One Question for Living Every Year Like It’s Your Last
In 2022, for reasons I can no longer remember, I was reflecting on the fragility of life and evolving a new annual planning and goal-setting practice. In a world where we often live under the illusion of unlimited time, it’s easy to forget that life is finite and unpredictable — a realization that may seem morbid but is profoundly practical.
Some of us move through life as if time were an infinite resource as if we are guaranteed a long and healthy existence. This is a dangerous notion that can only result in pain. In recent years, I’ve begun to recognize the importance of surfacing and focusing on what truly matters, an essential pursuit to get the most value from our precious moments.
From the moment we are conceived, we are dying. Embracing this fundamental truth is a call to live intentionally. In war-torn regions, where the threat of unexpected death is ever-present, people naturally develop a heightened awareness of life’s impermanence. In contrast, those of us in relative safety and comfort often ignore the possibility of an untimely demise.
It’s a tragedy to live without acknowledging this reality. That’s why my annual planning practice now begins with a simple yet profound question: What would I aim to achieve, experience, enjoy, or savor if this were my last year on Earth in this incarnation? The inspiration for this shift came from a quote I used to carry in my wallet, a daily reminder of our ultimate reality: “Remembering that you are going to die is the best way I know to avoid the trap of thinking you have something to lose” — Steve Jobs.
This practice doesn’t advocate for creating a rigid checklist of musts because this approach may cause unnecessary stress and anxiety for many of us. Instead, it encourages a mindful exploration of desires, dreams, and aspirations. I like using the word “aim” with this practice, which invites us to reflect on the experiences we want to collect, unburdened by the pressure of ticking off every box.
Part of the benefit of this practice is avoiding the pitfalls of regret and unfinished business. It’s a call to clear thinking and action, a commitment to making each day count. By acknowledging the impermanence of our existence, we unlock the potential for a more fulfilling and purpose-driven life. In this way, we can embrace the wisdom that today is the best day to begin the rest of our lives.
