Meaning, Purpose, and Leadership Thriving

ABSTRACT

This article advances a framework linking meaning‐making and purpose to leadership thriving. Drawing on leadership, positive psychology, and higher education literature, I position leadership as an interpretive and developmental process through which individuals construct meaning, sustain purpose, and cultivate coherent leadership identities. Meaning‐making is examined as a mechanism to shape how challenges are interpreted, while purpose functions as a motivational anchor to sustain engagement and direction. Leadership identity integrates these elements, supporting authenticity and developmental continuity. Implications for leadership education are discussed, emphasizing reflective practice, narrative development, and purpose exploration as core pedagogical strategies to foster thriving among undergraduate leaders.