Why Meaning Matters: The Power of Eudaimonic Wellbeing

Across workplaces and community spaces, people often find themselves searching for the same thing. They want to feel connected, valued, and part of something that has purpose. They want to feel that their efforts matter, whether they are contributing through their job, volunteering in their local area, or taking part in a project that brings people together. This shared desire sits at the heart of wellbeing, yet the kind of wellbeing that truly sustains us goes deeper than momentary happiness.

This deeper form is known as eudaimonic wellbeing. It focuses on meaning, purpose, personal growth, and contribution. It is not about feeling good in the moment, although enjoyment plays a role. It is about developing a life that feels worthwhile and aligned with our values. Research across psychology and wellbeing science shows that this form of wellbeing supports long-term happiness far more than short-term boosts in mood.

In our daily lives, hedonic wellbeing helps us feel lighter and more positive. It is the sense of comfort, joy, or pleasure we get from good conversations, creative tasks, a day that flows well, or even moments of calm during pressure. These emotional lifts matter and often give us the energy to keep going.

Eudaimonic wellbeing asks a different question. It focuses on who we are becoming and what gives our lives direction. In workplaces, this might appear when someone understands the purpose of their role or feels trusted to use their strengths. It might be the sense of progress that comes from learning a new skill or the satisfaction of contributing to a shared goal. For others, it is found in authentic relationships built with colleagues or in the pride that comes from making a meaningful difference.

The same story plays out in community settings. People often flourish when they can take part in something that reflects their identity, interests, or values. Whether they join a local project, volunteer their time, or work with others to create something new, they gain a sense of purpose and connection. They grow through learning, sharing stories, and being recognised for what they bring. The impact of their contribution gives them a reason to stay involved.

Across both environments, the conditions that support eudaimonic wellbeing look remarkably similar. People thrive when they feel seen, heard, and valued. They grow when they have opportunities to learn and develop. They connect deeply when they feel safe to be themselves. And they find meaning when they know their contribution matters.

These experiences are not dependent on large-scale programmes. They often grow through simple, everyday actions. A manager taking time to explain how someone’s work made a difference. A project lead inviting participants to shape activities themselves. A team creating a space where questions are encouraged and new ideas are welcomed. A community group celebrating the stories and experiences of those who take part. Each of these small moments helps build a sense of purpose, identity, and belonging.

When workplaces and communities support purpose, growth, and connection, people feel more grounded and resilient. They begin to understand their own strengths and see how their actions contribute to something larger. Over time, this creates deeper and more durable forms of wellbeing. It helps people navigate uncertainty, build confidence, and form relationships that enrich their lives.

Pleasure helps us enjoy today, whilst meaning helps us feel hopeful about tomorrow. Both matter, but it is eudaimonic wellbeing that creates a foundation strong enough to support long-term happiness. When people feel that they matter and can contribute to a shared purpose, they do more than function well, they flourish.

Workplaces and community projects may look different from the outside, but at their heart they are built on the same idea. People want to feel connected to something meaningful. When that need is supported, individuals thrive, teams strengthen, and communities grow more resilient. That is the real power of eudaimonic wellbeing, and it is why meaning matters just as much as mood in every part of our lives.