Living with Purpose: Two Essential Rules for a Fulfilling Life
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Chapter 1: Awakening to Life
Life is filled with fears that can be daunting: the passage of time, sacrifices made, feelings of regret, loneliness, and the comfort of misery. Additionally, the fear of stagnation and self-doubt about achieving one's dreams can be overwhelming. However, when confronting these fears, I often return to two guiding principles.
The first principle is to truly recognize that you are alive. Many people go through life unaware of their existence, which is a terrifying thought. My motivation for writing self-help content stems from a desire to reach those who are unaware of their own lives and futures. Ignoring life can lead to a deathbed filled with regret.
David Goggins, a retired Navy SEAL, vividly illustrated this when he reflected on a turning point in his life: “As I ran past a graveyard, I wondered how many people there regretted their lives. I didn’t want to be one of them.” The fear of regret is profound, and the thought of never fully awakening to one's existence is even worse.
This is why I write: to encourage people to awaken to their lives. It's about living with intention. Awareness of the choices you make, even if they don’t lead to action, is crucial. While we, as writers, can share insights, the responsibility for change ultimately lies with you.
It’s startling how many people remain unaware of their own lives until it’s too late. As we age or become set in our ways, the opportunity for change may slip away. Entrepreneur Gary Vaynerchuk emphasizes this urgency: “We only get one shot at life. Many live as if they’ll get another chance. But you won’t!”
Embrace the reality of mortality; it should inform how you choose to live.
Chapter 2: Pursuing Your Dreams
The second principle is the importance of having something to strive for. Chasing a dream gives life meaning and purpose, and it fosters personal growth. If we aren’t moving forward, we are stagnating. As Tony Robbins aptly puts it, “Without growth, we are dying.”
You have the power to create your own purpose. Too often, people wait passively for life to hand them answers. Instead, actively seek out what matters to you. Viktor Frankl, in "Man’s Search for Meaning," reminds us that life asks each of us questions that we must respond to through our actions.
Pursue worthwhile goals, even without guarantees of success. The journey itself is what matters; it’s not merely an obstacle to reach the destination. Rather, the process is intertwined with your aspirations. When you chase a dream, you are actively engaging in life, growing, and finding significance.
As Elizabeth Gilbert suggests, if success happens to find you while pursuing your dream, let it catch you working hard. If you haven’t yet discovered your passion, don’t be discouraged. It may take time and exploration, but every experience contributes to your growth and understanding of yourself.
Moreover, remember that while passion is important, it’s not the only aspect of life that matters. Focus on nurturing relationships, financial stability, and health. These facets are also essential for a fulfilling life. You likely have aspirations in these areas too, and it’s possible to grow in them while seeking your true passion.
I know many of you may not feel okay right now. My hope is to inspire you to take meaningful action. Have you truly awakened to your life? Are you living with intention? Are you chasing something? Are you growing or stagnating?
I believe in your potential. Do you believe in yourself enough to treat yourself with care and responsibility, as Jordan Peterson urges?
You have one life. Just one. Regardless of your beliefs about the afterlife, it’s wise to treat this existence as your only chance.
What will you do with this precious life? How will you choose to live?