Meaning Really Matters

Key Findings

• People with purpose in their lives tend to be happier and describe themselves as living the Good Life

• Living the Good Life is strongly related to having a sense of purpose and this in turn is interrelated with vision (having clarity about the path to the “Good Life”) and focus (knowing and concentrating on the most important things that will get you to your Good Life ).

• Meaning, closely associated with the importance of family and friends, remains the primary component of the Good Life for all age groups, despite instability in financial and other aspects of their life. People plan to spend time with family and friends above all else, regardless of age.
  

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Methodology

In September, 2009, 1,675 individuals between the ages of 25 and 74 participated in the online survey conducted by Chadwick Martin Bailey, a global custom market research and consulting firm. They were invited to join via email. Respondents ages 25-44 had household incomes of $25,000 or more and investable assets of $25,000 or more ($50,000 or more for 35-44-year-olds). Those ages 45-74 had household incomes of $50,000 or more ($25,000 or more if retired) and investable assets of $50,000 or more.

Related Content

Research & Studies

Discovering What Matters: Balancing Money, Medicine and Meaning

Other Resources

Meaning Really Matters Highlights
Discovering What Matters: Your Guide to the Good Life
Family Matters: Retirement Preparation Tips for Different Family Types.