Why meditate?

These are the big motivators, as I see them, in order of prevalence.

1. Escape suffering. This is the classic Siddhartha motivation. From what I can tell, this the major motivation driving the current surge in mindfulness/meditation interest.
2. Performance. Some people meditate because they want performance benefits. Happens a lot in sports and business.
3. Achieve enlightenment. This is a more aspirational motivation.

Shinzen Young gives these five aspects of happiness that can be achieved through the application of mindful awareness.

• Reduce physical or emotional suffering.
• Elevate physical or emotional fulfillment.
• Achieve deep self knowledge.
• Make positive changes in objective behavior.
• Develop a spirit of love and service towards others.