Life Satisfaction Theory (LST) offers a comprehensive framework for understanding how individuals assess their overall well-being by evaluating life rather than focusing on specific milestones or isolated happy events. According to LST, life satisfaction is a subjective measure rooted in how closely one's current situation aligns with one's desired goals, values, and expectations. Essentially, it is a comparison between where a person is in life and where they want to be, and it can range from high satisfaction to low dissatisfaction.

 

When people evaluate their lives positively, seeing a close alignment between their current situation and their aspirations, they experience satisfaction. This satisfaction fosters positive emotions such as happiness, pride, and contentment, contributing to overall well-being.

 

Conversely, dissatisfaction sets in when there is a significant gap between where a person is and where they want to be. This negative evaluation can lead to frustration, sadness, or disappointment, often lowering overall well-being.

 

Life satisfaction is not static; it evolves as goals, priorities, and circumstances change. For example, a person may feel satisfied during one phase of life but dissatisfied later if new goals emerge or old aspirations remain unfulfilled. Both internal factors, such as personal values, and external factors, like economic stability or health, play critical roles in shaping life satisfaction.

 

The theory highlights that satisfaction comes from aligning one's reality and goals. When this alignment is present, life feels fulfilling and meaningful. When it is absent, dissatisfaction arises, and overall well-being diminishes.

 

Life Satisfaction Theory reminds us that well-being is more than achieving isolated successes—it's about a continuous balance between where we are and where we hope to be.