A team of researchers from the Universities of Carleton (Canada) and Rochester Medical Center (New York) have determined that having a purpose in life is associated with a lower risk of mortality .
For their research they had the data of more than 6,000 participants of the Midus study from the USA who were followed for 14 years . The focus of the study was the subjective perception of having a purpose in life or not having one and other psychological factors that provide information about emotions and positive or negative relationships with others. During those 14 years, 569 participants died , discovering that those who had died had fewer positive relationships with others and a low concept of the importance of "giving meaning to life" through a goal, than the people who survived. .
The results, published in the journal Psychological Science , suggest that “the fact that the search for a direction in life , and the establishment of general goals of what you want to achieve can actually help you live longer, regardless of the moment you find your purpose, ”says study co-author Patrick Hill.
Researchers believe that having a goal in life can encourage people to follow a healthier lifestyle and be more positive , elements that could increase longevity.
