Purpose vs Meaning: What's the Difference?

Generally about direction, intention or contribution. It describes what you are moving toward or what you want your life or work to serve.

Concerns the significance or value you experience in something. It describes why something matters to you — the sense that an activity or relationship is genuinely worthwhile.

A person may find meaning in caring for an elderly parent. Their sense of purpose may involve serving people through caregiving more broadly. A career can provide meaning because the work matters deeply — and purpose because it gives a way to contribute.

Meaning does not have to come exclusively from employment. Family, faith, relationships, community and service can all contribute to a person's sense of meaning. Career decisions should not place the entire burden of meaning on a job title. A healthy career can be one meaningful part of a meaningful life.