Hope—positive thinking and optimism that despite current adversity, things will change—is one of the most positive human emotions, regardless of present circumstances. How exactly does hope change current perspective? Research explains.
Hope Predicts Meaning in Life
Megan E. Edwards et al. (2025) explored the impact of hope as a robust predictor of meaning in life.[i] Meaning in life, defined as viewing life as coherent, significant, and with purpose, has been described as “essential to human functioning.”[ii] Among other benefits, it boosts well-being, reduces suicidal ideation, decreases anxiety and depression, and increases happiness.[iii]
Edwards et al. acknowledged that scholars typically emphasize three aspects of hope:
- an expectation that a hoped-for future is a possibility
- desiring that result
- positive feeling.
The researchers recognize hope as a “time-traveling positive emotion,” oriented toward the future. And because the future is tied to meaning, they note that future self-projection through mental simulation creates higher meaning in life.
Regarding the role of hope in tough times, Edwards et al. describe hope as an “unusual positive emotion” capable of boosting meaning in life in the midst of adversity, trauma, or uncertainty. Inherently tied to a better future, they note that people may feel hopeful even during times of difficulty, creating a sense of meaning even when other types of positive feelings are currently unattainable.
Hope Creates Meaning in Life
Through a series of six studies, Edwards et al. found that feelings of hope fueled the belief that life is meaningful. This was an important discovery in light of the recognition that meaning in life is an integral part of human functioning and a vital coping resource. They found that hope consistently predicted feeling a sense of meaning in life beyond other types of positive affect and emotions, demonstrating the unique role of hope for experiencing a meaningful life. Regarding potential permanence, Edwards et al. recognized that unlike other types of positive feelings, hope was enduring, forecasting a feeling of greater meaning in life over time.
Harnessing Hope
Practical suggestions for capturing hope and optimism include everything from practicing kindness, spending time with supportive friends and family, taking part in enjoyable activities, keeping a thankfulness journal, and engaging in prayer. And to successfully cultivate hope and happiness through any method, it is helpful to ensure foundational needs are met:
- Rest promotes resilience. Getting enough sleep at night and taking rest breaks during the day as needed prevents mental exhaustion and promotes feelings of health, important for emotional positivity.
- Solicit support. Supportive connections both personally and professionally will help drown out negative voices (including your own) that can compromise a positive sense of self and hope for the future. A good support system provides encouragement and grounding, overcoming negativity.
- You think what you eat. A healthy body thinks healthy thoughts. As we have all experienced, a positive outlook is easier when you feel good physically. Strategize your day to optimize nutrition, to fuel both physical and emotional well-being.
- Plan to be positive. Create a thankfulness list in addition to a bucket list. Contentment today facilitates a happy tomorrow. Even the process of planning desired experiences can improve our current outlook and future orientation.
Harness hope through improving the way you view the future, and practice proactivity in the present, because quality of life is priceless.
