Throughout your life, there will be times when the world gets real quiet and the only thing left is the beat of your own heart. So you’d better learn the sound of it, otherwise you’ll never understand what it’s telling you.
The wisest and happiest among us are those who are respectful of their time, and who use it productively to grow as they age. Sadly though, far too many of us age much faster than we grow. We spend so much of our lives going through the external motions of what society tells us “maturity” is – getting married, buying a house, working our way up the corporate ladder, etc. – that we fail to concentrate on our own inner growth and goals. We never allocate enough time just for us.
Part of the problem is that we’re always waiting for some condition to resolve itself at some point in the future. We believe that the right time to take the next step with our own personal development is somehow going to magically happen tomorrow, next week, next month, next year, and so on. But one day we wake up and realize we’re no closer than we were long ago. We find ourselves asking, “How did it get so late, and why haven’t I moved?” In other words, we’ve aged, but we never grew to our true potential. We never fulfilled ourselves.
Let this be your wake-up call. Right now is LIFE. Indulge in it! Make it count. Because it’s happening…
And that’s precisely why we recorded today’s video for you – to help you make the most of it.
Video Blog Post:
4 Ways to LIVE Today (video transcript):
Reminder: Have you checked out our book? We just released a limited time bundle for “1,000 Little Things Happy, Successful People Do Differently” which includes our eBook, audio book and bonus material on sale for a big discount. Click here to check it out!
1. Invest the present in what matters most to you.
You are the customer of a bank called Time. Every morning it credits you with eighty-six thousand, four hundred seconds. Every night it writes off, as a loss, whatever remainder you have failed to invest to good purpose. It carries over no balance. It allows no overdraft.
Each day it opens a new account for you with the same deposit of eighty-six thousand, four hundred seconds. Each night it burns the remains of the day.
If you fail to use the day’s deposits, the loss is yours. There is no going back. There is no drawing against the tomorrow. You must live in the present on today’s deposits only. Invest it so as to get from it the utmost in health, happiness, and success.
You’re making withdrawals right this second. The only question is: Are you making them count?
2. Focus on writing your own life story, your way.
Remember that every moment counts. Every second matters. Honestly, whatever is given is a gift.
So don’t be so satisfied with the success stories of others and how things have gone for them that you forget to write your own. Unfold your own tale and bring it to life. You have everything you need to become what you are capable of becoming. Incredible change happens when you decide to take control. This means consuming less and creating more. It means refusing to let others do your thinking, talking, and deciding for you. It means learning to respect and use your own ideas and instincts to write your passage.
If you want your life story to soar to new heights, you’ve got to clear a path, reduce the time-sinks and burdens weighing you down, and pick up the things that give you wings. Keep your best wishes and your biggest goals close to your heart and dedicate time to them every day. If you truly care about what you do and you work diligently at it, there’s almost nothing you can’t accomplish. (Read The Last Lecture.)
3. Live what you preach.
Remember that thinking and doing are two very different things. Success never comes to look for you while you wait around thinking about it.
You are what you do, not what you say you’ll do. Knowledge is basically useless without action. Good things don’t come to those who wait; they come to those who work on meaningful goals. Ask yourself what’s really important and then have the courage to build your life around your answer.
Identify what’s most important to you. Prune nonessential commitments. Eliminate as much as you possibly can of everything else. No wasted time, no fluff, no regrets.
And remember, if you wait until you feel 100% ready to begin, you’ll likely be waiting the rest of your life.
So challenge yourself to be who you know you are capable of being. Challenge yourself to follow through – to live what you preach, to walk your talk. Don’t worry about how slowly you feel you’re heading towards your goals, or how many roadblocks you find, or how many detours you’re forced to take. As long as you keep doing your thing, you’re still cruising far ahead of everyone who’s too scared to even try.
4. Step boldly into the unknown.
And don’t buy into the myth of the perfect moment either. Moments aren’t perfect; they’re what you make them. So many people wait around for the stars to align to do what they’re here to do. The perfect moment, the perfect opportunity, the perfect state of being, etc. Wake up! These states of perfection are myths. They do not exist.
