#JenasNotes

The Power of Meaning

Emily Esfahani Smith’s TED Talk

Our culture is obsessed with happiness, is happiness equivalent to having a meaningful life? In her book “The Power of Meaning,” Emily Esfahani Smith rounds up the latest research to argue that the search for meaning is far more fulfilling than the pursuit of happiness.

Happiness comes and goes.

…says writer Emily Esfahani Smith, but having meaning in life — serving something beyond yourself and developing the best within you — gives you something to hold onto.

Transcription:

I used to think the whole purpose of life was pursuing happiness. Everyone said the path to happiness was success, so I searched for that ideal job, that perfect boyfriend, that beautiful apartment.

But instead of ever feeling fulfilled, I felt anxious and adrift.

And I wasn’t alone; my friends — they struggled with this, too.