What is purpose of life?

The concept of the purpose of life is complex and varies widely depending on philosophical, psychological, and personal perspectives. Here are some key insights from different sources:

Personal and Subjective Purpose

• For many individuals, life purpose is deeply personal and unique. It consists of the central motivating aims that guide life decisions, influence behavior, and create meaning. This purpose can be connected to meaningful work, responsibilities to family or friends, spirituality, or other aspects of life1.
• Purpose can evolve over time as priorities and experiences change. Reflecting on questions like "Who am I?", "Where do I belong?", and "When do I feel fulfilled?" can help in discovering one's purpose1.

Social and Altruistic Purpose

• A sense of purpose often arises from connections to others and the desire to make a positive impact on the world. Engaging in altruistic behaviors, such as volunteering or helping others, is associated with a more meaningful and purposeful life2.
• Purpose can grow from overcoming personal obstacles and using those experiences to help others. This can create a sense of community and shared goals2.

Philosophical and Spiritual Perspectives

• From a philosophical standpoint, the meaning of life has been debated extensively. Some argue that the purpose is to live according to reason and virtue, as in Stoicism, which emphasizes freedom from suffering through self-control and clear judgment4.
• Spiritual or religious beliefs can also provide a sense of purpose, often tied to a higher power or divine order4.

Evolutionary and Scientific Perspectives

• According to Yale psychiatrist Samuel Wilkinson, the purpose of life can be understood through the lens of evolution. He suggests that life's purpose is to choose between good and evil impulses inherent in human nature, which is seen as a fundamental aspect of human existence and a test of our moral character5.

Psychological and Existential Perspectives

• From a psychological perspective, purpose is linked to personal growth, overcoming challenges, and finding meaning in one's existence. This can involve mastering challenging tasks, experiencing flow, and contributing to something larger than oneself4.
• Existential crises can prompt deep reflections on life's purpose, leading some to conclude that purpose is about making choices that align with one's values and contributing positively to the world4.

Universal and Transcendent Purpose

• Eckhart Tolle suggests that the true purpose of life is not to achieve happiness but to awaken consciousness. According to him, challenges and difficulties are essential for growth and evolution, both physically and spiritually3.

In summary, the purpose of life is multifaceted and can be understood in various ways, including:

• Personal and subjective aims that give life meaning.
• Social and altruistic contributions that benefit others.
• Philosophical and spiritual frameworks that provide a sense of direction.
• Evolutionary and scientific perspectives that highlight moral choices.
• Psychological and existential reflections that emphasize personal growth and contribution.

Ultimately, the purpose of life is a deeply individual and evolving concept that each person must explore and define for themselves.