Your ability to grow to your highest potential is directly related to your willingness to act in the face of imperfection. You will come to succeed not by finding a perfect moment, but by learning to see and use life’s imperfections perfectly.
So ask yourself this: “When it’s all said and done, will I have said more than I’ve done?” Let your answer be NO!
May your actions speak louder than your words. May your life preach louder than your lips. May your success be your noise in the end.
And if life only teaches you one thing, let it be that taking a passionate leap is always worth it. Even if you have no idea where you’re going to land yet, be brave enough to step up to the edge of the unknown, and listen to your heart every now and then. You’re worth it. (Marc and I discuss this in more detail in the “Passion and Growth” chapter of 1,000 Little Things Happy, Successful People Do Differently.)
The floor is yours…
As you know, Marc and I are committed to making the most of life along with you. In fact, we try to make every day count by doing two simple things:
- We take at least one step that moves closer to one of our goals.
- We spend an hour doing something that makes us laugh.
Today, we challenge you to do the same. So please leave a comment below and let us know what you’re going to do to make your TODAY count.
PS: Oh, and please let us know what you think of the video too. We intend to record one new video blog every month going forward.
Kevin B. says
Thank you for sharing such important words of wisdom. All too often we get caught up with “Life” and it takes real effort to stay on track. In fact, I tend to overlook what’s most important for what seems most urgent almost every day. But your thoughts here have indeed been an incredible wake-up call. Time to take action on what matters most.
Excellent video by the way… I look forward to more. And I look forward to reading more of your book, which I’ve been enjoying in small doses this past week.
Varsha says
Hello, I am so glad to have found your blog… I am learning a lot from you.
Drawing and painting is my passion. After my marriage, I did not draw or paint again for 10 years, until today. But this afternoon I did my first ever acrylic painting. Oh my goodness I was so proud of myself, and I was so so happy and it turned out so beautiful! Putting everything else on hold sometimes to work on a personal goal or passion is so important. Glad I did that today. My husband and son appreciated my art too. I am really happy that I moved a step ahead towards my goal of reviving my passion. Thanks a lot for all your advice and inspiration.
Nancy says
Today, to make my time count, I chose NOT to do something I was invited to do. Instead I stayed home alone in peace and read, and watched your video and enjoyed time to breathe. Thank you for all you do. You are encouraging me through a divorce right now. Your words are often how I start my day. Thank you!
Rachel says
Thank you for your video. Just what I needed, as always with your posts. My goal at the moment is to find work I enjoy… my previous job has recently come to an end and was not enjoyable for awhile before that. I’m pleased to say I have made a step today towards my goal in sorting a reference and have put in several applications. Will have to think about an activity to do today to make myself laugh 🙂
Christy King says
For many years, I’ve thought I would eventually have an epiphany as to how I can help “save the world.” Well in the last year, I realized that hadn’t happened on its own so I’d better start putting some more effort into it. I don’t have an answer yet, but I’ve made a heck of a lot more progress.
Melissa Webster says
LOVE the video blog! I especially love the blooper at the end. That was a cool touch. 😀
I decided two weeks ago to turn the script I’ve been struggling with for months into a nonfiction book instead. I desperately need a break from the music and film industries, and my sister suggested a book that can be adapted to a screenplay afterwards, if I still want to go that route. It just clicked and felt right, and I feel better and more confident about it.
Just before I read your blog post, I finished the last part of the proposal. Freaky timing again.
Tomorrow and through the weekend I’ll write the sample chapter. It should all be cleaned up and ready to submit by the end of next week. I’m doing daily positive affirmations that this time the submission process won’t be the nightmare I’ve experienced in the past, and that things will start moving forward again in a positive direction, or at the very least, I’ll handle it better.
Robert says
I used to visit your site almost every day. I actually read your solid motivational stories aloud to improve my English. I even recorded them and then listen to my voice – I went so far that I have recorded many your articles with a text-to-speech software to get the right accent – weird, I know 🙂 but it really works, and helped me learn the language, while inspiring me.
I watched your video today, really good. It touched me to send this post – I am somehow a shy soul 🙂
naturegirl says
Is this your first video blog here? You guys did a great job!
