There is a big difference between empty fatigue and gratifying exhaustion. Life is too short not to focus more on what matters most.
Before you know it you’ll be asking, “How did it get so late so soon?” So take time to figure yourself out. Take time to realize what you want and need. Take time to take calculated risks. Take time to love, laugh, cry, learn, and forgive. Life is so much shorter than it often seems.
In our line of work we speak with people on a weekly basis who have been forced to ‘wake up’ to life’s fleeting nature. Consider these two excerpts from people’s stories that we recently received in our email inbox (both are being shared with permission):
- “Earlier today, in what’s likely to be one of our final conversations, she told me her only regret was that she didn’t appreciate every year with the same passion and purpose that she has had in the last two years after she was diagnosed with terminal cancer. ‘I’ve accomplished so much recently,’ she said. ‘If I had only known, I would have started sooner.’”
- “This afternoon I was looking through an old Windows laptop that my dad used ten years ago before he died in a car accident. The laptop has been sitting around collecting dust at my mom’s house ever since. In a folder named ‘Video Project’ oddly placed at the root of the C: drive, I found a video file my dad made about a month before he died that my mom and I had never seen before. In the 15-minute video my dad talks about my mom and me, how grateful he is to be a part of our lives, and that he has no regrets at all about anything in his life — that he is totally at peace. He ended by saying, ‘I know you two might miss me someday since I’m the oldest, but please smile for me, because I’ve lived well…’”
These people’s stories are both inspiring and heartbreaking at the same time. And yet, they are incredibly common stories. Wake-up calls to life being short eventually ring true in every one of our lives, sometimes much sooner than we had expected. Which is precisely why Marc and I try to remind people to stop waiting. Now is the time to start learning, growing, and moving forward — so at the very least, you can rest free of regrets someday like the dad in the second story.
Remember, too many people wait all day for 5pm, all week for Friday, all year for the holidays, all their lives for happiness… And that YOU don’t have to be one of them! Don’t wait until your life is almost over to realize how good it has been, or how much potential you had literally every step of the way. It’s time to wake up!
Here are ten quick wake-up calls you need to receive today, before it’s too late:
1. This moment is your real life.
Your real life is not between the moments of your birth and death. Your real life is between now and your next breath. The present — the here and now — is all the life you ever truly get. So practice living each moment in full, in kindness and peace, without fear and regret. And do the best you can with what you have in this moment; because that is all you can ever expect of anyone, including yourself. (Read The Power of Now.)
2. A lifetime isn’t very long.
Eighty years isn’t guaranteed. Many people get far less. Again, today is your life and you’ve got to fight for it! Fight for what’s right. Fight for what you believe in. Fight for what’s important to you. Fight for the people you love, and never forget to tell them how much they mean to you. Realize that right now you’re lucky because you still have a chance. So stop for a moment and think. Whatever you still need to do, start doing it today — take the next step. There are only so many tomorrows.
3. The sacrifices you make today will pay dividends in the future.
When it comes to working hard to achieve a dream — earning a degree, building a business, or any other personal achievement that takes time and commitment — one thing you have to ask yourself is: “Am I willing to live a few years of my life like many people won’t, so I can spend the rest of my life like many people can’t?” Let that sink in. May your dreams be bigger than your fears. May your actions speak louder than words. May your life preach louder than your lips… and may success be your noise in the end.
4. When you procrastinate, you become a victim to yesterday.
But when you are proactive and productive, it’s as if yesterday is a kind friend that helps take a load off your back. So do something right now that your future self will thank you for. Trust me, tomorrow you’ll be happy you started today. (Note: Marc and I discuss this in more detail in the Success chapter of 1,000 Little Things Happy, Successful People Do Differently.)
5. Failures are only lessons.
Good things come to those who still hope even though they’ve been disappointed, to those who still believe even though they’ve tasted failure, to those who still love even though they’ve been hurt. So give yourself grace, and grow from the situations that didn’t work out. Remind yourself that you can disappoint people and still be good enough. You can fail and still be smart, capable and talented. You can let people down and still be worthwhile and deserving of love and admiration. We all make mistakes sometimes. Take a deep breath. You are allowed to be human, and learn the way on the way.
