Why We Should All Think About Death
Thinking about our own mortality can help us to make more intentional and purposeful decisions.
Earlier this week, I attended the funeral of a friend's mom. I went to support my work friend, but I left with a renewed sense of gratitude for life, and for what I do with my time on earth. Does that sound weird? Maybe it shouldn't. Research shows that contemplating death can have many positive effects on how we live our lives.
As an executive coach, I work with individuals who are striving for success in their personal and professional lives. One topic that often comes up in our sessions is the fear of failure and the pressure to make the "right" decisions.
While it's understandable to want to avoid failure and make the best choices, thinking about our own mortality can actually put these decisions into perspective.
Contemplating our mortality reminds us that our time on this earth is limited. It forces us to examine our priorities and consider what really matters. How we spend our time and make decisions becomes much more significant... clock's ticking.
Thinking about death can also help us to let go of the fear of failure. When we recognize that our time is limited, we become less concerned with the opinions of others and more focused on living a meaningful life.
How much will this decision matter in a day/week/month/year?
Considering our mortality can lead to greater gratitude for the present moment and the people in our lives. This helps us to prioritize our time and energy, focusing on what truly brings us joy and fulfillment.
Reflection Questions
- What activities or commitments do I currently engage in that do not align with my values and goals?
- If I knew that I only had one year left to live, how would I spend my time differently? What changes would I make in my life?
- What fears or anxieties am I holding onto that are preventing me from pursuing my passions or taking risks?
- Who are the most important people in my life, and how can I show them more appreciation and gratitude?
- What steps can I take today to prioritize my goals and values and live a more intentional life?
