Are You Languishing? Escape the Epidemic of Emptiness | Corey Keyes
Mar 20, 2025
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Corey Keyes, a renowned sociologist and psychologist, discusses the phenomenon of languishing—an emotional state of emptiness many experience despite societal success. He emphasizes the need to redefine fulfillment and success beyond superficial happiness, focusing on community and purpose. Keyes shares practices like mindfulness and the power of self-narratives that can help combat languishing. He highlights the importance of connection, play, and shared experiences in fostering mental wellness and vibrant living.
Languishing reflects an absence of emotional vitality, leading individuals to feel stagnant and disconnected from once fulfilling aspects of life.
Establishing a sense of purpose, even through small acts of kindness, significantly combats languishing and enhances emotional well-being.
Strong social connections and warm relationships are vital in overcoming feelings of isolation, promoting resilience, and restoring a sense of belonging.
Deep dives
Understanding Languishing
Languishing is described as a state where individuals feel a significant absence of meaning and emotional connection in their lives. It manifests as a sense of emptiness, where once fulfilling aspects of life become muted, leaving individuals feeling stagnant and disengaged. This condition is distinct from depression and burnout, as it emphasizes a lack of emotional vitality rather than the presence of negative emotions. Recognizing the signs of languishing allows individuals to identify when they have drifted away from what once brought them joy and fulfillment.
The Risks Involved with Languishing
The risk of developing more serious mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety, increases significantly for individuals who are languishing. Studies have shown that languishing correlates with a higher likelihood of experiencing major depressive episodes, particularly in comparison to those who are flourishing. The concept of languishing has been overlooked in mental health discussions and public health measures, despite its potential to serve as a warning sign for deeper issues. This highlights the need for greater awareness and proactive measures to address and measure languishing in mental health frameworks.
The Role of Purpose
Finding purpose in life is crucial for combating feelings of languishing, as it instills a sense of contribution and meaning through daily activities. However, purpose doesn’t have to be grand or life-altering; even small acts of kindness or support within one’s community can provide a sense of fulfillment. Engaging with others, sharing stories, and contributing to causes are all ways to foster a sense of purpose that can enhance emotional well-being. Recognizing that purpose comes in many forms can help individuals appreciate the value of their actions, no matter how minor they may seem.
Importance of Relationships
Building warm, trusting relationships is essential for overcoming languishing, as social connections provide a strong support network and a sense of belonging. Individuals often find it challenging to reach out for support when they are feeling vulnerable, but such connections can significantly alleviate feelings of isolation. The experience of being seen, heard, and valued by others can foster resilience and help individuals reclaim a sense of purpose. Cultivating these relationships promotes emotional health and opens doors to mutual support and understanding.
Incorporating Play into Daily Life
Incorporating elements of play into everyday life can enhance emotional well-being and counteract languishing by allowing individuals to engage in activities simply for enjoyment. Play fosters creativity and connection, emphasizing the importance of participation for its own sake rather than for tangible rewards. Finding joy in playful activities can reignite passion and spark interest in life, essential ingredients for flourishing. Encouraging this mindset shifts priorities away from the stresses of adult responsibilities, reminding individuals of the joy found in simple pleasures.
Are you languishing - feeling that gnawing sense of emptiness despite checking all the society's boxes?
Renowned sociologist Corey Keyes, author of "Languishing: How to Feel Alive Again in a World That Wears Us Down," reveals powerful practices to reignite your passion, purpose and human connections - the key ingredients to flourishing mental health. Discover an insightful path to feeling vibrantly alive.
