“Remembering that I’ll be dead soon is the most important tool I’ve ever encountered to help me make the big choices in life. Because almost everything — all external expectations, all pride, all fear of embarrassment or failure — these things just fall away in the face of death, leaving only what is truly important. Remembering that you are going to die is the best way I know to avoid the trap of thinking you have something to lose. You are already naked. There is no reason not to follow your heart…. Have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become.” ~ Steve Jobs
Lance writes stories from his heart, aiming to inspire and motivate, as you align more fully with YOUR true peak. When he’s not here, you can find him hanging out with his family, riding a bike, or just generally acting goofy.
Sign up for the Thoughts from the Treehouse newsletter and get additional inspiration in your email inbox!
Lance,
As always.…beautiful thought!
So delicately does it capture the true essence of life and living. I am reminded of my own state of mind when i was facing the swine flu crisis and ended up contacting everybody to make a connection. That was really an uplifting experience for me. somehow when i was faced with THE END in reality i thought of everybody i had come across all through my life and i just had to thank them for all they had taught me.
But living everyday like it were your last helps immensely in making the most intuitive decisions..and somehow it brings out the soulfulness in every act. Every moment is memorable, every experience profound, every person in your life important. I dont think we can go wrong at all…if we can manage to adopt that frame of mind. Living life to the fullest RIGHT NOW!
.-= Zeenat{Positive Provocations}´s Last Fabulous Post ..LOOKING WITHIN YOUR HEART{Inspirational Quote Of The Week} =-.
these things just fall away in the face of death, leaving only what is truly important.
wouldnt it be absolutely amazing if we could all follow his quote. live the above snippet and realize that the petty crap really and truly does not matter.
it would be so freeing and, yes, in a way entirely terrifying to be so freed.
.-= Miz´s Last Fabulous Post ..First Person Friday: Im my own superhero. =-.
Great thought here Lance. When I graduated from Seminary my Academic Advisor gave me a book that transformed my thoughts about ministry. It’s entitled “Called To Be Faithful, Not Successful”. Too often we get caught up in the “success-syndrome” of life and forget that in the end, as you say here, “we all die”.
Oh my goodness. So powerful. So very powerful. I’m hitting the print button on this right now.
.-= Yum Yucky´s Last Fabulous Post ..Just Added! Sonic Cheat Sheet: 400 Calories or Less =-.
Lance,
I almost started crying as I read this. I’ve lived for a few years now by reminding myself everyday that today could be my last. Maybe recently I’ve stopped doing this, because this was such a powerful reminder. Jobs is so right that everything unimportant falls away in the face of this truth, or maybe we know what’s important and what’s not by what falls away and what doesn’t. Thanks for this today Lance. I’m in a fragile mood as you know, and needed to hear this instead of being caught up in the little cares of life.
.-= Daphne @ Joyful Days´s Last Fabulous Post ..Are Enlightenment and Intimacy Compatible? =-.
Wonderful. “Have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become.” This really is so true. Now, if I could just get my head to realize it…
.-= Adrenalynn´s Last Fabulous Post ..A day in the life =-.
What a wonderful quote, and even more powerful knowing about Steve’s health issues. I can’t imagine what it would be like to have someone tell me I may not live past Christmas, but that’s what this quote conjures up in my mind. It would encourage me to live all out, for one thing, chasing only what felt truly important — meaning that which comes from my heart. I’d also probably drop all the nonsensical worries I let float around in my head. Most importantly, I’d make time to spread more love in the world. I’d do the things I always say I want to, but don’t make time for.
As Adrenalynn said, I know this stuff, but if I could just get my head to put it into a “livable” format. Turn the concept into an everyday energy.
I needed this today, so thank you, Lance.
.-= Megan “JoyGirl!” Bord´s Last Fabulous Post ..What You Already Are (Quote from Adyashanti) =-.
I wish we didn’t have to think about the end day to act today. I wish as humans we just naturally were compelled to act with the heart. Human beings what to be compassionate, thoughtful, caring, wise etc. We let fear creep in. or …complacency…or busyness. I love Steven Covey and he talks about being “proactive” and “filling the emotional bank” of those around us. I love that concept. I also want to do it as an alive and well person, not think of it as a person who is going to die. I know you read my “Come From the Heart” post so you know where I am coming from..but maybe another line in the song could be…Act and Love as if you were dying…as if you had a limited time to appreciate life. In fact…we do! Thanks for your comments, it’s great to be back into posting and commenting.
.-= avtcoach´s Last Fabulous Post ..Come From The Heart =-.
Lance — what an inspiring quote from Steve Jobs. I read the quote before I scrolled down far enough to see who wrote it. Thank you — my spirit needed lifting this morning and these are great words to live by.
.-= Lynn´s Last Fabulous Post ..Shining water, catching up and happy news =-.
Another view is death does not exist.Make the most of every moment and you no longer focus on illusions. You forget what they are.
.-= Liara Covert´s Last Fabulous Post ..7 eureka thoughts to shift perception =-.
