July 13th, 2009 @ 1:27 am by: Marc
50 Questions That Will Free Your Mind
These questions have no right or wrong answers.
Because sometimes asking the right questions is the answer.
- How old would you be if you didn’t know how old you are?
- Which is worse, failing or never trying?
- If life is so short, why do we do so many things we don’t like and like so many things we don’t do?
- When it’s all said and done, will you have said more than you’ve done?
- What is the one thing you’d most like to change about the world?
- If happiness was the national currency, what kind of work would make you rich?
- Are you doing what you believe in, or are you settling for what you are doing?
- If the average human life span was 40 years, how would you live your life differently?
- To what degree have you actually controlled the course your life has taken?
- Are you more worried about doing things right, or doing the right things?
- You’re having lunch with three people you respect and admire. They all start criticizing a close friend of yours, not knowing she is your friend. The criticism is distasteful and unjustified. What do you do?
- If you could offer a newborn child only one piece of advice, what would it be?
- Would you break the law to save a loved one?
- Have you ever seen insanity where you later saw creativity?
- What’s something you know you do differently than most people?
- How come the things that make you happy don’t make everyone happy?
- What one thing have you not done that you really want to do? What’s holding you back?
- Are you holding onto something you need to let go of?
- If you had to move to a state or country besides the one you currently live in, where would you move and why?
- Do you push the elevator button more than once? Do you really believe it makes the elevator faster?
- Would you rather be a worried genius or a joyful simpleton?
- Why are you, you?
- Have you been the kind of friend you want as a friend?
- Which is worse, when a good friend moves away, or losing touch with a good friend who lives right near you?
- What are you most grateful for?
- Would you rather lose all of your old memories, or never be able to make new ones?
- Is is possible to know the truth without challenging it first?
- Has your greatest fear ever come true?
- Do you remember that time 5 years ago when you were extremely upset? Does it really matter now?
- What is your happiest childhood memory? What makes it so special?
- At what time in your recent past have you felt most passionate and alive?
- If not now, then when?
- If you haven’t achieved it yet, what do you have to lose?
- Have you ever been with someone, said nothing, and walked away feeling like you just had the best conversation ever?
- Why do religions that support love cause so many wars?
- Is it possible to know, without a doubt, what is good and what is evil?
- If you just won a million dollars, would you quit your job?
- Would you rather have less work to do, or more work you actually enjoy doing?
- Do you feel like you’ve lived this day a hundred times before?
- When was the last time you marched into the dark with only the soft glow of an idea you strongly believed in?
- If you knew that everyone you know was going to die tomorrow, who would you visit today?
- Would you be willing to reduce your life expectancy by 10 years to become extremely attractive or famous?
- What is the difference between being alive and truly living?
- When is it time to stop calculating risk and rewards, and just go ahead and do what you know is right?
- If we learn from our mistakes, why are we always so afraid to make a mistake?
- What would you do differently if you knew nobody would judge you?
- When was the last time you noticed the sound of your own breathing?
- What do you love? Have any of your recent actions openly expressed this love?
- In 5 years from now, will you remember what you did yesterday? What about the day before that? Or the day before that?
- Decisions are being made right now. The question is: Are you making them for yourself, or are you letting others make them for you?
Please share your thoughts with us in the comments section below.
Photo by: Sanctuary
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68 Comments
July 13th, 2009 at 5:26 am
Hi Marc,
Asking the right question…in order to get ourselves thinking, really thinking - there is so much truth in this. When we can ask that question, at the right moment, and that gives us clarity of direction, how powerful this can be in our lives. And set us off in a direction that has deep meaning to us individually.
And I believe very much that this is where it’s at - when we can reach that spot of deep meaning in our own lives - getting to this spot is so life affirming. And these questions you’ve shared, they really can help us to get there…
July 13th, 2009 at 8:13 am
1:27 A.M! You’re taking early riser to an extreme
Wow talk about depth. I think I’ll do a journal on a few of of these questions over the next few weeks
25. is perhaps the most powerful question on the list in my opinion. So I’ll go ahead and share what I’m grateful for in this post.
I’m grateful for the internet which allows me to read the many inspiring blogs on the net. I’m thankful for my wonderful friends and family. I’m thankful for having the ability to choose to present at any given moment.
I’m thankful for all those who devote their entire lives to bettering humanity ( that includes you
I’m grateful my gift to write and express my ideas in a somewhat coherent manner. And last but not least I’m grateful for the amazing life in which I live.
Great questions. I won’t be able to sleep for the next few nights!
July 13th, 2009 at 8:23 am
These are some pretty deep questions that made me think. Thanks.
July 13th, 2009 at 10:04 am
I love these questions. So much to think about now!!!
July 13th, 2009 at 11:32 am
I like Number 2 the best - better to keep failing in my opinion… not that I do.
