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I feel like life is pointless. How can I find meaning in my life?

308 Answers
Last Updated: 07/01/2020 at 1:10pm
I feel like life is pointless. How can I find meaning in my life?
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Top Rated Answers
Anonymous
September 27th, 2018 2:36pm
I’m so sorry that you’re feeling like this. I understand the pain that you’re going through. At one time I felt like I was worthless. My advice to you would be to communicate your struggles to loved ones or a therapist. They can help you. As for finding meaning in your life, I suggest developing a new hobby. You ever have a desire to try something new? Play an instrument? Try a new sport? When I was depressed I picked up my guitar and it has changed my life. My instructor is practically my best friend and I’ve met new people who share the same interest with me. The pain will get better. Good luck
ElectricJoy17
October 27th, 2018 7:51am
I have felt like life was meaningless many times before as well. I found a meaning, however small it may be, in my passions, such as art, which in turn gave me more ambition and motivation to perform those passions. It might take some time, but no matter how cliche this may sound, it is worth it. When you finally find your niche, your thing that makes you wish that you don't have to sleep, it makes all of the difference in life. There are 2 ways that you can look at it, in where you give your life meaning, either to yourself or to the people. It is your choice and your meaning. But remember this, even in the darkest and loneliest of times, it is never pointless.
Anonymous
November 8th, 2018 5:50pm
Generally when we do something we don't like or do almost nothing, and have some experiences that affect us, we tend to question everything including selves. Firstly, we should be aware of what situation makes us feel like this. If we really be honest to ourselves, and listen to our inside well we can find some clues. Other than inside journey, we can also try something new (new job, travelling to new places, new friends, new style etc.), thus we can be able to find better way for us. Extra: When you volunteer for others, it also gives you encourage to change and help. It works! Don't give up and keep strong.
Hwebb963
November 21st, 2018 11:24pm
Find something you love to do. Whether it’s a team sport, painting, drawing, singing, dancing, etc., it really helps bring you happiness, and everyone is deserving and able to find that one thing that really makes them happy. You could start by looking around at your school and seeing the team sports they have to offer, or going out and trying new things until you find something that you really love. I know when I ride horses, it makes me forget about everything that is making me sad or angry and it helps me be happy and less anxious
Anonymous
December 12th, 2018 12:18pm
Try think about what you want, maybe become famous? meet famous person? help others? let those dream lead your life. think what you wanted to be because it is never too late to be what you might have been. This is not the end. Your present situation is not your final destination. How about try to find something new? Maybe join a fandom? Try listening to music in other language or try learning other language. Try learning about other country, culture, race and religion. Just come here, join our community. You can also help people here. If you can't help yourself, try help others ;)
CompassionateYoshi88
December 16th, 2018 2:47pm
I think that to answer that question , you first need to understand who you are. Asking yourself questions like what kinds of things do I like?, What makes me smile?, What are some things that might motivate me?, are the kinds of questions that might lead you to find something within yourself that you didn't know was there. Purpose can mean different things for different people. Some find purpose in work, some find it in isolation, some find it when they never intended to find it in the first place. To me, the best place to start is within yourself... What? Why? When? etc. Dig deep into your soul, confront the uncomfortable, and search harder in your darkest moments, because if you do, you'll find a light bright enough to change your life... Trust me, I know.
FlintWolf
December 21st, 2018 11:19am
Purpose is one of the most important aspects of living, without meaning and moral obligation to keep going many people may stray from the path of kindness or fall prey to their own inner demons. Purpose is only achieved by achieving or working toward happiness, find what makes you happy. Understand that every sense, taste, touch, smell, they all will affect your overall quality of life and ability to move forward. Purpose can be found in simple things, the beauty and scent of a rose for example, or within the thrilling aspects of uncovering new knowledge. Purpose is what makes us happy, gives us pleasure and helps everyone around us :)
Anonymous
December 27th, 2018 8:11am
It's really upsetting that people today have the means to live, but no meaning to live for. What really helps you find meaning in your life is finding a purpose, or someone to live for. Lacking goals and dreams can often make you feel like your existence is meaningless. Have a meaningful exchange with someone or something that you love. Every. Single. Day. It doesn't have to be 10 hobbies or a hundred people, just that one thing or person. Humans are extremely relational creatures. If we cannot connect with people, we will turn to fantasy. Not having meaningful connections with things that we enjoy doing makes us feel that we're lost in life and that we have nothing to live for. If you can find a reason to be alive, you'll have a purpose and meaning.