Devi says
Hi Marc and Angel,
Lovely video. Today I am writing my book, which I have been putting off!
I love your distinction between thinking and taking action, which is often something I talk to my clients about, and always need to remember myself. I use the metaphor of standing on the side of the pool thinking about learning to swim versus getting in and trying it out. You don’t need to know how, you need to do it. Having a teacher can help, but not if you don’t take action. And the amazing thing is, you really don’t need to know how. You don’t need to know exactly what ‘your thing’ is for the rest of your life. That just gives you pressure to get it right. All you need it commitment to move in a direction that is calling you, and keep moving, adjusting and moving again.
Thanks for the video. I look forward to seeing more.
Anita says
Thanks Marc & Angel, it was lovely to see you both and hear your words in person. I love all your inspirations and that was just what I needed to hear right now as I go through a divorce, have a young child and I am fighting to keep and grow a business I developed. So thank you from the bottom of my heart.
Pat Sweeney says
Another excellent post. Consider me a new fan. You remind me of an image that hampered me for a long time. I always felt my life was in rehearsal for the big performance that was coming later. It was never clear when the big event would start for real, just not yet, so keep rehearsing. And not even the dress rehearsal, just practice and hold off. All of a sudden, I’m 72 and in the third act! What did I miss by not recognizing the play had really started long, long ago.
Diana says
I loved the video and great advice. Currently, my passion is self-expression through creative art and my goal lately is to work on some project every day that fulfills this need of mine. Thanks for all you do for us out here.
Kim says
Hi Marc & Angel
I enjoy your articles and so lovely to see you both in the video sharing and doing what you love! Thank you for inspiring us 🙂 Your website is one I go to when I feel down or drained to re-charge myself! Yes, it takes courage to move forward and seize the day. These past years I have been preparing myself to move out of my comfort zone and really live the life I love – traveling, writing and helping others. Moving slowly but surely towards my goal. Thank you once again and keep inspiring and uplifting us with your writings and videos. Cheers!
kathyh says
I have had a few epiphanies since the passing of my mother 3 years ago and have made life changes which have allowed me to free myself from of a lot of negativity that I thought was my own! I agree, don’t talk the talk if you can’t walk the walk! Great Video! Thanks again from MA! 🙂
Noah says
That ending really says it all. Glory to God.
You guys are great.
Mandy says
Thank you for your wonderful insightful words of wisdom. Your advice should be read out in school assembly… you could inspire a whole generation!
Shashi @ RunninSrilankan says
Amazing post! I am working on learning the beat of my heart! Love #1 – time it is our greatest gift!
Rosebud says
Thank you for your inspiring words, all of which I have been trying to put into practice for the last four years, after I realized that my marriage wasn’t happy. My main problem is that my husband refuses to engage with the problems which have come to light in counseling, and says that the problems are all of my making–I should appreciate what I have and stop asking for more. So, how does my situation square with what you are advocating in this post?
Jose Alva says
Hey family, those are some real inspiring words! It’s all about that simplification and motivation. So proud of you guys.
-JOSE
V says
I have to say this post comes right on time for me. I’m having a conflict between quitting a well paid boring job I’m not interested in or going into the unknown of finding a career path I really care about.
You’re absolutely right. All we have is time so I should make my time worth it and as of right now I’m wasting too much of it.
Thanks for the lesson!
vw says
Just want to say thank you and I’m grateful for your blogs.
Marie says
Hi Christy,
I can relate to that as well. I am 56 years old and was getting inpatient with God and telling him I might not have much time left, can you PLEASE show me the way. It wasn’t until I realized that he was refining me and pruning me and that things happen in his time, not mine, that things started to come together. It seems that everything I approached b/c I thought it was the right thing to do, did not work out for one reason or another. I started reading Nouwen and there is one sentence from his book, “Discernment” that I have to keep repeating in my head, (this is a paraphrase) You will be called and sent. That made a big impact on me.
I have always been very impulsive and controlled by the flesh and feelings. I read that not every opportunity that presents itself means God wants you to take it. This has helped.