July 13th, 2009 at 11:52 am
This one`s my favorite:
What would you do differently if you knew nobody would judge you?
I will ask myself that every day, see what happens
July 13th, 2009 at 11:57 am
Great questions, Marc. Love ‘em, like that kind of stuff
Just posted yesterday a nice one simliar to question 12: “If you could share just five pieces of wisdom, what would they be?”
Thank you very much for sharing.
July 13th, 2009 at 12:05 pm
I totally agree with you with the introduction.A good question is sometimes more important than the answer.They all make us thin deeply.Love from Argentina
July 13th, 2009 at 12:52 pm
I think # 42 is interesting in shortening your life expectancy to be very attractive or famous. I most certainly would, since they usually live an easier life, doing things they enjoy or having others do things for them.. freeing their time to travel, particiapte in things they love and accomplish thier life goals at a far quicker rate than the average joe.. thus becoming happier with their life’s path and can easily die younger and happier.
July 13th, 2009 at 1:14 pm
Hi Marc,
I am thinking of printing all these questions out in hard copy. These questions does knocks some sense into us and it will be great if I can paste it in front of my work desk.
I love this point especially
“If life is so short, why do we do so many things we don’t like and like so many things we don’t do?”
So many of us are doing things that we don’t like and even though we knew that we do not like what we are doing, then why are we still doing it?
Cheers,
Vincent
July 13th, 2009 at 1:47 pm
I lmao at #8. As I’m already 46 the answer would be very carefully!
Some great questions, Marc.
July 13th, 2009 at 2:10 pm
great lists of questions. it’s got me thinking. it also makes me realize my “issues” or problems aren’t unique.
July 13th, 2009 at 2:20 pm
Great Post. thanks for it.
July 13th, 2009 at 2:56 pm
#21…the problem with the world at large, yeah? haha.
lots to think about. thanks.
July 13th, 2009 at 5:12 pm
I am a pastor, and I am thinking of foregoing a sermon this week. Instead, I am thinking of asking a handful of these questions with some space for silence to reflect. Which questions to present? I suspect the ones I choose has more to say about me in the space I am in my life. I would guess that other folks would pick different ones that spoke to them.
July 13th, 2009 at 5:23 pm
Good one…I love the questions..
I’ll select 5-10 most imp ques for myself.
if you could also select the 5-10 most imp questions and publish for the readers’ benefit, that would be great..
July 13th, 2009 at 5:51 pm
“Would you break the law to save a loved one?” This is Heinz’ dilemma from Kolberg’s Stages of Moral Development. It is not just important what you would do, but what your justifications for doing it are as well.
Great questions. Thanks:)
July 13th, 2009 at 6:49 pm
If we don’t like the answers you’ve been getting lately, try asking these 50 questions. You’re bound to get some new answers.
July 13th, 2009 at 9:06 pm
@Lance: It is true that asking yourself the right questions will inevitably lead you in the right direction.
@Bud: Thanks so much for the kind words… and for sharing your thoughts with us. We all have so much to be grateful for.
@Frank: Failing is the first step to learning (by experience).
@Andre: Great question! Thanks for sharing it.
@Clora: Interesting perspective. Personally, I would choose the 10 years over the fame. But like I stated, there’s no right or wrong answer to this question.
@Vincent: Angel and I printed this article out before we posted it. We’ve been discussing each question over the last few days. Great conversation starter and food for thought.
@Tim: Sorry dude.
I didn’t mean to kill you off so soon.
@Jeff: That’s awesome! We’d be honored to have you share this article during your sermon.
@zencontrol: All of these questions are equally important to me. Although, I would also assume that some have a greater or lesser relevance to other people.
@Lori: Interesting. I’ll have to read more about Heinz’ dilemma.
@Jonathan:
Thanks for pushing the message along. Your work inspires us.
July 13th, 2009 at 10:09 pm
Number 18 struck a nerve of mine. I am always holding on to stuff that I need to let go. The first thing that comes to mind is my tension in my upper back. I know that I want my career to be something it’s not right now. Of course I’m working on changing this, that’s why I created my blog.
I want to be able to release all my tension and just enjoy my existence. I am enjoying the process of figuring all this out. It’s just takes time to figure it all out. Eventually I’ll get my thoughts, emotions and body aligned.
July 14th, 2009 at 3:09 am
Yes if I just won (or otherwise acquired) $1M, I would indeed quit my “main” job, and instead focus on my family, friends, and side projects. I daydream about this often… but I also work towards it. : )
July 14th, 2009 at 6:53 am
Marc and Angel, I can’t say enough about how much I love your blog. In any case this was a fantastic and insightful list.
“When it’s all said and done, will you have said more than you’ve done?”
Love it!