6. You are your most valuable relationship.
Sometimes we try to show the world we are flawless in hopes that we will be liked and accepted by everyone, but we can’t please everyone and we shouldn’t try. The beauty of us lies in our vulnerability, our complex emotions, and our authentic imperfections. When we embrace who we are and decide to be authentic, instead of who we think others want us to be, we open ourselves up to real relationships, real happiness, and real success. So nurture the relationship you have with yourself today. You are GOOD enough, SMART enough, FINE enough, and STRONG enough. You don’t need other people to validate you; you are already VALUABLE.
7. A person’s actions speak the truth.
You’re going to come across people in your life who will say all the right words at all the right times; but in the end, it’s always their actions you should judge them by. So pay attention to what people do. Their actions will tell you almost everything you need to know. And remember that today is too important to waste. Count your blessings, value the people who truly matter, and move on from the drama with your head held high. Remind yourself that the strongest sign of your growth is knowing you’re no longer bothered by the trivial things that once used to drain you.
8. Small acts of kindness can make the world a better place.
Just keep reminding yourself that everyone you see around you is a human being who dreams of something, fears something, loves someone, and has lost someone. And… just keep being kind. Kindness is the only investment that never fails in the long run. And wherever there is a human being, there’s an opportunity for kindness. Learn to give, even if it’s just a smile, not because you have too much, but because you understand there are so many others who feel like they have nothing at all.
9. Behind every beautiful life, there has been some kind of worthwhile pain.
You trip and you fall, you make mistakes and you fail, but you stand strong through it all — you live and you learn. You’re human, not perfect. You been wounded, not defeated. Think of what a priceless gift it is to grow through these experiences — to breathe, to think, to struggle, and to overcome challenges in the pursuit of the things you love. Yes, sometimes you will encounter heartache along the way, but that’s a small price to pay for immeasurable moments of love and joy. Which is why you must keep stepping forward even when it hurts, because you know the inner strength that has carried you this far can carry you the rest of the way.
10. Time and experience heals pain, and it can’t be rushed.
Recently, when Marc and I asked his 80-year-old dad about overcoming pain, this is how he explained it to us: Look at the circles below. The black circles represent our relative life experiences. Mine is larger because I am older and have experienced more in my lifetime. The smaller red circles represent a negative event in our lives. Assume we both experienced the same exact event, whatever the nature. Notice that the negative event circles are the same size for each of us; but also notice what percentage of the area they occupy in each of the black circles. Your negative event seems much larger to you because it is a greater percentage of your total life experiences. I am not diminishing the importance of this event; I simply have a different perspective on it. What you need to understand is that an overwhelmingly painful event in your life right now will one day be part of your much larger past and not nearly as significant as it seems.
Now, it’s your turn…
Yes, it’s your turn to make the best of what’s in front of you today!
So I hope you will have another inspired day today, that you will dream boldly and dangerously, that you will make some progress that didn’t exist before you took action, that you will love and be loved in return, and that you will find the strength to accept and grow from the troubles you can’t change. And, most importantly (because I think there should be more kindness and wisdom in this world), that you will, when you must, be wise with your decisions, and that you will always be extra kind to yourself and others.
And please leave Marc and me a comment below and let us know what you think of this post. Your feedback is important to us. 🙂
(Finally, if you haven’t done so already, be sure to sign-up for our free newsletter to receive new articles like this in your inbox each week.)
Photo by: Nattu
Sherry says
You guys are awesome. Time and time again, reading your blogs or a page in one of your 1000 Things books have helped me cope with bad habits and put things into a positive perspective. Thank you for doing what you do. We need mores Marcs and Angels. 🙂
Annie says
I needed this today. It’s my 58th birthday and I’ve often felt I’ve accomplished everything I was supposed to. You gave me the best gift of reminding me of all theses things I already believe. Thank you.
Claudette Crouse says
Thank you for this post. The wisdom you shared were jewels in how to live your best life, continually.