fearlesspanda8467
February 9th, 2019 8:58pm
I’ve often felt pointless or worthless and like I didn’t have a meaning in life. I’ve been down some dark roads which I have progressed from. Everyone has a meaning in life even if you think that you don’t. I still don’t really know the “meaning” that I need or that I’m searching for but I find myself using small things in my life to help with that. Things like my dog or my brother. A rainbow after a rainy day, the birds chirping and the sound of the wind whistling by my ears as I go on my walks.
Anonymous
March 24th, 2019 8:48am
What is your favorite hobby? Maybe you like gardening, drawing, writing, painting, dusting, or even bowling. Take that thing that you love, take your favorite hobby. That's meaning. Now take a person who you love, someone who cares about you just as much as you care about them, someone who would swim across and ocean for you. They are a meaning for life. Look outside, look at nature and people. They are a reason to love. There is meaning in your life all around you, one must simply dare to open their eyes and look out at the unknown possibilities.
HotChocolate2
June 22nd, 2019 4:00am
That’s a good question! A lot of people these days place a lot of importance on ‘finding meaning’ in your life. I think what they’re really looking for is a feeling of satisfaction and a passionate drive that keeps them going every day. There’s no set ‘goal’ or ‘meaning’ in your life that has to be ‘found’ for you to achieved this, because that sort of drive comes from being happy with yourself and doing what you love! How do I do that then, you might ask? Well, an easy way to start is to think about what you appreciate in your life right now. It could be your family, your friends, or just the fact that you are reading a book you like! Then try and explore whatever it is you enjoy doing. Maybe go to new places and meet new people, or make a bucket list of things you want to do! Setting positive goals for the future can be a great way to get out of a dump and make you feel better. Finally, if you’re really stuck and don’t know what to do, try talking to someone! You might get a fresh new perspective on your situation that you never thought about before. I hope this has been helpful. Please continue to post questions like this if you need help!
zwesterb
June 29th, 2019 10:33pm
I understand where you're coming from because I've felt that way too. There have been times in my life where I felt like life was pointless. What I ended up discovering is that part of the reason I was feeling like life was pointless was because I was dealing with a little bit of depression that I hadn't gotten treated. It wasn't until a friend made me aware that it was worth seeking assistance that I even considered it. Once I sought professional assistance I got much better. As a result I was able to find meaning in my life. Have you thought about talking to someone professionally to let them know how you're feeling? They might be able to help you with discovering your purpose as well. It always helps to talk to someone else because two brains are more powerful than one.
ScratchAspiringPsychiatrist
July 20th, 2019 2:47pm
Life is never pointless. Everybody serves a purpose. Even small things can make a huge difference and it is more than possible that you have already done that. When I thought my life was pointless, my friends and family told me how broken they would feel if I had killed myself, and I realized that my life meaning was making others happy with my presence. And if you don’t already make people happy by just being there, it would be by your accomplishments. Again, they can be small, but they make a big impact. I can assure you that your family and friends would be devastated if you left them.
BraveWings116
July 31st, 2019 5:15pm
Finding meaning in life has been the goal of humankind since the beginning of time. Unfortunately, this is a rather difficult goal and a hard question to answer, because the meaning of life is different for every individual. However, I think that the best way to find your personal meaning is to do activities that you love and to be around other individuals that you enjoy. Getting out in the community and volunteering is often a great way to do this. Alternatively, trying to show kindness to others is one way of finding meaning in your life. It is often the smallest actions that can have the greatest impacts. For example, a smile or a kind word can mean the world to someone who is silently struggling with depression or who is lonely. I wish you luck with finding your meaning, but also would like to caution you that those who try too hard and too intensely to find their meaning may become overwhelmed and thus conclude that their life does not have meaning. So be kind to yourself as well, and realize that finding meaning in your life is a lifelong journey that never ends and that this meaning can be ever-changing.