Lance:
Wow, that’s a great quote from Steve Jobs. I’ve seen his graduation speech and it is particularly inspiring. It’s a shame that there are so many forces out there that distract and prevent us to “go for it,” but death is a good motivating factor. Thanks for sharing this and getting Sunday off to a great start!
.-= Tim´s Last Fabulous Post ..Receiving Advice =-.
Wow. This post made me stop in my tracks. What a very powerful message, it’s time to start living!
3 Cheers,
Joanna
.-= Joanna´s Last Fabulous Post ..Sunday School =-.
Lance, FANTASTIC QUOTE. I absolutely love it. Thanks for sharing it.
.-= Stephen — Rat Race Trap´s Last Fabulous Post ..The Best Ways To Not Sweat The Small Stuff – Part I =-.
Hey Lance! Excellent quote. This really is a signal for a “call to action”. Invest the remaining life you have to pursue your dreams, because once it’s done — game over. Truly though, I have to copy and paste this quote on my desktop. The next time I get embarrassed, I’ll just read this and feel awesome.
Have a great Sunday, man.
.-= John´s Last Fabulous Post ..The Top 10 Things to Do When Going After Your Desires =-.
I had a professor in graduate school who started our first class in Adult Development talking about the illusions/assumptions we cling to in order to remain sane. The first one she mentioned is that we will survive the day. It was meaningful to me then, but now, 25 years later and having had my heart stop twice, it means even more. We are already naked and there isn’t anything to lose. As a hospice social worker I help people realize and remember this every day. Steve’s quote will be something I’ll share with each of my hospice families. Thanks, Lance!
.-= Sherrie St. Cyr´s Last Fabulous Post ..You are already naked =-.
Lance,
I have always had this weird fascination w/ Steve Jobs & not just because he started one of the most successful brands and businesses out there. This man seems to have a visionary spirit that not many peeps allow themselves to cultivate. His commencement speech a few years ago completely floored me. It was real & very inspiring.
These words give off a similar vibe. On the heels of my post yesterday, this quote really gets me thinking. Not about how I can go into “fix it” mode but to sit back, take a deep breath, and keep loving & living (foolishly, and be that I mean less trying to make everything be just so). It seems ever since I have opened up about some of my struggles this summer, the universe has been showing me all sorts of care through kind words, inspired quotes, encouraging posts, and happy emails. Very grateful for it ALL!
Everytime I come to this piece of bloggy world, I am taught & encouraged. Thank you Lance for being both a friend & teacher. I have enjoyed getting to know you & your thoughtfulness to me when I am less than my best.
It means a lot, Mr T (short for Trialthlon)!
.-= melly´s Last Fabulous Post ..*SERIES* “Love & A Photo”: Jonathan & Ev‘Yan =-.
Thanks for all you share Lance.
Blessings
Jeanne
.-= Jeanne´s Last Fabulous Post ..I love Oriental Quilts =-.
As usual, this comes at a perfect time for me personally. My grandmother recently died and my father emailed me photos of some of her belongings in his garage. As I looked at the possessions of her life, reduced to three or four boxes. I thought, none of this matters. Only SHE matters.
.-= Chris´s Last Fabulous Post ..Unforgettable =-.
Somehow, someway you knew my heart and spoke directly to it. I needed to read this today Lance. I needed this reminder and I’m deeply grateful that it came through you!
This quote really hits the mark on the head. It’s true that when someone is faced with death, there’s no reason not to follow their hearts or to express how they really feel to others. It’s as if those are rare qualities these days…
.-= Tim´s Last Fabulous Post ..Don’t Work Too Hard Trying to Serve Others =-.
Happy Sunday Lance! Hope you’ve had a great weekend. We have…I haven’t hit any signs and more importantly small children.
I didn’t know Steve Jobs said this. What a testimony for living a full life, today. We all have to “live like we were dying,” because we are. For me there is something inherently sad about thinking this way, I know it should be happy, but even knowing where I’m going when I die doesn’t make death a happy thought. I’m so passionate about my family and I don’t know how anyone will do a thing without me! Just kidding.….but I do hate to think of being separated from them,even for a little while.
.-= Audra Krell´s Last Fabulous Post ..Back to School Unreadiness =-.
“Remembering that you are going to die is the best way I know to avoid the trap of thinking you have something to lose.“
Well isn’t this profound and I’ve never seen this quote. I think for all those whose homes are in forclosure this would be a comforting thought.
Oh and what Zeenat says, “Every moment is memorable, every experience profound, every person in your life important.” I think of all the people who lost their retirement, inheritance etc. in scams the last couple of years and this would be so meaningful in those situations.
Miz…petty crap! That’s the question of the day. Stressed out? Ask myself, Is this petty crap! Move on…
OK Lance I think I’m doing your job! There’s so much wisdom in the comments I couldn’t help myself but I’ll let you take over! You know how to bring the best out in people with only a photo and comment.
.-= Tess The Bold Life´s Last Fabulous Post ..Mondays are 1/7 of Your Life =-.
