TED Talks Daily How to live a meaningful life | Brian S. Lowery (re-release)
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Jan 2, 2026 
Social psychologist Brian S. Lowery, a Stanford professor, explores the concept of a meaningful life. He discusses how chasing personal achievements can lead to emptiness, highlighting a tenure story as an example. Lowery defines three vital components of meaning: coherence, purpose, and significance. He emphasizes the importance of supporting others and finding meaning through relationships, like his mentorship with PhD student Miguel. Gratitude plays a crucial role, as it weaves connections that enrich our sense of significance.
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Tenure Success Still Felt Hollow
- Brian S. Lowery describes the pressure of a tenure clock and his intense focus to secure it.
- After achieving tenure he still asked, "Is this it?" and found the victory insufficient for lasting meaning.
Three Pillars Of Meaning
- Meaning has three components: coherence, purpose, and significance.
- Personal achievement often supplies coherence and purpose but can fail to provide significance.
Why Achievement Can Limit Significance
- Significance means transcending the self and continuing to matter beyond the present.
- Personal achievement focuses the self and therefore often limits long-term significance.