Although several factors need to be present to live longer, having a sense of purpose appears to be one of the strongest. It may even be just as important as eating a healthy diet and getting regular exercise. A sense of purpose will help you to have a fuller and more satisfying life. When you are without one, life can seem drab and pointless and seem to lack being worthwhile.
Having a purpose will add meaning to your life and give you a reason to get out of bed in the morning. It will help remove drudgery and enable you to feel a sense of accomplishment.
If your purpose is to work for the benefit of others, it will make you happier because you will know that you are meeting the needs of other people. It will also give you a reason to keep on going, even when some spots get a little rough.
People who have a purpose or reason for living will feel happier than those who have none. One study discovered that people that smiled when their pictures were taken lived as much as seven years longer than those who did not smile.
When there is no purpose in life, it can easily lead to depression. Sadness may also result from it. When that occurs, it can lead you to a life of negativism that will be reflected in your relationships and personal habits. Your behavior is also likely to be affected by it.
Attitude also affects how you relate to others. When you are happy, you are likely to have more friends, and healthy social interaction can also add years to your life.
Several studies have revealed that having a purpose in life not only benefited seniors, but it produced healthier people of all ages. It was also shown to reduce your risk of death from certain health risks, such as cardiovascular disease and most other causes of death. The cause is not exactly clear, but studies have also revealed that it may not reduce some health risks – such as cancer.
Studies also found that people that have a purpose in life are likely to take steps to help protect their health. This may include eating more healthy foods, getting sufficient sleep, and regular exercise. You may also work toward reducing stress, which can cause inflammation. It has also been suggested that people with a life’s purpose may be somewhat protected from the effects of stress. If you have chronic stress, it can even negate the benefits that eating healthy may provide.
Purpose can also help you weather the storms when they come. Everyone is going to experience some failure and disappointments, as well as some downtimes. A sense of purpose will help you to keep going and provide you with motivation and support along the way.
Your life’s purpose may be different than someone else’s idea of it. It can range from something small – such as performing well on your job, helping your grandkids, volunteering, taking courses to improve your job or a hobby, or seeking to ensure that your family is happy – and a dozen other things.
