The Problem With Meaning
Second, a meaningful life is more satisfying than a merely happy life. Happiness is about enjoying the present; meaning is about dedicating oneself to the future. Happiness is about receiving; meaningfulness is about giving. Happiness is about upbeat moods and nice experiences. People leading meaningful lives experience a deeper sense of satisfaction.
.. Meaningfulness tries to replace structures, standards and disciplines with self-regarding emotion.
.. There is no hierarchy of values that would help us select, from among all the things we might do, that activity which is highest and best to do.
.. Meaningfulness emerges when the fundamental question is, do we feel good?