Life is precious and fleeting. Each day offers a new opportunity to live fully and purposefully. Inspired by the stories of remarkable individuals who made the most of their short lives, I am committing to embracing these values for the rest of my life. In writing this, I will share with you the names of people who chose to live their lives, all because life is short.
1. Life is short, so cherish every moment.
Most of us rush through our days, caught up in the hustle and bustle, often taking the small, beautiful moments for granted. I’ve been guilty of this too, focusing on the future instead of appreciating the present. At times, I am just in front of my computer. I write. I think. But I forget time passes me by. There are many moments, outside of my house, that I could have cherished.
Anne Frank was a young girl who lived during one of the most challenging times in history, the Holocaust. Despite the danger and fear surrounding her, Anne wrote a diary that captured her dreams, hopes, and the beauty she saw in life. Her words have touched millions of hearts, reminding us to appreciate every small joy. Like Anne, let’s cherish each moment, finding beauty even in difficult times.
I will keep a daily gratitude journal, noting the little moments of joy and appreciation. Each evening, I will reflect on three things that made my day special.
2. Life is short, so spread kindness generously.
In our busy lives, we often overlook the importance of kindness, forgetting how powerful even small acts can be. I’ve sometimes been too focused on my tasks to notice opportunities to spread kindness. It is good that my son thinks that being kind is a part of life. For example, he thinks that giving food or money to beggars is a good thing. Of course, there are other ways of spreading kindness. Fred Rogers has shown another example.
Fred Rogers, known as Mr. Rogers, was a beloved television personality who dedicated his life to teaching children about kindness and empathy. His gentle demeanor and thoughtful lessons created a world of understanding and compassion. Mr. Rogers showed us that even small acts of kindness can make a significant difference. By spreading kindness generously, we can create a ripple effect of positivity.
I will perform one act of kindness each day, whether it’s a kind word, a helping hand, or a small gift to someone in need. I will also volunteer for a local charity once a week.
3. Life is short, so pursue your passions.
Many people set aside their passions, believing they’ll have time for them later or that they’re not important enough. I’ve also fallen into the trap of prioritizing work over what I love. I love my work, of course. But I have other “loves” in my life that I was not able to enjoy. Perhaps, doing a bit of a van Gogh can put more life into a short life.
Vincent van Gogh was a passionate painter who created art that expressed his deepest emotions. Despite not being recognized during his lifetime, he continued to paint because it was his true calling. Today, his works are celebrated worldwide. Van Gogh’s story teaches us to follow our passions, no matter the obstacles, and to stay true to what makes us feel alive.
I will dedicate time each week to my passion for writing and having conversations with people. I will also start a personal project that excites me, like writing a short book or creating a new training program. I love gardening. I love taking photographs. And I love walking.
4. Life is short, so forgive and move forward.
Many of us hold onto past grievances, letting them weigh us down and affect our well-being. I’ve struggled with this too, finding it hard to let go of certain resentments. Last night, I told my wife that I was overstressed for the last three months. That’s because I felt betrayed. I had resentments. One person I admire is Nelson Mandela.
Nelson Mandela spent 27 years in prison during the apartheid era in South Africa. Instead of harboring resentment, he chose forgiveness and reconciliation upon his release. Mandela became a symbol of peace and unity, showing us that forgiveness can heal and create a better future. By letting go of grudges, we can move forward with a lighter heart.
I will practice forgiveness by letting go of past grievances and focusing on positive relationships. I will reach out to someone with whom I’ve had a disagreement and make amends.
5. Life is short, so spend time with loved ones.
In our quest for success, we often neglect our relationships, taking our loved ones for granted. I’ve been guilty of prioritizing work over spending quality time with family and friends.
Orville and Wilbur Wright, the inventors of the airplane, achieved greatness through their strong bond as brothers. Their collaboration and mutual support were key to their success. The Wright brothers remind us that spending time with loved ones can lead to extraordinary accomplishments. Cherish your relationships and make time for those who matter most.
I will schedule regular family time, such as weekly dinners and monthly outings. I will also make an effort to connect with friends I haven’t seen in a while. It is often my wife who does the scheduling, and I was just like a floating dead fish. No more. Life is too short to be a dead fish.
6. Life is short, so be grateful every day.
It’s easy to focus on what we lack or what goes wrong in our lives, overlooking the good things. I’ve caught myself doing this, missing out on the joy that gratitude brings.
Maya Angelou, a celebrated writer and poet, faced many challenges in her life but always found reasons to be grateful. Her poetry and writings inspire us to recognize and appreciate the blessings we have, no matter how small. By cultivating an attitude of gratitude, we can find joy and contentment in our everyday lives.
I will begin each day with a moment of gratitude, acknowledging the good in my life. I will also express my gratitude to others, letting them know how much I appreciate them.
