Does Everyone Have a Purpose?
Does everyone have a purpose? This is a question that I get asked frequently. Always by people who are either unsure they have found theirs……or who know they haven’t.
In fact it’s a question that has become quite common in recent years, although I’m sure that our ancestors were rarely troubled by the thought, and that Neanderthal man is unlikely to have ever considered it!
Positive psychology, a field that focuses on human strengths, virtues, and factors that contribute to a fulfilling life, asserts that indeed, everyone has a purpose.
- The Inherent Drive for Meaning and Purpose
Positive psychology recognises the fundamental human need for meaning and purpose. According to Dr. Martin Seligman, a pioneer in positive psychology, individuals are motivated by more than just pleasure and happiness; they also seek a deeper sense of fulfillment derived from a meaningful existence. Acknowledging and pursuing a purpose aligns with this inherent human drive, providing a framework for a richer and more purposeful life.
2. The Role of Signature Strengths in Unveiling Purpose
Positive psychology emphasises the identification and utilisation of individual strengths, known as “signature strengths.” According to the Values in Action (VIA) classification, these strengths are inherent to each person and contribute significantly to their overall well-being. By recognising and leveraging these strengths, individuals can uncover their unique purpose, aligning their actions and goals with what resonates most authentically with their core values.
3. Purpose as a Pathway to Resilience
The pursuit of purpose is intricately linked to resilience, a key concept in positive psychology. Dr. Viktor Frankl, a Holocaust survivor and existential psychologist, famously asserted that those who have a “why” to live can bear with almost any “how.” Embracing a sense of purpose acts as a guiding force during challenging times, providing the resilience needed to overcome obstacles and setbacks. Positive psychology suggests that purpose is not only a source of motivation but also a buffer against the inevitable storms of life.
4. Positive Emotions and Purpose: A Reciprocal Relationship
Positive psychology posits that cultivating positive emotions is essential for overall well-being. Purposeful living contributes significantly to the experience of positive emotions such as joy, gratitude, and a sense of accomplishment. Conversely, positive emotions can fuel the pursuit and realisation of one’s purpose. This reciprocal relationship between positive emotions and purpose creates a harmonious cycle, fostering a more optimistic and fulfilled life.
5. Social Connection and Collective Purpose
Positive psychology places a strong emphasis on social connections and the impact of a collective purpose. As individuals contribute to a shared purpose, whether it be within a family, community, or society at large, a sense of belonging and interconnectedness flourishes. Dr. Barbara Fredrickson’s broaden-and-build theory suggests that positive emotions, cultivated through a shared purpose, not only enhance individual well-being but also contribute to the building of social bonds and a positive collective identity.
6. The Evolutionary Perspective: Adaptive Nature of Purpose
From an evolutionary standpoint, positive psychology suggests that having a sense of purpose may have been adaptive for our ancestors. Dr. Christopher Peterson, another influential figure in positive psychology, argued that individuals with a purpose were more likely to engage in activities that contributed to the survival of their communities. The pursuit of purpose, therefore, may be deeply ingrained in our biological and psychological makeup, further supporting the affirmative stance on everyone having a purpose.
In the realm of positive psychology, the answer to whether everyone has a purpose is answered with a resounding “yes.” The pursuit and realisation of purpose align with fundamental human needs for meaning, fulfilment, and resilience. By tapping into individual strengths, embracing positive emotions, fostering social connections, and recognising the adaptive nature of purpose, positive psychology provides a robust framework for understanding and affirming the significance of purpose in every individual’s life.
