Abstract: Meaning in life is generally defined in terms of purpose and significance of life, or it is considered to be a multidimensional construct. Cognitive, motivational, and affective dimensions are most commonly mentioned in literature as the components of meaning in life. Many researchers accept the former two dimensions, but they still have controversy about whether the affective one exists. Meaning in life is essential for individual’s well-being, influencing many factors related to happiness. At present, researches rarely examine the motivational dimension (named the search for meaning in life), and few is seen about how to find and increase meaning in life. Future studies should be developed on these two aspects.

Key words: meaning in life, well-being, motivational dimension, cognitive dimension, the search for meaning in life, the presence of meaning in life