The Power of Meaning

by Emily Esfahani Smith
The Power of Meaning cover
Good Books rating 4.25
Nonfiction
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  • ID: 7762
  • Added: 2025-12-16
  • Updated: 2025-12-16
  • ISBN: 9780143194187
  • Publisher: National Geographic Books
  • Published: 2017-12-26
  • Reviews: 3

In 'The Power of Meaning,' Emily Esfahani Smith challenges the modern obsession with happiness, arguing that a meaningful life is far more satisfying. Drawing on cognitive science, literature, and philosophy, she introduces the four pillars of a meaning mindset: connections, purpose, storytelling, and transcendence. Smith's engaging voice and compelling stories make this book a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper sense of fulfillment. The book also offers practical advice on how to cultivate a meaning mindset in our personal lives, workplaces, and communities, making it a valuable guide for navigating life's challenges.

Reviews
A Lust for Life · 2025-12-16
inspirational 4.50

The book is described as deeply inspirational and highly recommended. The author's perspective resonates strongly with the reader's personal experiences.

This book is a truly inspirational read that has deeply resonated with the reviewer's life experiences. They feel a strong connection with the author's perspective and highly recommend it to others. The insights provided are both meaningful and impactful, making it a valuable addition to any reader's collection. The reviewer finds the book to be a kindred spirit in its approach to finding meaning in life.

Quick quotes

    It is such an inspirational read and I would highly recommend it.

    I feel that the author is a kindred spirit.

    It has resonated so much with my life experience.

Retirement Wisdom · 2017-12-09
valuable 4.25

The reviewer finds the book's discussion on storytelling particularly valuable, highlighting the powerful role it plays in our lives.

This review emphasizes the valuable insights provided by the book, particularly in the area of storytelling. The reviewer finds the discussion on this pillar especially powerful and relevant. The book is seen as a persuasive argument for the importance of meaning in everyday life. The insights provided are both practical and profound, making it a valuable read for those seeking to understand the role of storytelling in their lives. The reviewer appreciates the depth and relevance of the book's content.

Quick quotes

    I found Esfahani Smith's writing on the story-telling pillar, in particular, to be especially valuable.

    She describes the powerful role that storytelling plays in our lives.

    A persuasive argument for the importance of meaning in everyday life.

Goodreads · 2017-01-10
wise 4.00

The book is praised for its wise and stirring arguments about the search for meaning, which is considered more fulfilling than the pursuit of personal happiness.

This review highlights the book's wise and stirring arguments about the search for meaning in life. The reviewer believes that this pursuit is far more fulfilling than the quest for personal happiness. The book is seen as a valuable guide for those looking to deepen their understanding of life's purpose. The insights provided are both profound and thought-provoking, making it a worthwhile read for anyone seeking a more meaningful existence.

Quick quotes

    This wise, stirring book argues that the search for meaning can immeasurably deepen our lives.

    It is far more fulfilling than the pursuit of personal happiness.

    A valuable guide for those looking to deepen their understanding of life's purpose.

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