to determine what constitutes meaning and what core values matter most. Rather than a concrete definition, below are options for exploring and determining on your own what the meaning of life is.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Live a virtuous life. Plato taught that truth, beauty and goodness are the keys to a joyous life. He believed that, "he who is virtuous is happy." Find ways to incorporate meaning in your life through ideals. Determine your personal code of ethics to live a virtuous life.
2. End suffering. Buddhists believe humans suffer because they seek meaning in things that have no permanence. The attachment to "things" causes suffering. Buddhists teach that to end suffering, release attachment to material items and seek enlightenment.
3. Search for meaning. Viktor Frankl said in "Man's Search for Meaning" that the meaning of life is the actual search, or quest, for meaning. Carl Jung also believed that you need to create your own meaning. The search for meaning is continual. You must decide what in life holds value and seek it.
4. Treat others with care. Various religions teach that the meaning of life is to show love. Follow the Golden Rule and treat others as you would like to be treated. Meaning is found in and through the expression of love.
5. Contribute to something greater than yourself. Ralph Waldo Emerson said we should leave the world a better place. Determine how you can create a better world and make this your purpose in life. Contemplate what you can do to make a difference.