This is powerful. I will pass this on to a friend who is having to deal with a difficult time in her life. If we focus on what is really important we can spend more time just living and less time wondering. Thank you for this testimony. Have a great Sunday.
.-= Yira´s Last Fabulous Post ..What’s happening here? =-.
I love this quote. I seriously think I should put it on a laminated card and carry it with me everywhere I go and when I’m hesitant to do something just read this
. Thanks for sharing.
.-= Srinivas Rao´s Last Fabulous Post ..My first wave: O velho Brasileiro e sua esposa =-.
Fabulous quote! Why is it we seem to pay more attention to people who are dying and giving us the bottom line truths, than to people alive and well and just living like us? Why is it the great philosophers that we study in school (or should) are all dead people? And still.….…..we aren’t LISTENING. Well sorry, maybe intellectually we are listening but we struggle so to live life with the loving guidance they all offer.
Five years ago, a friend of mine was ill and losing weight. So was I. We had the same symptoms. We went to the doctor, and had tests about the same time, received results together as well. I was facing colon surgery with life-altering repercussions, she had stomach cancer, inoperable. I made up my mind that I would NEVER complain despite a year long long painful recovery because I had the gift of tomorrow and healing. She did not. She died in two months.
I grieved for her, her lost opportunities, her never having tomorrow to look forward to, so many endings, the finality of it all. She, unknowingly, gave me the strength to set records for recovery, along with an attitude and disposition daily that shocked those around me — I was joyous, celebrating everything and anything. And I still am — I won’t let go of that. It was a huge lesson. I didn’t almost die, but I went thru enough (and saw her die) to know life is short and precious! Drop the drama, the whining, the baggage, the worries, the excuses, the fears and all the stuff that hinders, godonlyknows the list is huge, isn’t it?
Thank you Lance, for sharing this quote — it is really such a heartfelt message to us all! It is a gift.
.-= suzen´s Last Fabulous Post ..The Laugh Fest — A Do It Yourself Special =-.
Hi Lance,
It is wonderful to see how both of our posts today deal with the topic of death. I know that quote from Steve Jobs and I have always loved it.
Life can end in a second and so often we forgot about that. I think to the people who worked in the World Trade Center on September 11th. They went to work that morning just like they always did and they had no idea that that morning would be their last.
Life is so precious and so beautiful, it should never be wasted. I learned this lesson first when I almost died at the age of 15 (actually I did die and then came back– a typical near death experience) and then the lesson became more profound to me as I took care of my mother as she died from terminal cancer. I hope that everyone realizes the beauty of the moment without having to have a horrible disease or event that makes them realize that their mortality can happen at any second without their say or approval.
.-= Nadia — Happy Lotus´s Last Fabulous Post ..Sunday Song For August 23, 2009 =-.
Hi Lance,
I really try to live by this and it has helped me tremendously. It has helped me let go of any fear surrounding death. Which has then lead to feeling more free and liberated in living my life. I must remember this so that I keep the people and connections I have front and center. The connundrum is that there is still a fair amount of maintenance that must be done so that my life is not insane! I still must vacuum my floors, run errands for household items and check the mail and pay the bills. Trying to live the quote you are sharing from Steve Jobs means for me, embracing the ordinary as well as the extraordinary. There is meaning in all of it. To be alive and in this moment is really, really, a special gift.
Thank you SO MUCH for your Sunday Thought for the Day! Thank you for your own special contribution to making our lives rich!
.-= Jodi at Joy Discovered´s Last Fabulous Post ..Off the Shelf: Julie & Julia by Julie Powell =-.
Another incredible thought for Sunday, Lance. My blog tagline reads: “Clear Yourself of Limitations and Live a Life Beyond Your Imagination” and I think it fits here. In the face of death, one’s fears, percieved or otherwise, fall away.
Thanks Lance,
Darren
.-= Darren Sproat´s Last Fabulous Post ..The Power of Forgiveness =-.
Great quote. I love quotes. My wife and I have been documenting quotes for a long time. Actually, along the same lines as the quote above, we most recently watched a movie called the Guitar that inspired us to make great change and do what we are truly passionate about. We launched a website on helping people achieve fulfillment. The Guitar (http://www.theguitarthemovie.com/about.htm) is about a woman who lives a drab life and one day she finds out she is going to die and a few other things in the same day (I don’t want to give up the plot). She ends up changing everything and the story of this change is remarkable. “Sometimes to change your life, you must face your own mortality.” — The Guitar
Oh my, I love all of these Steve Jobs quotes. It probably doesn’t help that I’m a pretty hardcore apple fan, either.
That being said, even all of this technology pales in comparison to death.
This is so motivating in so many ways! Lots of to ponder.. what do we want to leave behind? What impact do we want to have on this planet?
.-= Nathalie Lussier´s Last Fabulous Post ..21 Ways to Sneak More Vegetables Into Your Diet =-.
Now that’s a powerful way to live (and which I do my best to emulate). Randy Pausch’s “Last Lecture” is a perfect example of this. Thanks Lance — as always an awesome Sunday Thought.
