models + TERMS
The majority of the research on this site uses a definition of purpose and quantification approach that measures eudamonia and reflects, or is derivative of, the work of two psychologists, James Crumbaugh and Leonard Maholick.  Inspired by Victor Frankl’s book, Man’s Search for Meaning, in 1964, they developed the 20-question Purpose in Life (PIL) test.  The PIL test quantifies the extent to which A. one believes that life has a purpose, B. one can uphold a personal value system and C. has the motivation to achieve future goals and overcome future challenges.  Researchers are able to correlate eudamonia and PIL scores with numerous variables and outcomes in career, well-being and culture.

Other researchers define purpose similarly:
  • directedness that produces a meaningful life, integration of the various facets of life into a comprehensive whole (Ryff, 1989)
  • motivational element for meaning from which we delineate the overall intent or reason for life and what we will do with our lives (Steger, 2009, 2012)
  • the psychological sense of direction one has for life, and the social contribution or collective benefit one's life provides (Keys, 2011)
  • unique and foundational life orientation that is active, forward-looking and impactful in the world (Rockind, 2011)
  • it is our true self pulls from our unique strengths, passions, values, interests and abilities; provides direction and creates goals that serve to focus action; something we have to strive and live for versus an end goal; makes life meaningful; provides a benefit or connection to someone or something other than self; and something we must deliberately choose to follow (Rainey, 2014) 

​"Purpose" and "eudamonia" are not terms, ideas or capacities invented in the 20th century, but have roots in various traditions and fields.
Related Cross-cultural Terms and Models
Below you will find a collection of related terms and models from various fields and traditions, in alphabetical order.
Relevant models, by source, in alphabetical order:
Global Perspectives on Purpose
The majority of research done on purpose has been done in Western countries, however, there is a growing body of research on purpose from non-Western countries. Below are a few global perspectives.
  • Finland. Purpose is defined as knowing one's goals in life, having meaning life and having a hopeful future. (Tirri, Moran, 2019)
  • Spain. Purpose is defined as a life project with two paths: 1. family, career and community or 2. searching for unique personal meaning and contribution. (Mariano & Moran, 2014)
  • Brazil. Purpose is defined as a life project that is both a plan for one's life and something that projects into the future. It guides actions, choice and goals and is meaningful to the self and the wider world. It includes the well-being of others and is expressed in work and family. (Araujo, 2014)
  • South Africa. Purpose is defined as contributing to others, taking care of family, and having and pursuing meaningful goals. (Journal of Education for Teaching, 2016)