If people pondered this list and really absorbed these questions, they would make life-changing decisions. I’m going to do something with this list, I just don’t know what yet. I’m going to promote the hell out of it at least.
Thanks for a truly wonderful and useful article.
July 14th, 2009 at 10:58 am
“#43. What is the difference between being alive and truly living?” …I think this is such a huge question everyone should ask themselves. So many just move through life uninspired or feel like they can’t change…when we can. Change can start small. I think many look too far ahead and it looks like too much work, so they do nothing.
What a great list! Thank you for sharing, it really got me thinking on a lot of different levels.
Thanks
Dayne
July 14th, 2009 at 12:13 pm
A very interesting set of questions. For my next blog post maybe I’ll go through and answer all of them :). It would be interesting to see what I come up with.
July 14th, 2009 at 4:45 pm
Hi Marc and Angel, this is a fantastic post. I love these questions and am printing them out to revisit and share with a friend who does not go online. Very important and powerful as it awakens the entire soul. Beautiful and right to the heart of what is dear to us all. Thank you SO much. Robin
July 14th, 2009 at 11:32 pm
I want to write each question in a brainstorm web on my wall so I can add to each one as I think it through or revisit it
July 15th, 2009 at 11:19 am
I am really impressed with these questions and I do really need to think about the answers. I believe doing so will help me view the way I live.
Thank you.
July 15th, 2009 at 6:54 pm
Wow this list is awesome! I love asking questions and really reflecting on the answers. I don’t think any questions is too hard or too easy to ask.
Ultimately, in my opinion, questioning leads to our greatest growth and development!
July 16th, 2009 at 3:31 am
Brilliant collection. … have bookmarked it
July 16th, 2009 at 9:23 am
Wow, loved this list, especially:
“Have you been the kind of friend you want as a friend?”
My first thought was “yes!” But the right answer is “almost.” I’m always willing to go the extra mile to help a friend, but I tend to depend on others to get the social ball rolling, and that’s not really fair. I’ve always been closer to the introverted side than most of my friends, but that’s no excuse for always counting on the other people to organize everything. Now that you made me think about it, this is something that needs attention.
July 16th, 2009 at 12:35 pm
Good stuff.
It’s not how many times you push the elevator button … it’s how hard you push it.
Flipping work from pain to pleasure is one of the best keys to happiness. It’s not doing nothing, but doing something engaging that rocks our world.
July 16th, 2009 at 1:08 pm
thank you for these, they really made me think.
July 18th, 2009 at 1:27 am
The question that stood out the most to me was “What’s holding you back?”
Laziness used to hold me back. I can now safely say that I’m over that habit. Just do it now. Don’t wait for any doubt to creep in.
July 18th, 2009 at 8:57 am
An exceptional set of questions to ponder upon deeply… I found new insights and understanding when I introspected on these questions. They do add a greater clarity in our life and which way we are heading. Keep up the great work!
July 19th, 2009 at 3:29 pm
This is one of the best set of introspective questions I’ve ever seen. Most people don’t even think to ask these type of questions. Amazing post.
July 20th, 2009 at 7:45 am
Wow, I love your webpage etc….. I work with young adults on living a balanced life, while living their passion and dreams. I also empower them to be responsible with their decisions and money. Redefining the word Millionaire - to be more than just about money. But about freedom.
July 21st, 2009 at 6:03 am
I would gladly lose all my older memories to make new ones. It is thinking about the future that takes us froward, not looking back over our shoulder. Your questions really made me ponder about my life and the decisions i have made along the way.
July 23rd, 2009 at 10:14 am
Congratulations on a very thought provoking post. I loved it!
Each time I read it a different question catches my imagination and really heightens my emotions and thought processes. They get to the heart of what’s truly important.
Those matters that can feel easier to ignore.
The classical Greek philosopher, Socrates, is noted for his problem solving technique of asking questions. So your in good company.
Here’s some questions I’d ask myself:
What’s the difference between trying and failing and not trying at all?
What am I grateful for?
What am I feeling now? Why?
July 31st, 2009 at 1:27 am
Good stuff. I did a post similar to this one that talks about “your perfect day” exercise, which I actually heard Frank Kern talk about.
http://www.followmypurpose.com/123/getting-what-you-want-your-perfect-day/
August 2nd, 2009 at 6:49 pm
Being able to ask profound questions can change lives. Most people don’t ask questions at all. They have become a school of listeners, who are programmed by the latest t.v show. They seldom find ways to enhance there life thought thinking.
Imagine, having the highest ability in this universe….and not using it…..huh…its a shame i say
But on the bright side more and more people are starting to jump out of the matrix and free their mind!
Like the late great Bob Marley said
“Emancipate yourself from mental slavery, none but ourselves can free our mind”
August 3rd, 2009 at 12:59 pm
this is a good read.
i really loved all the questions.