.-= Sami — Life, Laughs & Lemmings´s Last Fabulous Post ..Friday Question – Obstacles to Achieving Dreams =-.
Beautiful photo, and beautiful quote. We really should stop to remember sometimes that in the grand scheme of things, a lot of the points we concern ourselves with in our daily lives don’t matter in the long run. I have a hard time a lot of the time worrying about death that I sometimes forget to live.
.-= Caity´s Last Fabulous Post ..A reminder of how we should be. =-.
Hi Lance. I’ve been deliriously happy for weeks and it’s been wonderful. Discovering SO much more about myself and the people around me. The idea of death doesn’t even have a place in THIS picture. Speaking of pictures… you’ve picked another great one here. There’s something comforting about a sunset over a calm lake.
.-= Davina´s Last Fabulous Post ..Social Media? Go Ahead, Fly Your Freak Flag =-.
Hi Lance: I do see how remembering that you’re going to die would be a powerful deterrent to the habit of avoiding trying out new things because you might fail. Although what I really try to remember is that people are so interested in themselves that they might talk about you and your failure for a while, but very soon they’ll have forgotten all about you and will be right back to thinking about themselves.
.-= Marelisa´s Last Fabulous Post ..Does Nirvana Reside in the Right-Side of the Brain? =-.
I always enjoy a good Steve Jobs quote!
I found this one especially meaningful for me today, on my birthday, a day that symbolizes me getting older. This quote has really inspired me so thanks so much for choosing to post it today.
.-= positively present´s Last Fabulous Post ..a letter to my older self =-.
It is good to remember that our time on this side is limited. We can either waste it or use it. This reminds me of a list I made a year ago. On it, I had listed 10 ways I wanted to spend my time. If something came up that wasn’t on the list, I would decide if I was willing to trade something on the list for that. If not, I didn’t do it. It made it easier to tell people no and set boundaries. Things on the list included stuff like, work on my business, spend time with hub and family, grow my relationship with God, friend time, creative time, fun and adventure, and so on.
I think we take our days for granted. I know I do. Any day could be our last so why not make everyday the best one yet. There will be things that happen to keep some days from being the best yet, maybe our aunt dies or we get laid off, but with so many good memories of the past and adventures to be had, I don’t think we could stay sad forever.
I’m working on myself on a daily basis.
1. Letting go of my ego.
2. Relaxing in every moment.
3. Bringing work happiness to the everyone that I can reach.
Fear holds me back. When I stop worrying and just try my best that’s when the best stuff usually comes out.
.-= Karl Staib — Work Happy Now´s Last Fabulous Post ..10 Part eCourse to a Happier and More Successful You =-.
Great quote, thanks for sharing. So many people think of remembering death like this as morbid, but I consider that attitude to be more about denial than anything else.
.-= Svasti´s Last Fabulous Post ..Letter to myself aged 12 =-.
Hi Lance,
Isn’t it amazing how those who are closer to death (and know it) often change their outlook on life? It’s often those people who, in the face of death, really begin living.
I have to ask, why does it take being close to death for some of us to think about living the life we are blessed with? To begin living the life we dream of? To tell others we love them? And/or to live each day to the fullest?
Your quote is a great reminder we need to live the best life we can until death comes a knocking.
.-= Barbara Swafford´s Last Fabulous Post ..He Said, She Said, They Said =-.
I had a conversation with someone, who studied quite a bit of philosophy, who said we are all so afraid of our lives because in the end we are afraid to die. And when I thought about that it all made sense.
Monday I have to attend a wake for a 37 year old — he was the brother of a friend. He died in a jet ski accident while on vacation last week. Senseless at such a young age. My whole body got chills when I heard the news. Truly, we just never know. And the petty stuff doesn’t count for anything in the end. So why bother.
.-= Stacey Shipman´s Last Fabulous Post ..Embracing Change =-.
Great quote. It’s so true.
Michelle
WOW! This is a a great post! It really puts life into a whole new perspective. I just wonder what life would be like if we all lived as if tomorrow was our last day.
.-= She-Fit´s Last Fabulous Post ..Eating Out: Key Words to Avoid on a Menu =-.
Wow, what an amazing beautiful post. There are times when I am reminded that our tomorrows are not promised to us. This is one of them. I’m going to try and remember that this week.
.-= Diane, Fit to the Finish´s Last Fabulous Post ..Some Saturday Thoughts =-.
why am i always surprised to read steve jobs quotes? why am i always stunned again and again to find out he’s so incredibly human and divine!
.-= JenX´s Last Fabulous Post ..younger gen-xers turning 30 [excerpt from a new york times opinion editorial] =-.
Thinking of you today and laughing.
.-= Stacey / Create a Balance for Moms´s Last Fabulous Post ..As a Mom, What Legacy Do You Want To Leave Your Children? =-.
@Zeenat — And that’s just it, what really and deeply matters, in the end? It’s our connections with others that have lasting and meaningful impact in our lives. What also really moving here for me, is this mention of the soulfulness in our everyday acts. I find this thought so powerful, when we can touch upon our soul in all our interactions…what a great place to be!
