Meaning in Life Test

The Existential Meaning Test is inspired by the Multidimensional Existential Meaning Scale (MEMS) authored by Paul T. P. Wong and colleagues. IDRlabs is not affiliated with either author or Trent University or any other institution.

The test provides feedback such as the following:

Comprehension: Refers to the extent to which individuals perceive their lives as comprehensible. A high score on this factor indicates a sense of clarity and purpose in life, with individuals having a strong understanding of their goals and direction. They are better equipped to make sense of the events that happen in their lives and tend to see their life experiences as interconnected and coherent. Conversely, a low score reflects a lack of direction and purpose in life, with individuals struggling to make sense of their experiences and feeling lost or confused about their goals. They may feel like their life lacks meaning and may experience a sense of detachment or disconnection from their surroundings.

Purpose: Denotes the extent to which individuals have specific goals and aims that motivate them in life. A high score on this factor indicates individuals have a clear sense of direction and a strong motivation to pursue their goals. They tend to have overarching goals that guide them and feel like their goals are worth striving for. Conversely, a low score reflects a lack of direction and motivation, with individuals feeling like they lack purpose or aim in life. They may lack a sense of overarching goals and may feel like their life lacks direction or meaning. As a result, they may struggle with motivation and feel like they lack a sense of fulfillment in their lives.

Significance: Refers to the extent to which individuals perceive their lives as significant and valued. A high score on this factor indicates that individuals feel like their life matters and that their existence has importance. They tend to have a sense of personal worth that is independent of others' opinions, and they feel like their life has meaning and purpose. Conversely, a low score reflects a sense of insignificance or worthlessness, with individuals feeling like their existence has little to no importance. They may be overly reliant on the opinions of others for their sense of self-worth, and they may feel vulnerable to anxiety and depression when faced with criticism or disapproval. Overall, a high score on this factor is associated with greater emotional well-being and a stronger sense of personal fulfillment.

Growth: Refers to the extent to which individuals perceive themselves as developing and evolving as individuals. A high score on this factor indicates individuals have a sense of personal progress and feel like they are continuously growing and improving. They tend to be open to new experiences and challenges and feel like they are constantly learning and developing new skills. Conversely, a low score reflects a lack of sense of personal growth, with individuals feeling like they are stuck in their current state or unable to develop further. They may feel stagnant or resistant to change, which can limit their personal and professional growth opportunities.

Acceptance: Denotes the extent to which individuals are accepting of themselves and their perceived limitations. A high score on this factor indicates individuals have a positive self-image and a sense of self-worth that is independent of external validation. They tend to be self-compassionate, forgiving of their mistakes and limitations, and accepting of their imperfections. Conversely, a low score reflects a negative self-image, with individuals feeling dissatisfied with themselves and their perceived limitations. They may be overly self-critical and harsh on themselves, which can lead to feelings of shame and inadequacy.

Others: Refers to the extent to which individuals perceive themselves as connected and valued in their relationships with others. A high score on this factor indicates individuals have strong and positive relationships with others, feeling valued and supported in their connections. They tend to be empathetic and supportive of others, which fosters strong and fulfilling relationships. Conversely, a low score reflects a sense of disconnection or lack of value in their relationships with others. Individuals may feel isolated or unsupported in their connections, which can lead to feelings of loneliness and detachment.

The Existential Meaning Test is inspired by the Multidimensional Existential Meaning Scale (MEMS), which was developed by Paul T. P. Wong who is affiliated with Trent University in Canada. While the Existential Meaning Test is based on the MEMS test, it cannot be used to provide clinical assessments or accurate evaluation of your personality. Clinical assessments should always be done in cooperation with a mental health professional. For more information about any of our online tests and quizzes, please consult our Terms of Service.