Cindy Ferguson says
This was eye opening. I just turned 70, and it’s an eye opener also. No one is promised tomorrow, and yes everyday we need to be thankful for everything we have and value. Thank you for this inspiration you have given me!
Sincerely,
Cindy
Helen says
I love your posts. They inspire me to be living each day to the fullest. AND I DO.
Myrna Rivera-Stovel says
Living with regrets is very painful. I am reminded here again that I cannot change what happened earlier in my life… but I must and should do all that I can to be a better me today.
I am also reminded that we are all human and we need to give ourselves and others; forgiveness, and second chances
Peter Sipp says
In 1974 I was 25. I used to get up at 5am. On the radio was Pastor T.L. Barrot. He said,”Life is how we take it.”
That is so true !
Now at 73, I am still doing that. It was /is the Best way to see this life. Thank You Pastor Barrot !!!
Lived west of Chicago then. In NC now, all the best-everyone -:)
Bethany Lee says
Each of these points is good but that last one with the illustration is just beautiful. I love how Marc’s father spelled that out for you. At 68 years of age myself, I fully agree. Another way I look at those circles is not one older person compared to a younger person. Instead you can also see how if two people the same age have the same negative experience, the one with the bigger black circle is the one who didn’t allow that negative experience to keep her from living. She healed and moved on and kept on living. The smaller black circle was the person who slowed way down in living–relationship building, taking risks, experiencing life– because she was afraid to do so after her negative experience. In the same way, bc she could not really move on, that negative experience will always be big in proportion to her life experience, and she will not gain perspective on it because she refused to go on living after it.
Marti says
While all of what I just read I already knew deep down inside, I was feeling extremely low today emotionally & psychologically. I found profound peace after reading this article. I will share this with family members that I know are also not feeling their best right now. What was expressed here was just what I needed to reel me back in from letting my emotions get the best of me and look forward to 1 hour from now, 1 day from now, one year from now. Thank you.
Denis LeBlan says
Your last point in this post was a real eye-opener for me. Sometimes I let life’s temporary aches and pains overwhelm me. So thanks for recalibrating my thinking on this.
And also, I wanted to thank you guys for putting out such a great blog. The ‘list-style’ concept is such a great way to keep people hooked and willing to read a good chunk of content. I enjoy almost every post.
Patricia Barbato says
I’m circling 80 and I’ve lived thru mega tragedies…we all fall down for a while…but u must get up and live again…God gets us through nightmares…trust in him everyday and u will find peace…love this blog
Diego says
It’s so great read all of these lessons. I’m a 37 year old knee deep in the process of pursuing an old passion of mine and attempting to turn it into a legitimate business. I absorb your articles into my life whenever I can, and they give me the extra push I need. Thank you very much!!!
MrsBill says
Over the past 6 months since finding your site by accident ~ I start my day reading the Life Lessons.
Some ring louder for me than others ~
In all there is some “Oh Yeah”… factor ~
Today’s hit the Heart Spot for me in many ways!
I have shared your thought provoking site with a few friends & my Sister and we have all benefited from your insightful writings.
Just to let you know that right across the world in Western Australia you change the path of my Day & make Me make More of it – Thank You!
momo says
I love your blog so much; you guys are so positive and inspirational. I teared up a little bit when I read the last point in this article; it really hit home and gave me a new perspective on some things in my life right now. Much love. <3
Gary says
You do such great work. !!!
Thank you.
Gary
Jenny B says
A friend of mine recently posted this on facebook;
“You only live once.
Wrong. You live every day.
You only die once.”
Your blog helps me live better every day.
Thank You!
Clive Reynolds says
Love this article
Have been there and truly agree.
Sometimes patience is a real test of time but it does end with some sweet memories and a smile.
Thanks to you guys for this lovely reminder.
Sharon says
In my opinion, this is one of your best posts. Thank you. I’ve been a subscriber for years. I am 56 years old and living with terminal cancer. Every day is a gift. On another note, I do enjoy reading your blogs but I find your site difficult because of all the pop up ads. I open your emails on my phone, but have to move to my laptop to view your site. Also, is there a way to print your blog without the ads? I tried to print this one, but it was going to be 25 pages because of all the extras.