Keep praying Christy and listening for the soft voice in your ear or nudge of your heart. If you want to do God’s will, he WILL use you. God Bless you Christy!
Andrew Aughenbaugh says
Ok guys ! Yesterday I got another rejection letter for a book. I was feeling pretty down on the situation and then I read this posting. I guess I need to find a few more publishers to send the book to for review.
Thanks,
Andy
SIM says
In the words of b.dylan. TRUST YOURSELF. don’t trust me to give you the truth. TRUST YOURSELF!
Laurie says
Excellent and truthful video! Today I will be selling a house!
Thank you for all of your daily positive and healthy emails!
Laurie
Maria McAdams says
I love the video, most of all I loved the feeling of having you two talking to me! I am a big fan, sharing, sharing, sharing…
Apoorva says
Thank so much for the reminder this morning. My life has felt hopeless the past couple weeks and I woke up this morning just wanting to give up, but reading your article here made me realize to take everything just one day at a time for now.
Orlando says
Thank you for posting this video. Such useful tips, with words of wisdom that are so important. I have never seen anything so honest on the web before. Although today, being older, I never see myself as an useless old person, because your age does not count when you are young at heart. It is not too late to follow your expert advice. God bless you and have a nice day!
Janice says
YES continue with a monthly video! Believe first post of yours I saw was ’18 things I wish I’d known when I was 18′ WOW! My son had just turned 18 but I was inspired at age 53…thank you for speaking to our hearts, minds and souls.
Ben Montoya Jr says
I have been following your blog faithfully for almost 2 years and this is my first reply. Thank you two for hacking life and sharing your unique, thought provoking, and heart felt perspectives. As I reflect, your contributions have been one of the key ingredients in helping me get my mind, body, and soul balanced and focused during some the most challenging and trying moments I have had to endure, whether it be issues with family, friends, relationships, career, health (physical, emotional, spiritual), and the never ending journey of self discovery. THANK YOU! I share your contributions with others on a daily basis in the hopes that their spirits may be touched in a profound way as mine has been.
In regards to today’s post, it once again addresses something currently at the forefront of my thoughts. I actually have been telling myself that I NEED to live and not merely exist right now. Your words reinforced that I am in the right mindset and my actions are strategic and a good use of my time. I am going to definitely make it a point to do something for an hour a day that makes me laugh. I did so last evening with my dad who is visiting me. We went for a ride and our chit chat about how we deal with difficult people turned into a tag team comedy duo. We were laughing so hard that I had to pull over from driving. We stayed in a supermarket parking lot for about an hour laughing to the point of exhaustion. I was reminded how much I am like my father in how I step up to the edge and take those passionate leaps in life. This was one of the best father and son moments and it gave me the courage to listen to my heart and yet again springboard off that edge and know that wherever I land I will be just fine and step closer to achieving my full potential and purpose. After all, the man sitting next to me hysterically laughing, demonstrated time and time again how he always marched to his own drumbeat, seized moments in time and made them his own. He has a lifetime of memories and experiences that are better than any Hollywood movie script. I still want grow up to be just like my dad!
Kate Olson says
Amazing and inspiring! Action and a positive attitude can really take us to the next level, and everyday I look for your blog for inspiration and wisdom! I have learned that fear is not real, but an emotion. By following through with a plan of action and doing something about it, rather than just talking about it really helps. Oh, and I like the bank account analogy!
You both have motivated me to pursue my dream venture and get started! I would love to have you both has our guest speakers! Thank you again! -Kate
Christine Makris says
Words were never truer … I’ve always been a big proponent of the ‘actions speak louder than words’ in terms of other people but I never quite thought about it in terms of moving myself to the next level. Thank you for providing the insight and inspiration!
Aiyana says
I was more patient than before. I will take your advice of one step at a time and commit to writing – my goal. I’ve published 3 articles so far.
Kayla says
Great timing. I needed this today. Going through some hard times and I’ve just been paralyzed by fear. This gave me the boost I needed to get up and try…
Dave Nordella says
I am surrounded by stacks of paper as I prepare for the bite of the taxman. I would have been forlorn earlier in my life with the drudgery. My perspective has changed causing my circumstances to change.
