Sustainable personal and professional peak performance starts with something deep inside us. Even if we are initially inspired by others, there has to be some inner driving force to keep us moving forward. If you’re ever struggling to find that deep motivation, just remember you’re going to die. We all are. It’s an equal-opportunity truth.
For me, embracing a keen sense of my own mortality was triggered by losing both of my parents within a relatively short period of time. It’s a process I wouldn't wish on anyone. Yet, once I allowed myself to bask in this certainty, my dreams started coming true. Here are five mantras that will help you harness this universal human reality to become the very best version of yourself:
It’s OLOY, not YOLO. People love to use “You only live once!” as the excuse for doing things that actually move themselves farther from their goals. Instead, make it about maximizing this unique and precious gift. Do things that give you energy and allow you to honor yourself. One Life. One You.
None of us are getting out of this thing alive. Worried about the judgment of others? Guess what? They’re all going to die too. They have their own problems. That’s why they’d rather pick on you. Ignore them, focus on your own life, and do your thing.
It’s not life or death. Allowing ourselves to be fully panicked by the idea of ceasing to exist is great for providing instant perspective. Keep this in mind next time you’re tempted to freak out about something. If it’s not life or death, don’t treat it like it is.
Today is a gift; that’s why they call it the present. It’s one of the cornier image quotes but it’s true. Count your blessings, say thank you, and treat today like it could be your last day on earth. It might be. Who knows?
You have an echo. Aside from living an amazing life, the side effect to all of this is the legacy you leave behind. The work of being the very best you can be for yourself and everyone around has rewards that will continue to ring long after you are gone. In this way, we live forever.
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