The role of hope in our lives seems to be understated or trivialized, but a recent study sheds light on the positive effects of hope and how this stabilizing force and way of thinking may have more value than happiness when predicting a sense of meaning in life.
Happiness is usually the primary goal we strive for, especially since it has major health and immunity benefits. But happiness is not constant, therefore, it’s not a realistic (primary) goal to aspire to because chasing it would heighten feelings of pressure and stress, often resulting in a fear of failure. When happiness is the main goal, it may lead to comparison and self-judgment, since we often measure our happiness against others’ or a standard set by society. This can cause dissatisfaction because happiness is subjective and doesn’t have a one-size-fits-all option. “Happiness should be the outcome to doing things you love,” (Gonzales, 2024).
Hope, however, is a powerful driver of motivation that sustains us through adversity, enabling us to look beyond the current situation and explore (realistic) options that help us plan for a better future. As Alexander Pope and Peter Durke put it, “hope springs eternal in the human breast”, as if this feeling was universal or even instinctive.” If we were to look back in history, where and who would humans be without hope? What if the first generation of humans had simply accepted their lives and sufferings as they were? What if they had no hope for a better reality? Would civilization as we know it even have come into existence?
A recent study by the University of Missouri-Columbia found that hope was strongly associated with a sense of meaning in life, more so than happiness, excitement or gratitude.
In the world of psychology, hope is usually only seen as a cognitive process that we need for goal setting and attainment. But this study argues that hope, in fact, has a much deeper effect on our lives as a whole. Hope is a “vital emotional experience that enriches life’s meaning,” and is not merely a tool for goal attainment (Edwards et al., 2025).
Researchers analyzed the findings of six studies with a total of 2,312 participants from diverse backgrounds. Among several emotions, such as amusement, contentment, excitement and happiness, hope came out, every time, as the strongest positive emotion and predictor for fostering a sense of meaning in one’s life. And having a sense of purpose is considered by many as one of the cornerstones for better psychological functioning, happiness, health, and fostering better relationships.
Everyone can benefit from these findings, especially therapists and counselors. “This insight opens new avenues for enhancing psychological well-being.” (Edwards et al., 2025).
Ways to Foster More Hope:
- Pay attention to and appreciate the positive moments, no matter how little.
- Seize opportunities even in times of chaos and uncertainty. Baby steps create momentum and should not be underestimated.
- Appreciate your ability and others’ ability to grow and develop. Take proper notice of progress.
- Participate in community-based activities such as volunteering or develop “hopeful” hobbies like gardening.
- You don’t have to reinvent the wheel. ”Stand on the shoulders of giants” and learn from people who have overcome similar difficulties.