@Miz — That would be so amazing..if we all lived this. Amazing in the sense of how we would truly interact with others, and what would really matter to each of us. And to this thought of it being terrifying — it’s that whole nakedness, or exposing of our true core — which can be very terrifying.
@Dr. Rus — Or maybe…how do you “really” define success. In the typical sense, success is not something that we hold on to. When we’re dying, does any of this typical success really matter? No…
@Yum Yucky — And the more you really let this idea permeate into your being, the more powerful is really is…
@Daphne — Daphne, it’s so good having you here today. You share a real-ness that goes to the core of who you are, and that’s beautiful. And it is because of exactly that — the honesty of it all. And if that’s you (I believe very deeply that it is), then I believe that you know this well, and take to heart what YOU believe. Daphne, know that I care, and that I believe in you…
@Adrenalynn — Oh, this is such a true point, Lynn. Getting our to work with what our heart is saying…so much easier said than done. Maybe it’s in reading accounts like this, or seeing it firsthand in the lives of others we know, that can help us to get our mind working in conjunction with our heart…
@Megan — So true, given Steve’s health concerns — how much meaning this has not only for us, definitely for him. And those crazy worries that float around in our heads (hey, I’ve got them too!), they really wouldn’t matter if our days were numbered. Yet, aren’t are days numbered anyway? We just might not know that number. And spreading love? Megan, you’re doing this! So, keep on doing what you’ve been doing…and just add those final pieces…the things you haven’t made time for..that matter… Thanks so much for all your support, in all the ways you do…
@avtcoach — Without that end, that finality…it can be hard to not say “tomorrow”. And then…does tomorrow ever come? I know what you’re saying, and you’re so right in this — if we could all just naturally follow our bliss, then this whole “end thinking” wouldn’t matter. The truth is, though, that living from the heart is not so easy to do. And that’s because of our egos, and fears, and concerns that we let hold us back from really living. “Act as if”…that’s a powerful statement. Thanks so much for sharing, and it’s great to see you back here.
@Lynn — Lynn, thank you for being here, and it’s so good to hear this quote was uplifting for you…
@Liara — Such a great point. And especially if we believe in that afterlife, or new life beyond our physical being, Heaven…then life is indeed everlasting. Still, our days as the person we are here…that will be transformed into something different at some point in our lives…
@Tim — Going for it…and the fears we associate with this…can be so powerful as to keep us from really listening to our heart. Death…can change that. Although I don’t think we need to face our own morbidity to see the benefit of these wise words — life is to be lived now…no matter what our “death clock” says…
@Joana — Thanks much Joanna…and I agree at just how deeply powerful this is…
@Stephen — Thanks much, Stephen!
@John — Thanks much, John. Now is the time, right! And I hear you about the “embarrassed” part — a little reminder would do me good. Hope your Sunday was great!
Hi Lance,
Reading about Steve Jobs, I get the feeling I should get a Mac.
Now, more seriously, I really feel he’s right. But you know, it’s easy for those who are rich to say go and risk. I’d like to see what those who tried and failed have to say, even if what they say is less pleasing to our eyes.
@Sherrie — Sherrie, this is powerful, what you’re saying, about surviving the day. Especially in light of both where you’ve been personally, and to where you are currently in hospice. And what a gift you are, to those in their final days, and the families who love them. Sherrie, thanks so much for sharing here today.
@Melly — Steve Jobs really seems to “get it”. And maybe it’s that he does get it, in a way that seems unexpected from someone in his field of work. Anyway, I’d have to agree on how inspiring this man is. And I think this fits so well with your post and where that took you personally. You’re hittig upon what matters most, and that’s just such a good place to get to. And I think there is something very freeing about opening up and sharing of yourself. You’re doing that, Melly, and it’s so good to see. And having you here is also a gift, thank you! And hey, I dig the nickname you’ve come up with — it takes me back to 1980’s TV!!
@Jeanne — Thanks so much for being here, Jeanne.
@Chris — So, so true. Chris, thanks for sharing this part of your life here. I’m sure this wasn’t an easy time, as losing someone who matters deeply to us never is. And this idea that what really mattered was that she mattered — Chris, what beautiful insight. we get caught up in having things during our time here on earth, and what really matters is not those things at all. What matters is the people in our lives. So, that’s what is so beautiful here…and I’m sure it’s something you’ll hold onto for a long time to come.…your grandmother and who she was to YOU.