I own my own business now. I was an employee then.
What else will I do to improve my life TODAY?
– Work with a web designer to improve my landing page
– Work on some Headline Hacks
– Read “1,000+ Little Things Happy Successful People Do Differently”
– Love my wife
Okay, the last one I do every day. I am very grateful for my wife. She tells me that she is grateful for me too. Maybe that is why we feel
so fresh after over a decade together.
Thank you, Marc and Angel, for an inspiring vlog post. #gratitude #blessed
Russ Johns says
I have to say, this message is exactly what I needed to hear this morning. I woke up with multiple messages from people with problems and I had no patience or tolerance left. I wanted to stop and ignore the demands of my time and push it off for later (or never).
Instead, I engaged, knocked out a few issues and solved a few problems that needed my attention. I was still in a mood that is unusual for my personality. I had keep moving or take a break and change my mental state. I clicked on this post. This is the first time I have seen the video, great job! Reading Marc & Angel has always boosted my attitude and allows me to go a bit further with my attitude adjustments. Thanks for the effort!
Being the first video I have seen from Marc & Angel, I really like what you’re doing and the direction of the message. Keep up the great work. I always share your links and use your lists and information when I speak in public.
Everyone…
If you have not taken the time to reflect on the message here, I highly recommend you spend a few moments and check it out.
Enjoy the day,
Russ
CG says
First – Thank you Marc and Angel for the post, very thought provoking as I take the huge leap of signing the contract to build my own home, something I’ve wanted to do since I was a child.
The real reason I was moved to respond was to Rosebud – FIND A NEW THERAPIST!! My boyfriend and I have been in counseling several times over the last 5 years with miserable results, but recently we tried again after a “deal-breaking” issue came to light. We’ve had THREE (yes, that’s 3) sessions with the new therapist, and he’s already gotten us to find a solution on one underlying issue, given us both items to act on to make things better and called us both to account for our individual roles in our issues and encouraged us to use these items to grow along paths we’ve agreed are good for us individually and as a couple. What a difference!
I’m assuming that the therapist already knows your husband is in denial and is allowing it. That is NOT what a good therapist does. If not, then the therapist needs to know and work on it with your husband. If your therapist is allowing your husband to shift all the blame to you (one of ours tried that too), you’re not going to come to a resolution, you’re just going to feel bad about yourself. Ultimately, if your husband continues in denial, regardless of work with a GOOD therapist, then he doesn’t want to change and the therapist needs to tell you that you’re not going to be able to alter the situation – after all, people only change if they want to and are willing to put in the effort. Then you’ll need to decide if it’s time to end the marriage. I wish all the best for you.
CG
Sharon says
Hello Marc and Angel,
I just stumbled upon you the other day but I wanted to give gratitude for the truth that you speak in the video. I love the time/bank account analogy. I did act and then I had an accident, but it also taught me something. To make my day count I am going to take a tai chi class and forget the hard core yoga for now. I won’t cry over what I can’t do but just be grateful for what I can do. Thank you to both of you.
Nomafu says
Hi, guys. I’ve recently started reading your blog and want to do better in my life. I think listening to my heart is the first step. Seven years ago I got into an accident… and later that same year in August lost my son, then in November lost my job. Ever since I can’t stay long in anything, for example work and even relationships are often fleeting for me. I truly need something to inspire and ground me in every way. So far I’m starting to enjoy your blog post. Please keep motivating us. Thanks a lot.
Tram says
I consistently find myself in a struggle with finding time and money to go travel. I work long hours yet I am always short on funds. In turn, my dreams & goals always end up on the back burner.
Reading your blog gives me inspiration to turn a new leaf. With your video today I am inspired to really evaluate what I need to do to get one step closer to my goal of traveling and having the funds & time to do it.
Thank you for the inspiration!!
Megan says
Loved today’s post and really enjoyed the video. I am amazed how often your life lessons are spot on with whats happening in my life and where my heads at. Please just keep doing it. I love your call to action.
Bonnie says
HI, I read all the emails I get from your website. They are all really great and have great advice. I often send them off to my daughters.
