Wellbeing
Meaning in life
10 questions · 3 min
This questionnaire looks at two different sides of meaning in life. The first is how much your life already feels meaningful and purposeful to you. The second is how much you’re looking for meaning, for example by exploring what really matters to you.
The two aren’t opposites. You can feel your life is meaningful and still be searching, or feel unsure and not be searching at all. There are no right or wrong answers.
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What it shows
How meaningful your life feels to you, and how much you’re looking for meaning, as two separate scores.
What it doesn’t
A judgement of how worthwhile your life is, or a diagnosis.
Who it’s for
This questionnaire is for anyone reflecting on what makes their life feel worthwhile. It can be especially relevant at turning points, such as finishing studies, changing jobs, becoming a parent, retiring or coming through a difficult time, when old answers about what matters may no longer fit.
It’s also a calm way to put words to a vague feeling, whether that’s a strong sense of purpose, a restless search, or a bit of both. Taking it again after a few months can show how things are moving.
Questions people ask
What does the Meaning in Life Questionnaire measure?
It gives two separate scores. The first is how meaningful and purposeful your life feels to you right now; the second is how much you’re actively looking for meaning.
Is it bad to be searching for meaning?
No. Searching and feeling that life is meaningful aren’t opposites, and many people do both at once. Searching can simply mean you’re exploring what really matters to you.
How is the MLQ scored?
Each answer counts from 1 (absolutely untrue) to 7 (absolutely true), and each score adds up five statements for a total from 5 to 35. One statement is flipped. There’s no combined score and no official cut-offs, so the result uses rough thirds of the range.
Is this a judgement of my life?
No. It isn’t a verdict on how worthwhile your life is, and it isn’t a diagnosis. If life has felt empty for a while, or this goes along with low mood, talking with someone you trust or your doctor can help.
How often can I retake it?
About every three months. That’s long enough for things to change, so you can see how your sense of meaning develops.
Who developed the MLQ?
Psychologist Michael Steger and colleagues at the University of Minnesota, in 2006.
Where it comes from
Developed by psychologist Michael Steger and colleagues at the University of Minnesota in 2006.
Meaning in Life Questionnaire
On iPhone or iPad?
Sprout is an app there too, and this link opens the test straight away if you have it.
Coming soon to the App Store