How Do I Find My Answer to the Question of Meaning?

“Questioning the meaning of life is part of being human.” – Viktor Frankl

Many of us ask ourselves this question—either consciously or unconsciously. And asking about life’s meaning actually has a deeper purpose: It can be the first step toward a more fulfilling life. Studies show that people who find their life’s purpose live healthier, more resilient, and even happier lives (Musich et al., 2018). A meaningful life can even reduce fear of death (Cicirelli, 2006).

But how do you get there? How do you find your own meaning in life?

Why Many People Feel Unfulfilled Despite a “Good” Life

Many people objectively live good lives—they have security, social connections, freedom, and autonomy. Yet, they often feel an inner emptiness or the sense of “not quite arriving.”

This is usually because a central need is missing: a sense of meaning. Without meaning, even a seemingly perfect life can feel incomplete. We are not machines—we are feeling beings with a desire to contribute to something bigger.

How Can You Find Your Life’s Purpose?

Good news: There are many paths to discovering your purpose. The less good news: it takes time, patience, and self-reflection. Here are four powerful approaches to help you get closer to your answer.

1. Identify Your Personal Values

If your life feels meaningless or empty, it’s often because you’re not living in alignment with your values—or you don’t yet fully know what they are.

Values aren’t goals; they are compass points for daily life—things like honesty, courage, freedom, or compassion. They accompany you permanently and give direction to your actions.

Tip: To clarify your values, try self-reflection exercises or use questionnaires like the one from Wilson & Groom (2002) to illuminate key life areas.

2. Ask Yourself the Right Questions

Sometimes, answers aren’t found in books but in the right questions. For example:

• When was the last time you felt truly alive?

• What would you want people to say about you at your funeral?

• Who inspires you—and why?

• During which activity do you lose track of time?

• How would you live if money wasn’t an issue?

These questions help you recognize patterns and name your deepest desires.

3. Visualize Your Ideal Life with a Vision Board

A vision board is a creative method to visualize your life purpose. Using images, quotes, and symbols, you capture what really matters to you—and see it daily.

Benefits:

• Boosts motivation

• Makes your values tangible

• Supports clear goal setting

  
  

4. Read Inspirational Books

Reading can open doors to finding meaning. It offers new perspectives and helps you understand your own values better.

Recommended reads:

• Viktor Frankl: Man’s Search for Meaning

• John Strelecky: The Cafe on the Edge of the World

These books encourage deeper reflection without pressure.

Conclusion: Your Purpose Doesn’t Have to Be Grand

Your life purpose doesn’t need to be huge or spectacular. It can be as simple as: “I want to be an honest person who helps others with optimism.”

Trust that you will find it—not necessarily today, not necessarily tomorrow—but you will recognize it. Then everything will make sense.

“He who has a why to live can bear almost any how.” – Friedrich Nietzsche

If you want support discovering your purpose—whether through a first conversation, targeted impulses, or personal counseling—feel free to reach out. Together, we’ll find what fulfills you, drives you, and gives your life direction.