If life feels meaningless to you, you’re not alone. Tips, such as fostering healthy relationships and observing what brings you joy, may help you find purpose and fulfillment.
Life is beautiful. But sometimes you may feel like you’re in a monotonous cycle; feeling like you do the same thing daily or live a meaningless life.
The reasons why life may feel meaningless can differ from person to person. For example, mental health conditions, such as depression or other mood disorders, may lead to feelings of sadness or hopelessness. Potentially reducing someone’s interest in activities they enjoyed in the past.
In addition, unfulfillment at work, home, or socially may cause someone to search for a deeper meaning in life. But help is available to improve life satisfaction and purpose. You’re not alone.
Some of the ways to deal with feelings of life being meaningless include:
When you live with intention, you recognize why you do what you do. You’ll consider each aspect of your life to see if it aligns with your vision or goals. Living with intention is the practice of structuring your day-to-day life based on your core beliefs and values.
The journey of intentional living can be challenging as you begin to define your personal values and beliefs. It may be helpful to practice positive self-talk and disconnect from distractions, such as social media, during this time.
Consider exploring your feelings to delve into what you want and need to live intentionally. The following questions may help you get started:
- What brings me feelings of joy?
- What passions and interests would I like to explore more of?
- What drives me to succeed?
- What does success mean to me?
2022 research suggests that gratitude writing can help people positively reframe their circumstances, decrease stress, and improve mood.
You can integrate gratitude into your daily life by:
- writing letters to someone who’s had a positive impact on you
- creating a list of things you’re grateful for
- taking time to pause in moments when you feel thankful
- expressing gratitude during prayer
Watching for things that bring meaning to your life can help you find positive aspects. Sometimes, it’s the things that seem mundane that bring the most meaning, including a beautiful natural sight or an unexpected blessing.
Dr. Noelle Nelson, clinical psychologist and author, explains that “To do something with meaning involves giving that act significance and value.”
Nelson provides the following examples on how to find meaning in your day-to-day life:
- setting your alarm in the morning to give yourself adequate time to get ready for the day without feeling rushed
- hugging your spouse, not because it’s routine, but because you want to express how much you appreciate them
You may also consider trying the “coffee mindfulness” exercise which involves bringing awareness to your five senses while drinking a beverage of your choice, such as coffee, tea, or water.
Spending time with positive people is a sure way of finding meaning in your life. The best relationships to engage in are the ones with those who offer support and positivity while encouraging you on your journey.
You may also consider making space for nostalgia by reminiscing with family and friends, listening to music that reminds you of joyous times, or creating a scrapbook for important life events.
According to 2022 research, spending moments in nostalgia can help people find, maintain, and restore meaning in life.
Research also suggests that nostalgia can increase your sense of belonging and acceptance, even when you’re faced with challenges in life.
It’s important to note that not everyone has a positive past on which to reflect. If you don’t have a positive experience with nostalgia, consider identifying a person or experience that carries more positive or enjoyable memories for you.
The journey to finding meaning in life can be difficult, but you don’t have to do it alone. Consider speaking with a therapist or psychologist for help with coping and finding meaning in life.
If you live with a mental health condition, they can also help you manage symptoms that may contribute to the feelings you’re experiencing.
Consider using the FindCare tool to find a mental health professional near you. You may also consider visiting Psych Central’s resource page to find a therapist based on your unique needs.
Your reasoning for feeling as though life has no meaning may differ from other people’s, and your coping methods will vary, too. But you’re not alone.
Trying self-help tips, such as practicing daily intention and gratitude, building healthy relationships, or adding value to mundane moments may help you cope.
If you’re seeking support, consider speaking with a mental health professional to guide you during this time.
For further support in gaining a sense of purpose, consider visiting Psych Central’s resource page.
If you’re experiencing suicidal thoughts, help is available
You can access free support right away with these resources:
- 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.Call or text the Lifeline at 988 for English or Spanish, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
- The Crisis Text Line.Text HOME to the Crisis Text Line at 741741.
- The Trevor Project. LGBTQIA+ and under 25 years old? Call 866-488-7386, text “START” to 678678, or chat online 24/7.
- Veterans Crisis Line.Call 988 and press 1, text 838255, or chat online 24/7.
- Deaf Crisis Line.Call 321-800-3323, text “HAND” to 839863, or visit their website.
- Befrienders Worldwide.This international crisis helpline network can help you find a local helpline.