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The Power of Finding Your Purpose: What Research Shows
Finding your purpose in life is one of the most powerful things you can do for your mental and physical health. When researchers studied over 66,000 people, they found that those with a strong sense of purpose had much less depression and anxiety (Koenen et al., 2023). Another study of 9,050 older adults discovered that people with the strongest sense of purpose were 30% less likely to die during the 8.5-year study period (Steptoe et al., 2014).
Having purpose helps you live longer, no matter your age, gender, or income level. The research shows that purposeful people take better care of themselves, feel less stressed, have stronger immune systems, and connect better with others (American Psychiatric Association, 2024). Purpose also helps people bounce back from tough times and reduces harmful inflammation in the body (Stretcher, 2024).
The bottom line: Purpose isn't just a feel-good idea—it's scientifically proven to help you live a longer, healthier, happier life. Finding what matters most to you could be one of the best investments you make in your wellbeing.
References
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American Psychiatric Association. (2024). Purpose in life can lead to less stress, better mental well-being. Psychiatry.org. https://www.psychiatry.org/news-room/apa-blogs/purpose-in-life-less-stress-better-mental-health
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Hill, P. L., & Turiano, N. A. (2014). Purpose in life as a predictor of mortality across adulthood. PMC. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4224996/
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Koenen, K. C., Alatorre, D., Areán, P. A., Backman, L., Bartels, S. J., Berger, J. M., ... & Zisook, S. (2023). The relationship between purpose in life and depression and anxiety: A meta-analysis. PubMed. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37572371/
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Steptoe, A., Deaton, A., & Stone, A. A. (2014). Sense of meaning and purpose in life linked to longer lifespan. UCL News. https://www.ucl.ac.uk/news/2014/nov/sense-meaning-and-purpose-life-linked-longer-lifespan
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Stretcher, V. (2024, April 18). The power of purpose: How our deepest intentions shape our health and longevity. University of Michigan School of Public Health. https://sph.umich.edu/pursuit/2024posts/the-power-of-purpose-how-our-deepest-intentions-shape-our-health.html