August 3rd, 2009 at 10:20 pm
[…] of life provoking questions by Marc and Angel Hack Life. You can check out the original post here: 50 Questions that will Free Your Mind. I’ve answered all the questions […]
August 5th, 2009 at 11:35 pm
There are some nice thought provoking questions there. I like “What are you most grateful for?”. I ask that myself every day.
August 12th, 2009 at 4:19 pm
added number 51:
what would you do if you knew you could not fail
not sure where i saw that but it fits…
August 12th, 2009 at 4:42 pm
Thank you for your post. It was most interesting and thoughtful.
August 16th, 2009 at 11:07 pm
I hadn’t stumbled in a long time and it’s things like these i needed the most from that little green button. your articles just helped me get back to myself for the first time in months. Im me again. i’ve been to hell and back since the start of 09. Im just glad to be back. thank you so much for your inspiration.
August 17th, 2009 at 5:03 am
Number 13… Of course, I would break the law to save someone I didn’t even like (excluding rape, murder etc)
August 17th, 2009 at 1:09 pm
I just got done reading this and it really got me thinking. I just want to say thank you for this.
August 20th, 2009 at 6:12 pm
# 50 is a biggy when you think about it…How many times are our words or actions based on what we think others will say, think, do or act upon…If we make decisions based on these facts then we are not making decisions at all…I believe we should always make the right decision no matter who may or may not like it…At days end we will only answer for our own actions.
August 20th, 2009 at 8:47 pm
Thank you for this list.
August 26th, 2009 at 5:03 am
Nice list, they are good questions!
August 29th, 2009 at 6:29 pm
Usually these lists are stupid and unoriginal, but for the most part, I liked this one.
September 8th, 2009 at 9:25 pm
If I could add #51: How would you change your life if you knew retirement was not an option?
Too many people sacrifice current happiness for a ethereal someday that may never occur. Quit working so hard, concentrate on the things that matter.
(question via Tim Ferriss)
September 11th, 2009 at 9:17 pm
I really love this post. Thank you!
September 15th, 2009 at 9:32 pm
Wow, just wow. Thanks for these deep and probing questions! Most things rarely make me think this hard about myself.
September 17th, 2009 at 6:05 pm
RICHLY PROVOCATIVE.
September 18th, 2009 at 4:42 am
Amazing set of questions — I want to publish the same in my ‘infant blog’ (with the appropriate credits to you, of course)
May I do so — will act post approval.
September 21st, 2009 at 3:47 am
It took me two days, but I answered every single question with a personal response and posted it on my blog. It can be read here- http://confessionsofsomeonealmost18.blogspot.com/2009/09/50-questions-that-will-free-your-mind.html
September 22nd, 2009 at 4:21 pm
Your blog continues to push the boundaries of my world.
Thank you? Is that even appropriate for life changing thought processes?
September 26th, 2009 at 7:31 pm
This reminds me of the lessons in some of Alan Watts’ books. Good read.
September 30th, 2009 at 4:07 pm
If you free your mind than you have real freedom.
October 6th, 2009 at 7:16 am
Thank you so much! I am an English teacher and often start class with a journal entry. Any one of these spark great writing and wonderful discussion. This is fantastic!
October 11th, 2009 at 6:04 pm
Amongst one of the most beautiful set of questions and ideas I have chanced upon.
Made me smile (a lot).. and think (even more).
And I found answers to questions I never even knew I was asking for 22 years now.
Was a lovely read. Thank you for sharing it with us. Looking forward to more such.
Take care.
Love.
(Mind if I paste this on my page along with complete credit to u and a link to your blog?)
October 14th, 2009 at 12:15 pm
Recently I’ve been missing more and more school and work because I’ve been so sad. Today was one of those days. But today after reading this, it’s time to turn things around. Thank you so much.
October 22nd, 2009 at 12:55 am
I love the list and bookmarked it for later.
That said, I haven’t decided if it’s inspirational or depressing.
November 2nd, 2009 at 9:57 am
Good morning!
I was looking for a way to send you guys a message hihi i didnt know we can leave comments here hahah now i know i just want to thank you for inspiring me to continue living. 18 years of having no friends, i alienate people for the promise of trivial success.. only to realize that i failed on both accounts. i was wondering if i could start over again. my life feels so empty i just want it to go away. then i stumbled on one of your articles and i was amazed with the thoughts on this site. truly inspiring. Thank you Marc and Angel and more power!
November 8th, 2009 at 10:22 am
If you keep chasing the dollar, and only the dollar, you will always be broke. But if you chase your dreams, you’re doing something that makes you happy in the end.
Great read.
November 15th, 2009 at 10:34 pm
There’s some sort of motivation behind each of these questions… and I mentally answer them, acknowledging those notions. I think from now on, I’ll practice one of those answers per week and see where I go.
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