MorganRayne
August 7th, 2019 9:22pm
No one's life is pointless. We all have meaning and purpose. A great way to find meaning in your life is by helping others with the knowledge you possess from personal experiences. Someone else may be feeling the exact same way you may have felt with the same or similar situation. By opening up and empathizing with them, you help others cope and give hope that they are not alone in this. Compassion goes a long way. By simply listening or acknowledging someone else that is going through a rough time can make a world of a difference to them, thus proving that life is not pointless and you do having meaning in your life by helping others find the meaning in their life.
elizabethunter
August 28th, 2019 1:19pm
it is hard to find I understand you. But there is. Trust me. There is some light in this world and maybe now you don't see it but is there and you eventually will see it. Probably you feel like you aren't worth it or that your life is pointless, but it is not. You are worth it. Trust me. Now, think about something that makes you happy. Whether that is some boy, or a girl, or even some friends. Someone or something can make your life amazing. Maybe start going to the gym or train some sports because that can help a lot. Start writing or drawing or whatever makes you feel happy. And when you feel sad just think about that thing and it will change your life. Believe me.
MarinaHelp
September 13th, 2019 6:47pm
I have been in a similar situation before, and I understand how frustrating it feels to just go with the daily motions without actually enjoying life. I have found a few things have helped me get out of this cycle. 1) I took some time to identify my genuine interests. For example, I loved drawing as a child, so I decided to take that up as a hobby. Having hobbies gave me something to look forward to once in a while. 2) I looked for things that I am passionate about - things that made me feel SOMETHING. For example, I am passionate about animals, so put myself around them more, volunteered at a shelter, and found purpose in advocating for them. 3) I found meaning in the little things. Sometimes, although it is tough to do or see, I found that being more present in moments allowed me to find joy. For example, really enjoying spending time with my friends or family and making an effort to be present helped me find meaning in my friendships and connections with other people. Even taking time to talk to somebody in line at the grocery store/acknowledging other people's experiences helps. I hope that this may help on your journey in finding meaning in life.
DonkeyThoughts
November 1st, 2019 12:58am
Just focus on being okay right now. Eventually, things will get better. Once things get better, everything can stabilize. And then you can focus on what you want your life to mean. What does the meaning of life mean personally? Life means trying to make the most of what you are given. It also means doing your best to lift others up when you are in a position to do so. The meaning of life is whatever you make of it, as long as it is positive and provides something good for the world. Be an example for everyone else, while also pursuing health.
wildghostmemories
November 1st, 2019 9:41pm
Before I say anything I want you to know that you're life has value and worth even if you are feeling pointless and lost. I can imagine how difficult it must be to feel that way and I want you to know that it is not easy but also not uncommon to feel lost like that. Your meaning in life is personal to you, it can be as complex as solving a major math problem and saving the world or as simple as making sure your pets have food and coworkers hava a good day. Whatever brings you joy is worthy and meaningful.
FrostWire
January 9th, 2020 3:09am
When did living start feeling pointless? Are there actions other than self hurt that could possibly help your mood? If you could take a vacation in a woody area would you take time to help yourself clear your mind? I've taken time by the river in the past where i'm from. It helped me to focus and channel my negative energy by a positive energy that is similar to life itself. Imagining yourself like a rock, and water as life's grand challenges. We as humans can not actually be a rock; but metaphorically lets say we are. But water represents our every day problems that we as rocks can not fight because of the current. Can we choose what we are molded into? Is the answer No because we are rocks? If So; how can we compare and contrast what a human can do to what a rock can do? Understanding ourselves can have a better affect on our minds and even help us with taking on day by day stressful situations rite? Thanks for reaching out to 7 Cups for support; and if there is a time to help a friend, we are here to help!
enchantingSky79
January 10th, 2020 12:35pm
You bring meaning to your life. Doing what you love, whether it is a hobby or a job you enjoy can make your life seem less pointless. Everyone has a different view about what brings meaning into their life. Usually long term goals help bring meaning to your life. Even short ones help. If things that used to bring you joy and meaning don’t bring you that anymore, you might want to speak to a doctor about it to see if you are depressed. Some people live to become rich, others to raise their kids and see their grandkids one day but it is different for everyone.
Uuuuuuhgood
January 22nd, 2020 1:05am
One technique that I use that really helps is to make a list everyday of three things I am proud of doing at the end of each day! Take it one day at a time and go easy on yourself! Make small goals everyday, and they will eventually get you to larger goals! It can also be good to have a calendar and everyday you meal off whether you have met your physical, emotional, spiritual, and mental needs. At the end of the week, tally up your points and figure out what you need to focus on the next week. Spend some time every week reflecting on yourself and how you feel, and remember that you can do this!