Problem is I am stuck and can`t seem to figure out how to find a life for myself. I am 61 and dearly would love to feel like I have a life of my own, always be able to find things to do. I feel like life is passing me by. I have a full time job as a business clerk in Child and Youth Mental Health. I find if fulfilling and like my job although it gets emotionally trying sometimes. My interaction with the kids and their parents I try to be a bright light in their day with always a smile and friendly comments.
I go to my 89 year old Mothers place every evening after work for approx. 2 hours and spend Sat. afternoon with her, taking her shopping, cleaning, doing dishes, vacuuming for her. Sat. mornings I spend with my grandchildren playing with them. The only day I have left is Sunday. I usually spend it cooking, reading, watching a movie,or going out for a walk. I feel like life is passing my by. I would love to have a partner and friends and places to go and have some fun. I am not very good at going places alone.
I did not grow up here and don`t have many friends, the ones I do have are married and busy with their lives. I have gone on dating sites but never found anyone worth while spending any more than a couple of dates with.
I agree with all the things your articles are saying. I practice positive affirmations and have reieke once a month. I spent many years depressed and on medication until I started using positive affirmations. But still struggle with feeling like my life is leading no where. When my mom passes what will I do with myself? My mom is very anti-social and only sees me and doesn’t go out anywhere except when I take her….by her choice. I don`t want to end up that way. It sounds silly but I feel like I need a step by step instructions on what to do next. There is lots of advice out there, I have read lots of Louise Hay and Wayne Dyer. I know that we create our own destiny, create our own life by our thoughts. I guess I am not very good at it! Still feel stuck and not moving forward.
Moved around when I was a child many many times, Dad was in the Army. No real chance to make friends over the years. I Have 6 other siblings, there was always someone around. My brothers and sisters all live in different places far away. My father was very abusive and I went to many years of counseling, in a good place with all that now. Had two wonderful Daughters. Both had illnesses that they struggled with while growing up and was very involved with their care until they moved out, they have partners now. I have gone through 2 divorces. Feeling like it is time for me but no idea where to start or how or what steps to take to create a life for me. Any direction, anyone?
Thank you for your time and what you do. Bonnie.
Wanda says
I just want to say THANK YOU FOR YOUR BEAUTIFUL WORDS! They help me a lot!! Every day you save somebody’s life and make a better world! Thank you!
Today I won’t waste my precious time, I will work for my dreams and give my best in every step of my life.
Kité @ kiteinthecity says
Your website has been a source of inspiration for a number of years. You never fail to lift my spirits up when things seem hopeless.
Thank you for being so passionate in what you do. I’m sure many people like me are being helped.
All the best!
A.D. says
I just started reading your blog about a week ago and have been hooked on it since… love it. Thank you both.
Lisa says
May your life preach louder than your lips – profound. Also, thank you for the balance of shown in the two steps you take everyday, working on one’s goals but also remembering to laugh. Life can be far too serious…laughter brings a lighter quality that often we miss when we are trying so hard to make life meaningful.
Daze says
You guys are awesome and love you even more after this video and seeing you in person!
nj says
Truly speaking, I have never been this inspired in my life, not only by your words that carry comfort but also by your photos and pictures that come with each and every post. You are truly a BLESSING to me even if we don’t know each other personally. You have really changed my life. God Bless.
Emily Filloramo says
It is amazing what happens when you connect the dots of your life looking backwards and make “lemonade” out of the “lemons” of painful experiences.
I’ve found my calling when I turned 50.
Now everyday is a new adventure because it is filled with all the stuff I have to do to help others to get out of their own way – through permanently discarding old emotional baggage – so they can have the confidence and courage to move forward and live life to the fullest.
It’s because I’ve overturned my negative core beliefs into positive beliefs that I’ve been able to move forward and LIVE fully everyday. I would encourage others to do the work to permanently rid of the old pains.
Abdul Rauf says
We need to create our story our own way. This is what I have learned from this post.
I have been thinking about what it really takes to make life better and that what it takes to take charge of my life, and I think, you have pretty much summed it up for me here. Thanks.