Nicole Cartwright says
I am in awe of the simple, yet lifechanging wisdom. Why is it that I have waited so long? I dont know the answer to that, but I KNOW IT IS NOW MY TIME. I would love to scream your words at the top of my lungs, first to myself in the mirror, and then to everyone I care about. And then I will whisper it again, from time to time, because I forget…life happens and I forget. Thank you for reminding me. May you contine to inspire and may you continue to be inspired.
linda says
I totally agree with Jenny B and I thank you so much for your wonderful work. A positive attitude and faith in God are so important,. God bless you both and your family!
Linda
Rita says
I am a Christian and your article is full of Biblical truths. In today’s climate of me, my, mine, and anger and hate, this reminds me to start with our own lives. Our life here is but a blink compared to eternity. Kindness, forgiveness, and love can touch others. It costs nothing but the return is priceless.
Mary C Payo says
While reading this article, I felt such overwhelming emotions and actually cried. I cried for all of the time I have wasted in life on things that didn’t deserve a precious moment of my time. But I also felt overwhelming joy in those tears because I realized that it’s not too late to be better and to savor every second of the rest of my life. Thank you for this thought provoking article.
Penelope W. says
It is no coincidence that I stumbled upon this article. The moment that I read this, I knew it was meant for me to read and it was also perfect timing. I’m 58 years old and still young enough to receive encouragement and advice. All of these points will be incorporated into my daily life moving forward. I will also be making a copy of this article and will print it and tape it to my young adult sons’ refrigerator so that this will be a constant reminder for them in this most confusing world that we currently live in. This be will definitely be a reminder for me. Thank you for this post.
Sandy says
I stumbled across your post and it just made me cry.. It’s my mother’s Birthday today. She passed away 5 years ago and I miss her everyday. Reading your post was just what I needed to read today. Your blog is best I have ever read about life in general and how to enjoy the life your left on this earth….Thank You.
Audrey Furedi says
I have purchased your book and it is excellent!!! The advice you offer is amazing and very very helpful!!!! You guys do such good for people and I like reading your wonderful advice very much!!! There is so much wisdom in everything!!!! Truly remarkable!!!!!
Miss Bernie Rose says
Thank you so much for opening my eyes once again and giving me this gift of advice and inspiration. It comes at a time much needed not only by myself but by someone very close to me who I know will be just as grateful to you both for taking the time to share this wealth of inspiring wisdom so many people miss out on.
It is so refreshing to know there are people out there with this type of mindset willing to share it with anyone and everyone. Bless you both!
Angela Leach says
This is so worth the read! I am 59 years old and have been taking care of children most of that time whether my own or my grandchildren. It dawned on me how far I have really come when I read your post. I have had my failures in life but have moved on and learned to be happy without them. I can truly sat that I am happy with where I am now.
Sure it would be nice to have a partner to share a life with but I don’t NEED one to be happy and if it happens then it happens.
Thank you for your post..
Angela
Sherri says
This article was perfect and validated my own adventure that I recently embarked on. I will be sharing this with others as your points ring true at whatever age or season of life you are in.
Constance McKenzie says
It’s great to see the good people in the world give a voice to the voiceless. I’m of the opinion that there are more good people in the world than bad. The bad makes the most noise, so they get more attention. I’ve tried to save the world and was punished severely for it. My faith in The Most High GOD strengthen me to know this too shall past. Glad to meet you guys. GOD Bless you guys always. Stay safe. Ciao for now Constance McKenzie 🙂
Sage Culley says
Dear Marc& angel, this post truly touched me tonight & came just when I needed reinforcement. I took huge step for me on Monday asked a man i work with to go on a date. Normally this wouldn’t be a big deal but i haven’t been on a date let alone asked anyone out in more than 12 years. Hate online dating and the right person until now hadn’t crossed my path. This person thinks like me we’re as he said cut from the same cloth. It didn’t turn out as I hoped or wanted but it also couldn’t have been better. He’s a widower & just not ready but confirmed what we’ve been sharing is real. For now we’ll remain friends. I’m grateful i mustered up the courage, to ask & that I still have his friendship. It may take a little time to let him go but again grateful I took the leap. I am enough. The depiction of grief couldn’t be more perfect explaination. Thank you!
