Americans who have a strong sense of purpose experience much higher vitality, better health outcomes, stronger social ties, and greater engagement at work. However, fewer than 1 in 3 American adults – just 29% – classify as having a strong sense of purpose, according to new research by The Cigna Group. 

The fourth annual Vitality in America report surveyed 5,000 U.S. adults nationwide to measure their vitality, which is defined as the ability to pursue life with health, strength, and energy. This year, the research provides an in-depth examination of purpose as a key factor in overall vitality. The addition of purpose supports a broader, more holistic understanding of health – one that goes beyond physical and mental well-being to include the motivational and relational aspects of what it means to live a healthy, energized life.

A key finding: Purpose also appears to have a significant positive effect on people who live with a chronic health condition. In fact, people who have a mental health condition and a strong sense of purpose are far less likely to report symptoms associated with anxiety and depression, such as lack of enthusiasm or difficulty controlling worry, compared to those without a strong sense of purpose.  

Vitality in America holds steady

Overall, Americans’ vitality levels remain stable in 2025, with most people reporting medium vitality and an average score of 69.3 on a scale of 100. Additionally, demographic findings remain consistent.

• Men report higher vitality scores and better perceived health than women.
• Married adults or those living with someone have higher scores in vitality and perceived health than singles.
• Parents have greater vitality scores and perceived health than non-parents.
• Workers report higher vitality scores and better perceived health than those not working and not retired.
• People with higher vitality are more engaged in their health.

The power of purpose on overall health

The research measures purpose by asking respondents how strongly they agreed with statements on how autonomy and competence shape their direction and motivation in life. People with a strong sense of purpose have significantly higher vitality than those who do not (88.9 vs. 61.3). They are five times more likely to say they feel energized (63% vs. 13%), and nearly three times as likely to look forward to each new day (86% vs. 31%). 

The report shows that people with a strong sense of purpose tend to act with intention and autonomy regarding their personal health, social connections, and contributions to the workplace.

People with purpose take charge of their health

Having a strong sense of purpose is linked to greater ownership over physical health – 84% of adults with strong purpose say they feel in control over their future health, vs. 55% of those without strong purpose. Additionally, Americans with a strong sense of purpose are more likely to exercise regularly, get restful sleep, and seek preventive care – all of which contribute to better health outcomes.   

Purpose also appears to be a beneficial tool for managing chronic health conditions. Typically, adults with chronic conditions have much lower vitality scores than those without chronic conditions. However, adults with chronic conditions and a strong sense of purpose have a significantly higher vitality score, nearly matching the scores of people without health conditions.

Given the critical role of mental health in overall vitality, the impact of purpose on people with a mental health condition is notable. Research shows that people with a mental health condition who also have a strong sense of purpose are significantly less likely to report symptoms of depression or anxiety, such as lack of enthusiasm or difficulty controlling worry, compared to those without a strong sense of purpose.

People with purpose prioritize social connections

People with a strong sense of purpose prioritize relationships and community involvement, which leads to a greater sense of belonging and lower rates of loneliness. These adults are also more engaged in their community, with 42% reporting they volunteer, compared to just 26% of those who do not have a strong sense of purpose.

People with purpose feel positive and connected at work

Workers who have a strong sense of purpose are often more productive, focused, and energized at work, and are less likely to seek new jobs – all of which can have a significant impact on a business’s bottom line. They score better than their coworkers who struggle with purpose on two major indicators of productivity: absenteeism, or missing work for any reason, and presenteeism, which means to be physically at work but mentally elsewhere, which is shown to be costly for employers.

Although workers with a strong sense of purpose feel the same degree of job pressure and demands as those without, they are significantly less likely to report feeling burned out or that they are considering leaving their job. This type of work resilience can yield significant savings for employers.

“Having a sense of purpose gives people energy and helps them feel happier and healthier,” said Stuart Lustig, MD, national medical executive for behavioral strategy and product design, Cigna Healthcare. “When you know what matters to you, you’re more likely to bounce back from tough times, build strong friendships, and take care of yourself, which impacts your overall physical health.”