@Tabitha — Tabitha, it’s so good for you to be here. And know that just having your presence here is a light for me. So, that this spoke directly to you, I’m so, so glad to hear that. Peace, my friend…
@Tim | Inspiration Central — Following our hearts, really listening to that deep inner voice…when we’re faced with death this does just seem like something natural that speaks to us. How can we make that our daily way of being, without having to be faced with death to bring it out? I think that’s the real question here, and it’s something that is very personal to every person in this world. I can’t answer that for you or my wife, or the guy across the street. I can only answer that for myself…and that’s challenging enough. And your thought has me thinking of how this applies in my life today…and where I’m really at on this curve…
@Audra — And since it’s been a crazy weekend…Happy Monday Audra! Hey, great job out there, see, the new school year just takes a few days to reall get down. It’s just those first few days everyone has to watch out for you!! Audra, what you’re saying is so true — we are all dying. Unless we have some disease that has limited our remaining time here on earth, we very likely don’t know how long we have left. The truth is, it could be just hours. Scary thought (for me). And yet, since we don’t know for sure how long we have left, it’s hard to think in the mentality…in terms of what do we want our life to represent. There always seems like there’s tomorrow… And kidding or not, I understand what you’re saying. Our family becomes such an important part of our life, and even the thought of being gone can be difficult. And maybe that’s all the more reason this that Steve Jobs is saying is so true…it’s these relationships that matter. Audra, thank you for your beautiful insight today.
@Tess — Tess, such a wonderful thought you’re sharing. I’m not sure it makes it tons easier for those who might be struggling because of the economy, but it’s so true. It’s not the job we’ve had and lost, or the car we no longer drive — that matter. It’s our families, our friends that truly make the difference. Yes, the comments are filled with so much wisdom, and today especially. So good having you here today. Know that I find much comfort in you words and our connection…
@Yira — Hi Yira. Please do pass this on, the more that see this, the better. And to this idea of spending more time living — that sure is in our deep connections with others. Something I experienced this weekend, in some amazing ways, how filled our world is with goodness. And Terie, you have a wonderful week…
@Srinivas — You know, Srinivas, as I’m reading this I’m thinking what a wonderful idea. Having this close by to read at those moments when we’re feeling a little to “caught up” in our possessions or in who we are — what a beautiful thing to read this would be.
@Suzen — Suzen, what a beautiful story of really living you’ve shared here. And it’s not beautiful that your frined passed away from a terrible disease — not at all. What is, though, is how you’ve lived your life in the face of both what you faced (colon cancer) and in just going forth with your life really seeing how deeply precious it is. And for me, this is so powerful today, what you’re saying. I’m moved by how you look at life, and see the beauty in every day and the people you know. Suzen, thank you so much for this today…
@Nadia — Hi Nadia. My thoughts exactly, how wonderful the ideas we focused on were so similar. Know that when I saw what you wrote, I was deeply moved by it, more so than I normally would have been, knowing what I had here. And I just really felt this strong connection to you at that moment. The World Trade Center, and really that whole day — a real example of lives altered in so many places. And it just reiterates the fact that we never do know when the end will come. Nadia, having the experiences you’ve had, I’m sure this has given you a real dose of the finality of our lives here on earth. And a great thought you share about if we haven’t had this, how important it still is for us to recognize that our lives could change in an instant. Thanks so much for being here today, Nadia — and for sharing such beautiful wisdom on your site…
@Jodi — Hi Jodi. Letting go of that fear that can surround death…what a wonderful place to be at. I’m not sure I’m there yet. And I just love what you’re saying about embracing even the ordinary…the things we might not get deep meaning out of normally. Yet, there is meaning there. We are alive. We are living. And no matter how we’re living, even if it isn’t exactly the life we truly desire, there’s still so, so much to be deeply appreciative of. Jodi, this thought by you is really making me think this morning…and to what it all means in my own daily life…thank YOU.
@Darren — Yes, I’d definitely say your tagline is very much in alignment with this thought from Steve Jobs. And it’s such a great thought for us all to remember…about what truly matters in our lives. And I see this that you’re sharing as just more proof of what I’ve seen you live — in the real value of people and how they all matter. Thanks so much, Darren.
@Elliot — Thanks much for stopping by here today, Elliot. And thanks for the link to this movie. It’s one I’ve not heard of. And watching the trailer — I see a movie that has as it’s base the real premise for what life can be about — and also a movie that could be challenging to our own internal thoughts. And really, that’s a very good thing — because when we challenge the thoughts we have and the way we view the world, our whole being can change, especially if it all relates back to our own true core.
@Nathalie — Steve’s quotes just seem to hit a mark, I know. And this all makes him so real. And okay…you being an Apple fan, that probably doesn’t hurt! So, I’m thinking about what you’re saying here, Nathalie, and I can’t help but think of the lives you’re impacting by what you do. And that’s such a wonderful thing. It’s so, so good to have you here…always…
@Sami — The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch is a true example of this — in action. And I think that’s what makes it so powerful for everyone who has witnessed that — just how important the human connection is. Sami, know that you do this for me…make the human connection. And it feels so good…
@Caity — In the “grand scheme of things”…Caity, such wise words. Yes, in the grand scheme of things is what I’m wearing today going to matter. Or who I know…not the connection I have with them. Death is not an easy topic to think about, and that’s because of the finality of it. And yet, if we don’t think about it, we can also sometimes forget to fully live. I know I have. Caity, thank you for all of this.