R. G. says
I don’t read this stuff much and post comments even less frequently.
I just want to say, thank you. I think this struck a positive cord for me in a turbulent, confusing, lonely time in my life.
Thank you.
Patrice says
This was beautifully said. I am reposting this on my Instagram @thepatricescottexperience
Nas says
I desperately needed to hear this.
Thanks a ton.
God bless
Susan Skaar says
Just saw this post and am so glad I did! Made me realize the decisions/choices I make FOR MYSELF are perfectly okay. Have spent way too much time looking for others to validate how I feel when I only need ME to validate my own feelings and know they’re okay.
Sandy says
I stumbled across your post and it just made me cry.. It’s my mother’s Birthday today. She passed away 5 years ago and I miss her everyday. Reading your post was just what I needed to read today. Your blog is best I have ever read about life in general and how to enjoy the life your left on this earth….Thank You.
Bonnie says
It should be no surprise to me that I find your article today—the timing is perfect. Yesterday I was in a courtroom for final divorce hearing from my 3rd husband. We were married for 9 years. I love this man deeply and he loves me but we simply are unable to move forward together in marriage. The grieving process has seemed overwhelming at times. I am 66 years old and realize how tenuous life is. I continue to learn and embrace life every single day.
Rene H says
I found this piece very helpful. In this World of today your articles are settling and empowering. It is nice to see things that are not full of anger, resentment, empathy and just downright goodness. The World needs the Peace your words bring. I think of our children and how detrimental the chaos they hear and see. It’s the adults that do not seem to get what the children know – be accepting. These 10 pointers lay it out – Be Kind not only to yourself but all. How hard would that be to do? I find your words comforting. They give me hope and are a true display of a Light Workers journey – to reach out and bring Peace in Calm to a those in need. Thank you for your ability to touch many hurting Souls.
Gwenn says
Thank you, especially for the part about enjoying life now and make the best of what you have to work with. Enjoy each day, better than complaining. I would like yo add God and prayer to the list of important things in life. I have gotten so many answers to prayer. Some in ways i I never expected. God is always there!! And has been a huge help in my life. All totally for FREE. Ty
April says
Thank you for your so lovingly and considerate arrangements of meaningful words for the encouragement and betterment of living lives!
Cheryl Lockett says
I absolutely love your article as it resonates deeply within me! I’ll be 64 yrs old this July and I’m still evolving as an individual. I’ve had a lot of challenges in my life and I’ve had to let go and move on from a lot of events and experiences. I’m owning my happiness every day now and most of what you discussed in this article is what I’ve come to understand! I’m sharing this article with my daughters, their friends, and the middle school kids I work with! Thank you for eloquently and succinctly writing down these important life lessons! Much love and peace! Cheryl
Reed says
Thought provoking article. Thanks. I look forward to the next one.
Ray says
Thanks for such an inspiring article that found me in the middle of grieving the loss of a loved one. Thank you for reminding me that life is an everyday gift to embrace and to share as much as possible.
Jerome King says
Thank you for this wonderful 10 points which are so amazing inspiring. I didn’t know that there was space to give a reply, but I was already making notes while reading. These are instructions which I want surely want to make my own in life. I have already subscribed.
Paddy says
Profoundly inspiring!
Diamelys Hernandez says
Wow, this has been the most wonderful and eye opening blog post I have read in a long time. I truly enjoyed reading every word.
Kim says
1st day reading your blog & I greatly appreciate you both reminding the world of these important life lessons, especially the last one. I’m having a rainbow baby in 2 days after losing our daughter 9 years ago, being diagnosed with a incurable condition, having chemo, to today being so excited for my future with my children. Life always gets better. Hang in there to anyone going through a tough time. Miracles are possible. Love from Arizona
Skylar says
From the bottom of my heart….Thank You..
Kitty Miller says
This is really brilliant and needed! Thank you for this! Much love, light, success and happiness!
With Love,
Mercy