These days, some of us are experiencing less hope than we would like. While hope is an important positive emotion, it may be the least studied component of well-being (Edwards et al., 2025; Graham & Pozuelo, 2023). Yet it is vital for resilience in many areas of our lives and can help to buffer us during difficult times.
A large-scale 2026 study of 25,000 adults over a 14-year period shows important links between hope and people’s contemporary and future outcomes in an array of life dimensions (Graham & Mujcic, 2026). According to the authors, this key study is the first large-scale research that shows a linkage between hope and several long-term outcomes. The researchers found that people with high hope levels show improvements in education, economic outcomes, resilience, and the ability to adapt. Their research shows less likelihood for loneliness, along with improvements in perceived wellbeing and objective measures of health. In addition, according to the study, hope can function as a psychological buffer during challenging times.
According to the researchers, “We find a strong link between high levels of hope and better contemporary and future outcomes in the wellbeing, economic, health and social arenas…” (Graham & Mujcic, 2026).
Hope is not simply wishing things will get better. Instead, hope involves determination and taking action to make things better (Feldman et al., 2026; Snyder, 1994). Snyder’s framework of hope defines it as setting a goal, devising strategies to achieve it (pathways), and developing motivation to reach that goal (agency). According to Feldman et al. (2026), mindfulness supplements the hope process by grounding us in awareness of the present. This can help stabilize our ability to pay attention to our goals, which can enhance intentionality.
Cognitive psychologist Michelle Chappel, in her book, The Power of Authenticity, reminds readers to “dwell in possibilities” and to “try on something new,” encouraging us to continue learning and growing throughout our lives (2026, p. 131 & 134).
Our attention is a vital component of hope, as Feldman, Shapiro, and Dreher (2026) explain in a new study on the convergence of hope and mindfulness. The researchers find that although mindfulness and hope have distinct roles and mechanisms, both are positively associated with psychological well-being. Moreover, mindfulness may support inner resources and skills that can help us set goals and navigate pathways toward reaching our goals, which are key aspects of hope.
Opening to the realm of hope and possibilities can be useful in any season of life, from young adulthood to mid-adulthood to older adulthood. Many of us are interested in gaining fuller understandings about how to live the best lives we can at any stage – learning strategies to thrive in the face of our vulnerabilities and whatever life throws at us.
Engaging in mindfulness and harnessing actionable hope can be important strategies contributing to the ability to adapt, live with well-being, and access life’s possibilities.
© 2026 Ilene Berns-Zare, LLC, All Rights Reserved
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. No content is a substitute for consulting with a qualified mental health or healthcare professional.