@Davina — Hi Davina. Maybe in truly living, death doesn’t have a place. For sure, not in those moments when we’re really living our lives. I see the value of thinking about death in the terms of where it can take us toward more real living. And Davina, it sounds like you are really there — and that’s such a beautiful thing! Glad you liked the picture, I thought it fit this so well, for the pondering that could be done from that bench overlooking the lake…
@Marelisa — Hi Mare. You bring up a great point about how we can be very self-absorbed. Getting to that point where we deeply care for others, that’s what really matters. And when we can get to this spot, this is when we’re really living. Mare, know that I see that in you, that you shine that light of goodness within you out into the world…
@Positively Present — Happy Birthday, Dani! As we age, I think we tend to at least in a sense think more about our own mortality. And in so doing, if we can also focus on what matters, in the end — we’ll see that it’s not the things we’ve acquired, it the people we’ve made real and lasting connections with.…
@Laurie — Yes, it is good to remember our time on earth is limited. It puts things into perspective. And your list is a great way to help keep that perspective on what matters to YOU. And to this whole idea of taking our days for granted — you know, that’s such an excellent point. I think so many of us do. I know I do. On a normal day, the thought of my life ending isn’t something that comes up. And I wonder if this holds me back from deeper living? Laurie, I’m really thinking, now, about what this thought means in my life. You’ve really touched upon something I think is so, so important — and often neglected — by most of us — on how we take our days for granted. Thank you so much for this…
@Karl — Fears. Yes, they can certainly hold us back. They hold me back, too. And yet, when we go beyond them, what we almost always find is that these fears just don’t hold up. And how awesome, your list of ways your working on yourself. We can all learn from this, and how to proactively work toward the life we want!
@Svasti — Death can certainly feel morbid, with the end that it brings. However, you bring up a wonderful thought, that maybe it’s all based on denial. The truth is, death awaits us all. Thinking like that, what is it we really want to do in our lives, how do we really want to live? Great questions to think about. Thanks so much for these thoughts today.
@Barbara — Hi Barbara. Yes, those who’ve had either some near-death experience, or have lost a very close loved one — they are changed by this. I think life seems both more real and more finite. And to that, it becomes so worth living. And those are great questions for all of us, Barbara. Life is for living, truly living. No matter what our past experiences. Today is what we have. This moment. Carpe diem! Here’s to really and fully living our lives! Thanks so much for this…
@Stacey Shipman — Death feels so final. No matter what we believe about what is beyond our time here on earth, our life as the person we are now will end. Just typing that, it feels so eery. And hard to fully grasp. If we can somehow work beyond this idea that there is fear of dying, then maybe that takes us more closely into fully living. And maybe that work includes the realization that the end can happen at any moment. Stacey, I’m so sorry to here about this death that you’ve experienced in your life. At such a young age, this is not an easy moment for anyone to come to terms with. And it really just shows also how, when faced with a moment like this, how what matters isn’t the things we’ve acquired, the petty arguments we’ve had, the jealousy we’ve let fester — none of that is what matters. What matters is the love we’ve shown, and been shown, the people we have in our lives that care. Stacey, know that you matter, that what I’ve witnessed from you is a genuine caring for life and those in yours. If there’s any doubt as to what you’re doing, and are you on the right path — you are, my friend…
@Michelle — Thanks much for being here today Michelle.
@She-Fit — Living as if tomorrow were our last day…I think one thing to think about with this would be — would it be an all-out party type of day, or would it be a day where you cherished and nurtured the connections you have already with others. Doing this second choice, that’s real and deeply meaningful living, and a place for all of us to strive for. Thanks so much for this thought today…
Hi Lance .. The quote is a shock — but so true, and put so eloquently by one who knows. People are important things aren’t; the way we behave to each and everyone is important as it may be our last or their last; our thoughts the same … we don’t know, we must always be our best for ourselves, for others.
Your readers have made some awsome comments and really pertinent thoughts .. enlightening us all from your initial thought provoking post ..
Thanks Lance — did you have a monumental laugh on Saturday?
All the best — Hilary Melton-Butcher
Positive Letters Inspirational Stories
.-= Hilary´s Last Fabulous Post ..Pigs, Vineyards, Bloomsbury and murals … =-.
@Diane — Those words — “…that our tomorrows are not promised to us” — Diane, they strike a chord with me this morning. And so your words are helping me to more fully grasp the reach of this quote. Thanks so much for this, and it’s great to have you here.
@JenX — Hi Jen. Steve Jobs really shares truths spoken from the heart. I think it’s surprising, given his background. On the other hand, I think these beliefs are deeply rooted in most of us, it’s just getting to that point of believing (and maybe hearing) the words of our own soul.
@Stacey/Create a Balance — Hi Stacey! Thanks so much! We had a fantastic day on Saturday, so much fun (and laughing)! We’ll talk soon…
@Miguel — Hi Miguel. Ha, yes, I should then get a Mac too, I suppose! You bring up a great point — and I don’t fully know Steve’s background, and what struggles he faced along the way. He has found success in what he’s done, and maybe that’s part of it, continuing to believe in ourselves, and what IS possible. And no matter what others may say, I too believe that Steve Jobs has hit upon something so true to our core, about what really matters in this life…
@Hilary — Hilary, thanks so much. Yes, it really is the people in our lives that matter. And more things, more money — that’s not going to replace what is deeply important. And so much to be learned just from reading through the comments. And about Saturday, wow, it was a wonderful day! So much laughter and joy! More coming on that in the next week or two…
Hi Lance!
