Problem: I've been feeling disoriented about life for a long time, unable to find true joy or purpose in anything.
Problem: I've been feeling disoriented about life for a long time, unable to find true joy or purpose in anything.
Finding the meaning of life: Am I truly happy?
Lukas Fischer, 35, Marketing Manager, Zurich, Switzerland
I'm Lucas, a marketing manager by profession. I live in Zurich, Switzerland, I have a pretty good job, a regular income, friends—everything seems perfect. But you know, I feel like something is missing. Every morning, I go to the office, I come home in the evening, I occasionally meet friends—but nothing touches me deeply.
My life looks good, but there's a void inside. As a child, I thought I'd do great things when I grow up, change the world. But now it feels like life is just a cycle—the same old thing over and over again. There's no depth, no real joy.
I don't know if this is just a temporary feeling, or if I have truly lost the meaning of life. What can I do to regain my excitement for life? How do I know I'm not on the wrong path?
Askly Help's compassionate solution
Dear Lucas,
What you're feeling is very normal. Many people reach a certain point in their lives when they suddenly discover that despite having everything, something seems to be missing. This is called "existential emptiness" — where life goes on, but it becomes difficult to find true meaning.
But the good news is that this emptiness doesn't mean it's all over. Rather, it can be a new beginning—an opportunity to understand the depth of life. Let's take a step-by-step look at how you can reconnect with your life.
1. What do you really want?
We often forget what we ourselves want while chasing the goals set by society. Do you really love your work, or is it just a means to an end? Do you want to do something that inspires your soul?
You can do a simple exercise—take a notebook, and write:
- Three moments when you were truly happy.
- Three things that create interest in you.
- A change that you want to bring into your life.
These will help you understand where you want to go.
2. Find small excitements
Life doesn't always require dramatic changes, but rather small things can provide opportunities for innovation. Maybe it's learning a new skill, exploring a new city, or doing something you've never tried before.
Make a "Try Something New" list and try at least one new thing every week. You'll see that life is slowly regaining its color.
3. Build meaningful relationships
Connecting with people is one of the main sources of depth in our lives. You may have many people around you, but how much real connection do you have? Talk deeply with someone, try to make a real difference in someone's life—it will make your life meaningful too.
4. Look at everyday life with gratitude.
If we are not grateful for what we have, we lose the ability to see the beauty in life. Write down at least three things every day that you are grateful for. This will help you see the positive aspects of life.
5. Go to nature, give yourself time.
Nature purifies our thoughts. Sometimes go alone to a mountain or to the sea. Turn off your phone, just spend time with yourself. You will slowly start hearing the voice of your inner self.
6. Do something for others.
Science says that doing something for others brings us happiness. Get involved in some volunteer work, try to make a small positive difference in someone's life. You will find that your own life becomes much more meaningful.
Last words: You will find your way.
Lucas, you are not alone—this emptiness is felt by many, and it is an important step in life. But if you slowly reach out to new things, try to find your passions, and create deeper connections with people—then one day these questions will no longer haunt you. Instead, you will begin to love life in a new way.
So start today—have a new experience, listen to your inner voice, and discover life in a new way.
Best wishes,
Askly Help