Summary

Emily Esfahani Smith is the author of The Power of Meaning: Crafting a Life That Matters. She writes about psychology, culture, and relationships. Her writing has appeared in the Wall Street Journal, New York Times, Time, The Atlantic, and other publications.

Discover Your Why – Free Coaching Call Valued at $250

In her book Emily argues that the search for meaning can immeasurably deepen our lives and is far more fulfilling than the pursuit of personal happiness. A great fit for The Hidden Why.

There is a myth in our culture that the search for meaning is some esoteric pursuit—that you have to travel to a distant monastery or page through dusty volumes to figure out life’s great secret. The truth is, there are untapped sources of meaning all around us—right here, right now. In this episode Emily  lays out the four pillars upon which meaning rests, belonging, purpose, storytelling and transcendence. Enjoy!

Key Take Outs

• Understanding the ego and the Self – what is true what is not.
• Deeper happiness comes not in pursuit of it but from how you live life.
• Belongingness and quality relationships is a choice.
• Purpose is found by contributing your greatness to others and the world.
• Storytelling. What is the story we tell ourselves? Is it one of redemption or one of contamination?
• Transcendence is the step beyond what is into something greater.
• Mindfulness via meditation the key to dissolving the disillusions of the Self and connecting with life more greatly.

Quick Round Questions

Do you have any routines and rituals that you believe contribute to your success?

Running outside. I either listen to audio book to inspire me or jog in silence for self-reflection and inspiration.

What advice would you give your 20-year-old self?

Don’t worry so much trying to shape your resume to get a career. Do what you’re interested in and following what you love and things will work out.

What is the meaning of success?

Making a difference in the life of others.

What is your number one productivity advice?

When you are idle or bored find something constructive to do with your time rather than jumping on social media of checking emails. Pick up a book or journal for that time.

Favourite Food

Chocolate and ice-cream

Favourite Leisure Activity

Reading

Favourite Book

The Road to Character by David Brooks

At the Existentialist Café: Freedom, Being, and Apricot Cocktails with Jean-Paul Sartre, Simone de Beauvoir, Albert Camus, Martin Heidegger, Maurice Merleau-Ponty and Others By Sarah Bakewell

Favourite Quote

“The noblest question in the world is what good may I do in it.” Benjamin Franklin

Do we all have a why?

Yes, we do. We all having something we can contribute to others.

What does living with passion and purpose mean?

Connecting with people through writing to help them understand and improve their lives.

How to find Emily Esfahani Smith

Her website Emily Esfahani Smith

Facebook and Twitter 

If you are looking to find your purpose and greater meaning in life schedule a time to have a free consulting call with me. You can use this link to set a time that suits.