We often think of hope as something connected to goals or motivation, but this research shows it is much more than that.
Research from the University of Missouri is giving us a fresh way to think about wellbeing. Instead of happiness or gratitude being the key to a meaningful life, the researchers found that hope is actually the strongest predictor. After studying more than 2,300 people across six different studies, they discovered that while many positive emotions feel good, only hope consistently helped people feel that their lives had real purpose.
We often think of hope as something connected to goals or motivation, but this research shows it is much more than that. Hope is an emotion in its own right, one that shapes how we see both our present and our future. It helps us make sense of our experiences and gives us a sense of direction, not just something to aim for later on.
A strong sense of meaning in life is linked to many positive outcomes: better mental health, healthier relationships, improved physical wellbeing, and even greater financial stability. Because hope strengthens our sense of meaning, it becomes a powerful resource that supports resilience and overall functioning.
Importantly, hope is not about ignoring reality or pretending everything is fine. It is the ability to imagine that things can improve, even when life feels challenging. It is grounded, realistic, and connected to our natural capacity to picture future possibilities.
The encouraging news is that hope can be nurtured. Small, everyday actions like noticing moments of joy, recognising personal growth, spending time on activities that replenish us, and looking for opportunities even in uncertain times, can all help build a hopeful mindset.
Hope becomes especially valuable during tough periods. Believing that circumstances can change helps us cope with stress, stay steady, and keep moving forward. It doesn’t remove hardship, but it gives us a way to endure it.
This research reminds us that fostering hope in ourselves and in our children, is a powerful way to support long‑term wellbeing and a meaningful life.
Below are simple, practical ways families can build hope at home.
Practical Skills for Parents and Families
- Notice small wins each day: Encourage children to reflect on moments that went well. A simple question like “What was one good thing today?” helps them pay attention to positive experiences.
- Use future‑focused language: Model hopeful thinking with phrases such as “Things can change” or “We’ll figure this out together.” This teaches children that challenges are workable.
- Highlight growth and progress: Shift the focus from outcomes to effort. Comments like “You’re getting better at this” help children see themselves as capable and developing.
- Create predictable ‘hope anchors’: Routines—such as weekend plans, after‑school rituals, or family traditions—give children a sense of stability and something to look forward to.
- Engage in nurturing activities: Activities like gardening, caring for pets, cooking, or helping others build a sense of purpose and connection to the future.
- Reframe setbacks: When things go wrong, guide children to see the situation as temporary and solvable rather than permanent or overwhelming.
Further Reading: Research link: Hope is the key to a meaningful life (University of Missouri, 2025) Book recommendation: 8 Ways to Hope: Charting a Path Through Uncertain Times by William R. Miller (2024).
Dr David Mander & Mrs Manja Whaley