There’s 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 will 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 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 better part 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.
Yes, procrastination holds you back. 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 often good 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 opportunities, 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 say all the right words at all the right times, but in the end it’s their actions you should judge them by. So pay attention to what people do consistently. Their daily actions will tell you almost everything you need to know. And remember that today is too important to waste. Take good care of your personal boundaries and what you allow yourself to absorb from others. Count your blessings, value the people who truly matter — the ones whose actions match their words — and move on from the drama with your head held high.
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 struggle.
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! So I hope you will have an 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.)
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.
Ryan M.Buser says
Great article and good response from you. I have lived 20 lives and at 57 feel as if what the article spoke about makes more sense in many ways.
Amanda Ham says
Wow…I love how You put that. The first explanation was great but I think your explanation added so much value. That needed to be said too. Thank you.
Vicki F says
This is such an inspiring read. I’m currently going through an extremely hard time in life right now, and Marc’s dad’s advice helped me get out of my head a bit. Thank you for sharing.
Sherri 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. 🙂
Sheila says
I turned 63 in July of this year. I kinda looked around and asked myself where the heck those 63 years went? They went and they went by so very quickly. I began thinking about my life and my shining moments and my sorrows. I began to see that if not for lots of my sorrows there wouldn’t have been many shining moments.
Take each day and live it to the fullest you possibly can. Be happy and don’t be so hard on yourself. You have enough critics, spend your time growing, learning and being good to “you”. I realized I am happier now than any other time in my life. Laugh at yourself and laugh with yourself
Last but certainly not least, thank God for the gift of life and for holding your hand and carrying you through the rough times. God Bless us all
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
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!!!
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.
Jinelle says
Thank you for the article. Please continue to encourage people to make best use of the short time they have here and enjoy now.
Frieda says
It’ like you appeared at the right time in my life. I’ve been struggling with someone’s comments to me and ruminating about that for several days, now.
Truly inspiring and reading this makes me understand that I am worthy of the space I take in this world. No, I certainly am not perfect but I am worthy of living my life to its fullest. Thank you for this truly inspiring blog.
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!!!!!
Laurie says
This post is like a shining light. Thank you for writing it. And thank you for your weekly emails too. They help me.
Mary Crutchfield says
I learned at 22 that life is short and hard because I had a brain tumor removed and was given 3 to 5 years to live. Well, that was January 7, 1976 and I’m still here. Go forward and live your life. Go after your dreams!
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.
Jennifer says
Wow. Excellent post!! I just turned 50 and loved & can relate to every word of this. I’m sharing this with my adult children and saving these to print & reread frequently when I need a reminder. Thank you!! <3
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.
SUNNY MILLS says
Truly, excellent! It’s not off when you read a post where every single sentence gets better than the one before. This was so beautifully composed. Every concise point worth it’s weight in gold. Thank you so much for this. You are making the world a better place!
Becky says
I am fairly new to your newsletter-only a couple of weeks now. This one hit home. So many points to consider and reread. Your newletter is one of the few that comes to my inbox that I find time almost immediatly to read through. Starting today (#4), I’ll be adding taking the time to make notes in my journal of the points that spoke to my heart. Thank you so much.
Millie says
I’ve been thinking about this lately- im 63 and some days feel older. I don’t want to waste time, not let my gamy and others who are important to me not know how I feel.
Life is short and precious!
Kemeala says
What grabs me is the unique way in which you write your articles. Its absolutely brilliant. I can feel the effect of every word. I can see pictures when i read your articles. I have also shared them with others.
Ron Hochhauser says
Well, like it’s said, “You Guys hit the nail on the head!” Well for me anyway! At 82, wife is 80, our Kids said it was time for “THE TALK!” No, we already talked about the birds and bees, so what’s up? Oh, the talk about living away from Family when the need for comfort and understanding when we get too old to take care of ourselves or even if one of us passes on! Long story short, my Wife of 59 years and I just moved from Sunny Florida to Brr, Pittsburgh! So we’ve been here a couple of weeks, another adventure!
J says
This whole article was so full of gems, but my FAVORITE part has to be:
“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.”
I feel like this is so important, it should be memorized in schools along with the “Pledge of Allegiance”!! haha! or maybe I’m just too sensitive to guilty feelings, but this line is the pinnacle for me.. just so perfectly said. I love all the writings on this site and have been subscribed for a few years now. Thanks for these words! It was inspiring and freeing for me!
Lynda says
I just recently lost my husband on October 8th, and I am experiencing things I never thought I would have to deal with. And I just happened to see your article on line and took time to read it. It’s amazing how it spoke to my very soul. I have been in so much mental pain since my husband passed away, but this article has opened my eyes to live every day as if it were last. Thank you so much for your encouraging words. I look forward to your emails.
Delanna Chambers says
This post came right on time for me as I was one of those people who couldn’t wait for 5pm to end the workday, better yet, even Friday! My Dear Mother used to tell me to “wake up and smell the Roses”, perhaps this blog/post, was a wake up call/ reminder for me to do just that and enjoy life more!
Ceola Johnson says
This was a beautiful article. It warmed me to read it.
