How ‘purpose anxiety’ affects people and what you can do about it

Understanding "Purpose Anxiety"

In recent years, a new form of psychological tension has drawn attention from researchers — purpose anxiety. Psychologist Larissa Rainey described it as the emotional stress people experience when they feel pressured to find or define a greater meaning in life. Unlike general anxiety, this form is fueled by cultural and social narratives that suggest every person must identify their “true calling.”

“Many people believe there’s something wrong with them if they haven’t discovered their life’s purpose by a certain age,” Rainey explains.
“That belief alone can create feelings of inadequacy and restlessness.”

Why It Happens

Western culture increasingly romanticizes purpose-driven living, urging individuals to connect careers, relationships, and personal happiness to a single mission. Social media amplifies this by highlighting others’ achievements, making people doubt their own progress. The result is inner tension: an idea that one must not only succeed but also constantly know why.

Researchers note that younger generations, especially Millennials and Gen Z, are more vulnerable. They face economic instability and social comparison yet are told that fulfillment depends on having a well-defined purpose.

Signs of Purpose Anxiety

Key symptoms include:

These feelings often overlap with burnout and existential anxiety, though purpose anxiety centers specifically on identity and meaning.

Coping and Finding Perspective

Experts recommend approaching purpose as a flexible journey rather than a fixed destination. Rainey suggests mindfulness practices, open reflection, and focusing on values instead of a single mission statement.

Steps that may help include:

  1. Reframing purpose as evolving and temporary.
  2. Limiting social media exposure to avoid unhealthy comparison.
  3. Engaging in small, fulfilling actions that align with personal values.
  4. Seeking therapy or life counseling to unpack deeper insecurities.

“The idea isn’t to eliminate uncertainty,” Rainey says,
“but to learn comfort within it.”

The Path to Meaningful Balance

Purpose should enhance life, not dominate it. By viewing meaning as something built gradually through actions and relationships, rather than discovered in a moment of clarity, people reduce self-imposed pressure and restore emotional well-being.

Author’s Summary:
Purpose anxiety stems from cultural pressure to find meaning; easing it requires flexible thinking, mindful living, and acceptance of evolving personal goals.

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Los Angeles Daily News Los Angeles Daily News — 2025-11-23

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