How much meaning do you find in the things that you do?

Do you feel that your life has purpose?

Often we can reduce our wellbeing – or that of our children – into a simple question of ‘how happy are they?’ But wellbeing is much more than that.

Psychologists continue to find that happiness and pleasure (known as hedonic wellbeing) are not enough to sustain real wellbeing. We also need eudemonic wellbeing – or, a sense of meaning and purpose in what we do.

It is useful to step back from time to time and reflect on the sense of meaning and purpose we are experiencing – a tough thing to do amongst the busy-ness of parenting and working, but useful none-the-less:

• How do you see your job? Is it just a way to earn money or do you feel like it’s your ‘calling’?
• What impact have you had on others over the past few years – in your work, your friendships or in other ways?
• What legacy have you left behind and what kind of legacy would you like to leave in the future?

Ensuring that we have the opportunity to find meaning and purpose in life is a key part of experiencing wellbeing. And, it’s important that we help our children find the same.

Find teachable moments that demonstrate life isn’t just about being happy or experiencing pleasure, but doing things that align with your values and beliefs, contribute positively to others and, even as kids, creates a legacy they can be proud of. This can include simple things like:

• Talking about your work and how you find or create meaning in it.
• Joining them in volunteer activities
• Supporting and encouraging fundraising for a charity of their choice
• Sharing stories of people in your family or history that have lived purpose-filled lives

May you be encouraged that as an engaged and supportive parent you are undertaking one of the meaningful and purpose-filled tasks life can give. Thank you!