Nicole says
What a beautiful article I came across! Empty fatigue vs gratifying exhaustion is profound. I am in my 50s and am now choosing jobs that I truly enjoy. What a difference life is now! I truly loved the analogy with the father – incredible way of putting it.
Lindsey says
Echoing another commenter, this post is a shining light! Thank you for this, going through heartache and growth right now and I needed this at this exact time. Off to take back my life and spread the love. God bless.
Sunflower says
Wow! As a 68 year old, I can relate to the messages in this article all too well. You really speak to my heart and life experiences as you obviously do for others. It is never too late to find new life in yourself, your world view, and your contribution to others.
David says
Greetings,
I stumbled across your article and being an old dufer, thought I’d read and see how closely we agree/disagree with each other, about the important things in life…my findings, “an excellent article”…i plan to share your article with our adult children & grand children. Many have struggled (as we all do) and i believe this will be an encouragement to them…Thank you for what you do… Blessings, David Ingram
Nikki says
As a younger wise “old” person, I just have to say this post is completely lovely! I am printing out many copies and sending to the people I love! This should honestly be given to every human being, every decade they are alive! No doubt everyone should read this, at least a dozen times or so!!! Wisdom for your entire life!!
Nieves says
This was absolutely beautiful! I needed to find this and read this today! Thank you!
Blaise Brugger says
Thank you, one of the best things I’ve read recently. Just what I needed.
Nu says
Truly one of the best articles I’ve read in awhile – simple and encouraging!
Andy Emparan says
In the Musical Pippin there is a line in one of the songs that is a Key to life, “Time is Livings Prize”.
When we resort to the Me/Myself/I reaction, in life, we are only thinking about ourselves. Not realizing that difficulty happens. Change is inevitable, if not permanent.
The Beautiful Element is Time.
Time to grow.
Time to Marry.
Time to Raise a Family.
Time to say I Was Wrong.
Time to Let Go n Forgive.
Time To learn…..
So Soon We Get Old,
So late We Get Wise !
Enjoy your Life….it’s the only one you get.
Peace Æ
Jane says
Just found this by accident, but it wasn’t an accident. It’s what I really needed. I needed to hear every word of this. Thank you so much. It will probably have the most impact on my life and others.
Lily says
Timely reminders for all. Every one of us is on the same journey. We are so much more alike than different.
Thank you.
Joe says
I turned 75 October 24, 2023 and have found myself more aware of my mortality in the last couple years than ever before.
Your article was a God send for me. It will help me appreciate all I have been blessed with and try to live each day to the best of my ability .
Thank you for your insight.
Jeffrey Torrez says
What a remarkable post. I really enjoyed reading this. It has opened my eyes even more. What I been through and still what’s ahead of me. This has given be such and eye opener, to how I should be more loving, kind, forgiving, and not so angry. Even towards others. Thank You Both.
Lauren Bolte says
Wonderful and very uplifting article!! Thank you for it!! I really loved the kindness parts, but most especially I LOVED the black and red dots part from the 80 year old father!! What a cool, important concept. Similar life learned wisdom shared from elders would be a fascinating future article perhaps!? ???? Thanks again!
Claudia says
I happened across your article today and it struck a chord with me. I am finishing my Bachelor’s degree at the age of 55. Lately, I have been reflecting back on the many missed opportunities and years I piddled away in my youth. So many times in your 20’s you’re told, “You’re young, you still have plenty of time.” I wish I wouldn’t have listened to that. Time is fleeting. Thank you for reminding me to look forward, and be grateful for my accomplishments. I love what you said–every person I see is a human filled with hopes, dreams, failures, and loss, just like me. Now, I’m going to go spread that kindness you mentioned–something of which this world definitely needs more.
Rick Mayhew says
Earl Nightingale summarized a few great thinkers ideas by saying, “We become what we think about. Everything you and I will ever have will come to us as the result of the way we use our minds, the one thing we possess that makes us different from all other creatures.”
To test this, just observe what you are thinking about during the day.
Rose Isassi says
So true, before you know it most of your life is in the rear view mirror. But as long as your still in the driver’s seat, mentally, you still have options. Make them count, squeeze all the joy, amazement, love, with compassion and grace. Make peace with with yourself and love yourself. Thank you for reminder
Mark Glasser says
I really liked your article and wish more people could read it and practice more of your 10 points.
I have a saying that goes like this: “The more you do for others, the better you will feel about yourself.”
Marda says
Thank you for this post. I will be 67 next month, recently retired, and relocated to a new area. I now have everything I’ve ever wanted but I’m so aware of time. Your posts remind me to make everyday matter. It’s easy to forget that I have a lot to be thankful for.
Purvi Mistry says
That’s a lovely article to remind us of the little things in life that matter. Tx for sharing.
Scott Siwicki says
After suffering an acute stroke. It cost me my job, home, health. You get the picture. I made better progress post stroke then expected. There have been many struggles to keep moving forward. I have met others who gave up the fight afterward. Seeing little progress in recovery. Each day is a new challenge. But I did not give up.
All your points today are very good. And worth reading. And following. Thank you.
Scott
Vanessa says
What resonates most with me is that time is short and the mist painful experience of my life right now will one day be part of my history.