A tidal wave of advice urging people to “find your purpose” pervades both social media feeds and motivational seminars, but new research shows that this well-meaning mantra can sow unexpected stress, giving rise to a phenomenon known as “purpose anxiety.” As modern life evolves and traditional sources of meaning, like religion and family roles, erode, Thais and global citizens alike increasingly grapple with uncertainty about how—or even whether—they should define a purpose for their lives. Experts suggest that rather than clarifying life’s direction, the pressure to seek purpose can trigger feelings of inadequacy, uncertainty, and distress, but there are healthy and culturally grounded ways to manage this modern mental burden.
For generations, Thai parents, teachers, and Buddhist monks have encouraged the search for meaning as essential to a good life. Yet today’s environment, marked by shifting economic opportunities, declining birth rates, and changing religious affiliations, means these guideposts are less certain than they once were. Recent research highlighted in the Associated Press and echoed by scholars like Professor Michael Steger of Colorado State University reveals growing numbers of people—especially the youth—afflicted by purpose anxiety: a “gnawing sense that life should have an overarching purpose, but it’s unclear how to discover it.” Thai educators and health professionals are beginning to notice similar trends within the Kingdom, where academic and career pathways are increasingly competitive, and social expectations about success are in flux.
Purpose itself is a flexible concept, scholars note. Some experts, including Professor Todd Kashdan of George Mason University, urge people to view purpose not as a rigid mission statement but as a “compass” that helps direct energy towards a meaningful life. “A sense of purpose can help close that gap between who you are and what you ideally want to become,” said Professor Kashdan. He adds that, contrary to popular belief, it is entirely possible to lead a fulfilling life without ever articulating a single grand purpose. This insight challenges the social messaging found in countless success seminars across Bangkok and Chiang Mai, as well as in the narratives embedded in influential Thai dramas where protagonists relentlessly chase a singular goal.
Scientific evidence supports the benefits of feeling purposeful: people who identify a life purpose are more likely to enjoy physical health, mental stability, and resilience in adversity (source). Large studies in both Western and Asian populations, including Thai cohorts, find correlations between meaningful engagement—whether through paid employment, community involvement, or spiritual practice—and higher subjective well-being (PubMed study). However, the same studies caution that the relentless emphasis on achieving a supernatural sense of mission can weigh heavily on those who do not feel called to a clear path, leading to anxiety, depression, and, in severe cases, existential crisis (WHO analysis).
The phrase “purpose anxiety” gained traction only recently, first appearing in 2014 in the academic work of a University of Pennsylvania graduate student, Larissa Rainey, and since popularized by authors such as Elizabeth Gilbert, whose memoir, “Eat, Pray, Love,” ignited a global movement in self-search. In a telling interview, Gilbert described society’s obsession with purpose as “the formula we’ve all been fed”—a formula that ironically leaves many feeling isolated or adrift when they don’t measure up.
The erosion of old sources of meaning provides crucial context. Psychotherapist and author Jody Day explains, “A lot of the places that we’ve naturally found meaning in our culture in the last hundred years are falling away.” While religion once provided purpose to many Thais, recent surveys by the Pew Research Center and local research bodies note a gradual shift: the proportion of Thais who identify as actively religious has declined in the context of modernization, although trends may be stabilizing (Pew 2025 survey). Meanwhile, traditional family roles are under pressure as more Thais delay marriage and child-rearing, or opt not to have children at all—prompting new questions about identity, value, and community (Bangkok Post feature).
Against this complex backdrop, experts advise reframing the purpose-seeking journey as an ongoing process rather than an immediate, high-stakes quest. “Take your time and be all right not always knowing,” recommends Professor Steger, emphasizing that meaning emerges from understanding “who you are and what you have to work with, understanding what you care about, what you’d like to see be better, either in yourself or in the world.” For Thai society, where process and patience are virtues taught from an early age—mirrored in Buddhist mindfulness practices and even in the motto sabai sabai (be easy, relax)—this approach aligns well with cultural wisdom.
Practical strategies for easing purpose anxiety include engaging in small, satisfying activities—what author Jordan Grumet terms “little p purpose”—from gardening in a temple courtyard or participating in a local mo lam dance group, to volunteering or learning new skills online (source). “What could I do that would light me up and fill me up and be a good use of my time?” asks Grumet, noting that such pursuits can become bridges to new friendships and communities, even if they do not reveal a single grand calling. This advice resonates with emerging trends among Bangkok’s urban middle class and rural youth alike, who increasingly report finding meaning in community events, local entrepreneurship, and arts or crafts rooted in regional culture.
Differences do remain in how people define and experience purpose. Not all psychologists agree that hobbies are a replacement for a deep sense of meaning. Professor Kashdan distinguishes between interests such as reading and purposeful living, deeming the former as “seeds” that, with further nurturing, may develop into new directions in life. In Thai culture, where the journey of self-improvement (panya) and the community’s well-being (sangkhom) are often entwined, this nuanced perspective helps reduce all-or-nothing thinking about personal mission.
Life events can also dramatically reshape one’s understanding of purpose. As illustrated in the AP report, psychotherapist Day’s realization that she would not become a mother led her to form online and offline groups supporting childless women—a powerful example of how unexpected changes can open new avenues for meaning. Thai society, long rooted in large extended families and filial duty, is also adapting to changing family structures; there is growing recognition among educators, NGOs, and health officials that support for new forms of community is increasingly important (Thai Health Promotion Foundation).
Addressing purpose anxiety in Thailand will require attention not only from individuals and families, but also policymakers, educators, and religious leaders. There is concern that unchecked anxiety about purpose could exacerbate Thailand’s already significant rates of depression and suicide, particularly among young adults (Ministry of Public Health data). National campaigns encouraging self-acceptance, mental health awareness, and process-focused education are key tools. Some universities are experimenting with new forms of career counseling and life skills classes that frame purpose not as a singular objective, but as a dynamic set of interests and relationships developed over time (Chulalongkorn University news).
Looking ahead, as the digital age enables Thais to compare themselves with successful counterparts around the globe—often prompting unrealistic standards—there will likely be even greater demand for support systems that foster patience, resilience, and authentic connection. The shift from rigid, predetermined life paths to more fluid explorations of meaning mirrors broader cultural changes and presents an opportunity for society to reclaim the wisdom of gradual self-discovery. As Professor Steger emphasizes, the journey towards meaning is itself meaningful.
Thai readers can take practical action by focusing on the present: try out new hobbies, deepen community involvement, or join mindfulness-based programs available at local temples and community health centers. Educators and parents can nurture process-focused thinking in children, encouraging exploration and honest discussions about uncertainty. Most importantly, the abundance of Thai cultural resources—from Buddhist insight retreats to communal festivals—provides accessible, time-tested routes for finding meaning in everyday life, without the pressure of a single, world-changing mission.
For those feeling the weight of purpose anxiety, remember: Sookjai (สุขใจ)—contentment—is already within reach through small acts, genuine relationships, and the ongoing practice of living with intention, one day at a time.
Sources: Associated Press, Pew Research Center, PubMed, Thai Health Promotion Foundation, World Health Organization, Chulalongkorn University News, Bangkok Post