AnxiousLittleBookworm
February 27th, 2020 5:57am
Try new things and talk to new people! Honestly! Putting yourself out there and joining a club in your community, trying out a hobby, setting goals for yourself in your workplace, talking to someone in line at Starbucks. We find meaning in our lives through our active participation in it. If you feel you have lots going on in your life but none of it is meaningful to you, it might be time to shake things up and step outside your comfort zone. Mindfulness can also help you find meaning. Taking a moment to slow down, and really consider what you have around you. The 'point' might become a little bit clearer :)
MrFaust
March 28th, 2020 6:31pm
I think finding the meaning of life has been a complicated situation for all people as for me. We need to learn life and our life to find the meaning of our life, and we should definitely take time to learn. Thinking about the places we want to achieve, what we want to achieve and reviewing our daily activities will definitely help us in this process. In addition, exercising, nature walks and eating healthy will put you in a more positive relationship with your body and nature. Although all of these may seem small things, I think that the observations and experiences you will make over time will help you learn the purpose of your life.
Bwydnoww
April 3rd, 2020 5:24pm
Life isn't pointless, you have to look at all the great things that life has to share. You are something and you could do great things, change things, invent new things. You may not think of all the things that you can do but you can do so much more. Life doesn't have a meaning, life is what you make it. Life can be anything you want it to be and I believe that you can do such good things and make it however you want life to be for yourself. It may not be what you want but it will change, I promise.
ListenerNDR4U
April 12th, 2020 7:31am
Look around me, my loved ones need me. They bring meaning to my life. My friends need me, who will be their confidant if not me. My dreams need me, they need someone to achieve them. I need myself, as only I can make my life worthy of living. It's important to assess and reflect on what made your life pointless and stay away from that for your own well-being. Your happiness lies beyond that. Never lose hope and never lose faith on life because you'll miss your chance at having the best life. Life is beautiful and I/You deserve that beautiful life.
musicalEnergy94
April 16th, 2020 10:54am
finding meaning in your life when you feel like life is hopeless is difficult because you may feel alone with no support. so many people feel like there is no meaning because there may be so many decisions every direction they look at. a simpler life has less decisions and more time for meaning. everyone has different lives but creating goals can help to find meaning. you can control how much effert goes into each goal depending on how difficult it is. when you meet a goal such as going for a walk or organizing your daily plan. when you meet a goal give yourself credit for doing it. you can create your life anyway you want. if you stay positive just that alone can create meaning in everything you do
Anonymous
April 22nd, 2020 4:10pm
Look around you, think what has made you happy. Find a new hobby and things that will motivate you.Try to talk to people and have fun with them. Do the things that you feel most happy doing and start doing them more often, for example being with your family, being with your friends, playing a sport, drawing something, singing and dancing to your favorite songs, going out in nature and seeing the beautiful and unique places.You can find meaning in anything around you, there are so many things that you can do. Life is beautiful it has bad sides to but try to life it the fullest.
blissfulBadger6896
May 7th, 2020 10:50pm
For this question, I tend to turn to Viktor Frankl, an Austrian neurologist and psychiatrist who survived a concentration camp in WW2. He found that a helpful question to ask is, "What is it that I am living for? What is the one thing that I, and I alone, can do?" This may be as simple as caring for a loved one or pet. It may be completing a project, like a book or a piece of construction. I feel sad, and sometimes angry, when I think that life is meaningless and that nothing really matters in the end. But I think that life is about making our own meaning and making relationships with other people. Personally, I have found that doing service to people in my community really helps. Like personally making or buying a meal for a homeless person, or putting together a care package.
AakritiRastogi
May 8th, 2020 10:27am
Initially we all feel so. But never loose hope, everyone on this planet has some role to play and so do you must have. You have a role to be kind, to Love everyone, do the right thing for you. Try doing Things that interests you the most. Like people love painting, music,dance etc so they choose a career out of it. Ask your inner self what is that thing you live the most, try doing that thing and as you’ll love doing that, this question on your pointless life will go, by this you will find the meaning of your life. And I am sure you are here on the planet to do something brilliant. Good luck