7. Life is short, so keep learning and growing.
Many people stop actively seeking new knowledge and skills, becoming complacent in their routines. I’ve sometimes found myself stuck in this comfort zone. Yes, I learn each day. My purpose was always to teach. But perhaps, I can learn something beyond the intention of teaching. Life is short, but learning will multiply wonderful experiences.
Marie Curie, the pioneering scientist who discovered radium, exemplified lifelong learning and perseverance. Despite numerous obstacles, she remained dedicated to her research. Curie’s story encourages us to stay curious and continue learning, no matter our age or circumstances. Each day is an opportunity to grow and expand our knowledge. No, I have no plan to stay in a laboratory for 16 hours a day. Life is my laboratory of learning.
I will commit to learning something new each week, whether it’s through reading a book, taking an online course, or attending a workshop. I will also set personal growth goals and track my progress.
8. Life is short, so take care of your health.
In our busy lives, we often neglect our physical and mental health, thinking we can deal with it later. I’ve been guilty of prioritizing work over my well-being. I no longer jog or walk. I had so much time in a day to exercise, but I didn’t.
Steve Jobs, co-founder of Apple, emphasized the importance of health in achieving one’s goals. Even as he faced serious health issues, he continued to innovate and inspire. Jobs’ life reminds us that taking care of our physical and mental well-being is crucial for success. Prioritize your health to live your best life.
I will prioritize my health by exercising regularly, eating a balanced diet, and getting enough rest. I will also practice mindfulness and meditation to maintain my mental well-being.
9. Life is short, so live authentically.
Many people hide their true selves, conforming to others’ expectations instead of embracing their authenticity. I’ve sometimes found it challenging to be completely authentic. But the other day, it dawned on me that I was never comfortable listening to my bio sketch read every time I was introduced. It was written for personal branding. The facts were real. But it was not the expression of my values. I don’t see myself as a thought leader. I am always a student of the game called Life. I am a player, not a coach.
Frida Kahlo, the renowned artist, expressed her true self through her vibrant and emotive paintings. Despite facing numerous personal challenges, she remained authentic and used her art to share her story. Kahlo’s life teaches us the power of being true to ourselves. Embrace your uniqueness and live authentically.
I will be true to myself in my personal and professional life, making decisions that align with my values. I will also express my authentic self through my work and creative projects.
10. Life is short, so make a positive impact.
Many people believe they can’t make a significant impact and shy away from taking action. I’ve sometimes doubted my ability to effect change.
Malala Yousafzai, a young activist for girls’ education, stood up against oppression even when it was dangerous. Her bravery and dedication have made a significant impact on the world. Malala’s story inspires us to take action and make a positive difference, no matter our age. You have the power to change the world. While listening to Malala, I was amazed by what a young girl, barely half my age, had done. I too can make a big difference.
I will actively seek opportunities to contribute to my community and support causes that matter to me. I will also mentor and inspire others to make a positive impact in their ways.
Life is short, so what?
Life is short, but it is filled with opportunities to live meaningfully. By cherishing moments, spreading kindness, pursuing passions, forgiving, valuing loved ones, practicing gratitude, learning continuously, prioritizing health, living authentically, and making a positive impact, we can make the most of our lives. Let these commitments inspire you too to embrace each day with purpose and joy.
Life is Short (Poem)1
Life is short, a fleeting dance,
Moments pass like grains of sand.
Cherish each with open heart,
Find the beauty in every part.
Life is short, so spread your light,
Kindness shines in darkest night.
Small acts ripple, wide and far,
Be a gentle, guiding star.
Life is short, pursue your dreams,
Follow passions, wild extremes.
Paint your canvas, sing your song,
Find the place where you belong.
Life is short, let go, forgive,
Resentments die, and you will live.
Free your heart from heavy chains,
Peace and joy are what remains.
Life is short, spend time with love,
Family, friends, a gift from above.
In their presence, find your grace,
Moments shared, a warm embrace.
Life is short, be grateful, see,
Every blessing, life's decree.
Count your joys, both large and small,
Gratitude will lift them all.
Life is short, keep learning, grow,
Curiosity will lead, you'll know.
Knowledge blooms, a boundless sea,
Expand your mind, and you will be.
Life is short, take care, be kind,
To body, spirit, and your mind.
Health is wealth, your greatest gift,
Nurture it, and you will lift.
Life is short, be true, be you,
Authenticity will see you through.
In your truth, you'll find your way,
Live your values, day by day.
Life is short, make an impact, strive,
Leave a mark, keep hope alive.
You have the power, change the world,
Let your banner be unfurled.
Life is short, a precious chance,
Seize each day, join the dance.
Live with purpose, heart and soul,
In this journey, find your goal.
- A poem created by ChatGPT4o. I posted this article and asked it to create a poem. I also discovered that it can read the poem for me. Amazing technology ↩︎
