Psychologists Propose a New Path to a Fulfilling Life: Embracing Curiosity and Challenge

Recent research highlights an alternative approach to achieving a fulfilling life, emphasizing psychological richness through varied and perspective-altering experiences. Traditionally, well-being has been linked to happiness—feeling positive emotions—or to a sense of purpose and meaning. However, a new study published in Trends in Cognitive Sciences, led by Dr. Erin Westgate from the University of Florida in collaboration with Dr. Shigehiro Oishi from the University of Chicago, introduces a third dimension: psychological richness.

This concept suggests that a rewarding life isn't solely about happiness or meaningfulness but also about engaging in experiences that challenge, surprise, and expand our perspectives. These experiences, which might be difficult or lack immediate purpose, can deepen one's understanding of themselves and the world.

According to Dr. Westgate, the idea emerged from questioning why some individuals still feel unfulfilled despite leading happy or meaningful lives. The missing element, she posits, is psychological richness — moments that challenge perceptions and satisfy curiosity. Their research indicates that for some, choosing experiences that are intellectually stimulating or challenging, even if unpleasant or unsettling, contributes significantly to a psychologically rich life.

This perspective broadens the understanding of well-being, emphasizing that growth often involves discomfort and surprise. Examples include major life challenges like living through a hurricane or rigorous educational pursuits; these may not be pleasant but can profoundly alter one’s worldview. Studies from Westgate's lab also show that experiencing adversity can lead to personal growth and perspective shifts without necessarily being enjoyable.

The term "psychologically rich life" was first introduced in 2022 and sums up the idea that experiences fostering diverse viewpoints and personal challenge are crucial to well-being. Westgate and Oishi argue that while happiness and meaning are important, they are not exhaustive. For many, challenges and surprises—such as traveling, encountering new ideas, or facing difficult circumstances—are equally valuable, even if they do not always lead to comfort or clarity.

This new understanding encourages a broader view of living well: embracing experiences that provoke thought, surprise, and growth. As Dr. Westgate explains, "Some of the most significant life experiences are the ones that challenge us, that surprise us, and that change how we see the world." The research invites both psychologists and the public to rethink the pillars of a good life, highlighting that challenge and curiosity are integral to personal development and fulfillment.