A few weeks ago, I listened to a Martin Seligman lecture about PERMA, a framework he developed to represent wellbeing and happiness. In its original version, PERMA stands for Positive Emotion, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning and Accomplishment. However, Seligman acknowledges a recent shift towards Mattering in place of Meaning.
For Seligman, meaning comes from belonging to and/or serving something greater than ourselves. And it is very personal. Viktor Frankl wrote that meaning "differs from man to man and from moment to moment. Thus, it is impossible to define the meaning of life in a general way. [...] Man should not ask what the meaning of his life is, but rather he must recognize that it is he who is asked." As such, meaning can be quite elusive.
The concept of mattering refers to the feeling that we have significance and value in the world around us. It's a fundamental human need to feel like we make a difference and that our presence is appreciated. Its two main components are significance - thus feeling like we count and are not invisible, that our thoughts, feelings, and actions are acknowledged by others - and value - feeling that we hold importance to others and contribute something worthwhile.
When it comes to wellbeing, mattering better reflects the focus on actionable steps and external validation that can contribute to wellbeing. It's easier to identify concrete ways to feel like you matter in your daily life than finding ultimate meaning, which can be a more philosophical pursuit.
Yet, I believe the two are connected, and mattering can be a great way to find meaning. By doing something that matters, we create impact and receive meaning in exchange.