“All things human, are short-lived and perishable” – Seneca

Our days are limited.

How we spend each day will influence the outcomes of this precious life.

In the hustle of daily life, it’s easy to lose consciousness of this force we do not control.

Instead of avoiding what can be a depressing thought, embrace each day as a gift as we are not guaranteed tomorrow.

Connect with your mortality.

1. Embrace your mortality as a source of energy.

Wake up and calibrate yourself that life is short.

Feel a sense of urgency and energy to accomplish something meaningful now.

You are not promised tomorrow – don’t put off important work.

Use today as if it’s your last day alive.

2. Allocate your life to meaningful work.

Commit to pursuits you believe in.

Abstain from most things in life that are a time suck without valuable outcomes for you and others.

For each activity during your workday, ask yourself if this activity is worthy of your time and essential to your best contribution.

Devote effort and commitment to pursuits that transcend just money.

3. Transition to a higher calling on your terms.

Don’t commit to anyone but yourself – today’s world is just business.

As opportunities arise out of luck or circumstance, pursue those that more aligned with your mission and purpose.

Do not wait, you don’t owe anybody other than yourself.

4. Master your allocation of time, talent and treasure.

Plan each day according to your priorities.

Invest in relationships with people that value your time and presence.

Avoid meetings and events without purpose and alignment with your goals.

Apply your unique talent to deliver the highest achievement.

Spend your money on things that align with your purpose.

Explore these questions.

  • What is worthy of your precious, limited time?
  • What would you regret if today was your last day?
  • What actions will you take today and this week to maximize this finite time?
  • Ask yourself throughout the day, “is what I am doing right now worthy of my valuable, limited time?”

Resources for Deeper Study

The resources below will inspire you to embrace life and make the most of the time you have.

See the Book List for more information on the books below.

The Laws of Human Nature by Robert Greene (Chapter 18 – Meditate On Our Common Mortality)

The Obstacle Is the Way by Ryan Holiday (Part III – Meditate On Your Mortality)

A Guide to the Good Life by William B. Irvine (Chapter 18 – Dying: On a Good End to a Good Life)

The Untethered Soul by Michael A. Singer (Chapter 17 – Contemplating Death)

Stillness is the Key by Ryan Holiday (Part III – On the Final Act)

Awareness by Anthony de Mello (chapters The Death of Me, Dead Ahead)

The Daily Stoic by Ryan Holiday (December: Meditation on Mortality)