When I lost a friend to cancer last year, leaving behind a young family, it made me realize that life is truly impermanent for everybody, including our loved ones. One regret of my friend, and for many who are at the end of life, is ‘I did not live the life of my dreams’.
Imagine on your deathbed, you realize you have achieved all your goals, fulfilled your dreams, and made a positive impact on the world. How would you feel, knowing that you have lived full and are ready to die empty?
This is not about recklessness or selfishness, but about intentionality and purposefulness. “Live full and die empty” is a philosophy that encourages living life to the fullest, embracing opportunities, experiences, and personal growth, and not leaving any potential untapped.
Here are some ways to live a life that embodies this philosophy:-
Entrepreneurship
Entrepreneurship involves pursuing passion, creating value, and solving world problems. It’s not just about making money; it’s about making a difference. Starting a business allows you to express your talents, learn new skills, and overcome challenges. It’s a practical area that can help you live full and die empty, fulfilling your potential and leaving a legacy. Entrepreneurs who embody this philosophy often invest their energy into their ventures, leaving nothing unexplored.
Travel & exploration
A rich life involves exploring new experiences, such as solo backpacking trips, cultural exchanges, or volunteering abroad. This hobby enriches life with meaningful experiences, learning opportunities, and personal growth. It also contributes to the world by sharing insights, skills, and compassion. Travel and exploration help discover one’s true potential, overcome fears, and fulfil dreams, leaving a positive legacy for oneself and others.
Creative Pursuits
Artists, writers, and musicians who dedicate themselves to their craft, pushing boundaries and experimenting with new techniques, strive to live full and die empty by pursuing their creative passions. These pursuits not only provide enjoyment but also benefit mental and emotional health by helping to cope with stress, boost self-esteem, and stimulate the brain. By pursuing these passions, individuals can live a fulfilling life and leave a lasting legacy that inspires others.
Personal development
Personal development is a crucial aspect of personal growth that allows individuals to live full and die empty. It involves continuously learning, challenging oneself, and stepping out of their comfort zones. This can involve pursuing higher education, mastering new skills, or confronting fears and limiting beliefs. By investing in oneself, individuals can achieve their goals, fulfil their dreams, and make a positive impact on the world. This approach leads to a life rich in meaning, purpose, and joy, leaving a lasting legacy.
Philanthropy
Living full and dying empty involves making a positive impact on society through charitable donations, volunteering, or advocating for causes. This involves using talents and resources to create lasting change in communities and beyond. Philanthropy and social impact are not limited to the wealthy or famous, but can benefit everyone by boosting happiness, health, and a sense of purpose. By giving back, individuals enrich the lives of others, fulfil their potential, and leave a legacy that inspires others to do the same.
Relationships and Connections
Living a full life involves cultivating meaningful relationships with loved ones, cherishing every moment together, and creating lasting memories. This philosophy prioritizes quality time, empathy, and authentic connections with others. These relationships enrich life, leave a positive impact, and provide joy, support, and opportunities for growth. By investing in relationships, individuals not only fulfil their own needs but also contribute to others, living for a purpose bigger than themselves. They leave a legacy of love, living full and dying empty.
Health and Wellness
Living ‘full and dying empty’ involves nourishing one’s physical, mental, and emotional well-being through healthy habits, mindfulness, and balance in all aspects of life. This involves avoiding processed foods, added sugars, salt, and trans fats, drinking plenty of water, exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, managing stress, cultivating positive relationships, engaging in hobbies and interests, and seeking professional help if needed.
By following these tips, one can live a full and fulfilling life, ensuring they are nourishing their body, mind, and soul, and maximizing their potential for vitality and longevity. Remember, you only have one life to live, so make it count and live full and die empty.