What's mortality for?

personal development Nov 08, 2021
Scott Perry at the cemetery

That life ends is a fact.

For some, the inevitability of death is a cause of fear. For others, that our time ends is a motivator to make the most of whatever time we have left.

“Think of yourself as dead. You have lived your life. Now, take what’s left and live it properly.”—Marcus Aurelius

Memento mori (remember you die) is a time-tested approach advocated by those interested in the art of living well that informs modern therapeutic practices like positive psychology.

I believe that the fact that it will end is at the heart of life’s value.

The worth of a life is measured by the contribution made while you are able.

Don't die with the difference only you can make still inside.

We are inherently social creatures. It’s how we survived and developed language (and our prefrontal cortex) when we first arrived on the planet. The dark side of our social nature is tribalism, leading to unhealthy behavior that impedes our well-being.

You enhance your own life most through endeavors that serve others.

The quality of your contribution defines the content of your character. How you frame yourself and your situation and what you decide to do next inform who we are and whom we seek to become. 

Legacy isn’t the monuments and money you leave behind. It’s the difference you make with and for others today.

Meditate on your death. Then take whatever you have left and live it on purpose.

Don’t die with the difference only you can make still inside. We need you.

Live your legacy.


Scott Perry, Chief Difference-Maker at Creative on Purpose

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