We all ask the question at some point, I think.
Just what is the purpose of life?
It might just be the oldest question humanity has ever asked. I think it is probably different for every one of us. I mean, who can say for sure? No one has a definitive answer.
But there are many major perspectives on the topic.
Here are some that I’ve come across.
To seek happiness.
Many people believe the purpose of life is to experience joy, contentment, and moments of peace. Happiness comes in many forms for many people, I think. It could be through family, friendships, meaningful work, or simple pleasures. I think for many people, happiness is seen as one of life’s greatest rewards.
To grow.
Many philosophers, from Aristotle onward, have argued that the purpose of life is to flourish. To learn and grow. We are here to develop our character. Aristotle believed the goal of life was not simply to feel happy but to become the best version of ourselves. He suggested that a meaningful life is built through wisdom and integrity, and living in accordance with our values.
To love and be loved.
Many people believe that relationships are life’s deepest source of meaning. Whether it’s family, friendship, or romance. They conclude that these types of connections give purpose to our days.
To serve others.
Many religions and ethical traditions teach that purpose comes from helping others. Even small acts of kindness can ripple outward in ways we never see. Service.
To create.
Artists, inventors, teachers, gardeners, parents, and builders all leave something behind. Their creative works. These can take shape in many ways. But it is surrounded by the belief that it gives something to this world. Through this is a life well lived, and it gives many people a profound sense of purpose.
To seek truth.
Scientists, philosophers, and explorers often describe purpose as understanding reality. To seek truth about existence. And this, for some, can be a meaningful way to live.
To experience.
Another view is that life is all about finding it. Simply experiencing existence. It could be through adventure, music, mountains, food, laughter, sunsets, mistakes, flowers, and on. Experiencing these things may be enough for some.
To know God.
For many religious traditions, the purpose of life is to know, love, and draw closer to God. Different faiths express this differently, but the central idea is that earthly life is part of a larger spiritual journey.
I’m not quite sure what “the meaning” or “the purpose” of life might be. Maybe a combination of a few of these for me.
I think it is important to learn and grow and to try and discover who our best selves are. I think we should be kind to all. To all sentient beings. I also believe we should observe and appreciate the small wonders and everyday miracles that surround us. For they are everywhere, every minute, of every day. Maybe it is in seeking a higher spiritual connection with the Universe.
Most days, I just hope that I am doing this whole thing right.
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“The purpose of life is not to be happy. It is to be useful, honorable, compassionate, and to have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well.” — Ralph Waldo Emerson
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“Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom.” — Aristotle
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“The privilege of a lifetime is to become who you truly are.” — Carl Jung
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“Act as if what you do makes a difference. It does.” — William James
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“We can only be said to be alive in those moments when our hearts are conscious of our treasures.” — Thornton Wilder
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“Wonder is the beginning of wisdom.” — Socrates
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“There are only two ways to live your life. One is as though nothing is a miracle. The other is as though everything is a miracle.” — Albert Einstein
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