I heard that Michael Landon once said that “Someone should tell us at an early age that we’re dying! Live! There are only so many tomorrows”
That thought has stayed with me since hearing it long ago and it resonates well with this quote from Steve Jobs. “There is no reason not to follow your heart…” I am so totally on that same page right now.
Thanks Lance, I realize you hear this all the time ‚but you always provide inspiration and meaningful, compassionate insight. You have a character worth imitating.
.-= Keith´s Last Fabulous Post ..Weigh Anchor! =-.
It’s a great reminder that our time is limited and to make the most of what you’ve got.
If there’s anything to help enforce an attitude of gratitude, this simple reflection is it.
.-= J.D. Meier´s Last Fabulous Post ..Time Management Quotes =-.
Hi again Lance and now… Happy Monday!
I just finally listened to your 8/12 interview.…better late than never, right? Well I had never heard your voice before, I’m having trouble reconciling it with the voice I had assigned you, which is pretty much Gaston from Disney’s Beauty and Beast. But I digress.…great interview, very fun to hear you and I think we best meet in person so I can put everything together live!
.-= Audra Krell´s Last Fabulous Post ..Back to School Unreadiness =-.
Hi Lance! I think about death when I have a stupid argument with my hubby! I think to myself does this really matter! Thinking about death makes me realize that there is so much petty crap that I hold onto. Now I need to follow my heart so I can see what I’m supposed to become. Anything but this bundle of fear that I am! All we have is this moment, and I’ve wasted so many moments! This quote is an eye opener. Thanks Lance. Hope you had a blessed Sunday with the fam.
.-= Natalia Burleson´s Last Fabulous Post ..I feel like I worked out! =-.
Wow, this really is synchronicity. I’m going to link over here from my post, as I love this quote. And especially coming from Steve Jobs, with everything he has been through recently, and the way he has thrown himself into everything he does in life. Having just gotten an iphone, I don’t think it’s too much to say that what he has created has helped transform our everyday lives, which just goes to show you the power of thinking this way.
.-= Lisa (mommymystic)´s Last Fabulous Post ..Using Death as an Adviser =-.
@Keith — Hi Keith. There are only so many tomorrows…so true. And, those tomorrows, we really don’t know how many there are. So awesome that your on this same page, and behind this idea that NOW is what we truly have. Me too. And Keith, thanks so much for the very nice things you’re saying — it’s all so appreciated.
@J.D. Meier — Yes, the thought of death is one that does make us grateful for what we have, at this moment. I know I’ve felt that upon hearing someone that I’ve known has died. It’ all becomes so real, and as we face our own future, it’s a stark realization that our time, however long here, is limited.
@Audra — Hey there Audra! Thanks for listening to the interview. Ah, so I WAS a “Beauty and the Beast” character before this, huh?? And now I’m trying to recall, have I heard your voice? I want to say I have, but I just can’t picture where. Maybe I’m doing the same thing, assigning you a voice? I wonder… Yes, we best meet so this can all be settled! And shoot, we’d have almost enough kids for a full baseball team between us!
@Natalia — Hi Natalia. The “stupid” stuff we argue about, hold onto, defend, worry about, etc — why, right. I know I do this too. It can be so petty, yet I’ll hang onto it — and for what? And what’s being lost because of that? Natalia, you bring up a great point — about how easy it can be to do this in our daily lives. I think I’m getting better at this, but I know it still comes up too. Here’s to letting go of this stuff, and really living! And our Sunday was a wonderful one, spent with family. I hope yours was too, and the new week is starting off well.
@Lisa — Lisa, I know! It’s so interesting how well this quote ties in to exactly what you wrote. Steve Jobs has been through much, and so he’s really living this quote out — although I’m sure it was said long before he became ill. And there’s something to that point. He has lived this quote, in sickness and in health. And there’s something about that which I find very moving. Lisa, I so appreciate you being here today, especially, given how closely this ties in with your beautiful writing.
Thanks for sharing both the image and the powerful words from Steve Jobs it does make you think is what I am doing my mission– now I can awnser yes after a year or so of searching. This is always so inspiring
thank you Lance for who you be
Namaste
Suzie
.-= Suzie Cheel´s Last Fabulous Post ..Have You Ever Wondered What Would Happen if…….? =-.
I like that quote by Steve Jobs, and I agree that remembering your mortality can help with knowing what’s important and to make decisions accordingly. The quote reminds me of a poem by Rumi called “Die Before You Die,” which means to drop the illusion of being a separate entity and unite with the divine. Where Jobs talks about and following your heart and intuition to know what you truly want to become, Rumi would say “You already have the precious mixture that will make you well. Use it.“
.-= Diane AZ´s Last Fabulous Post ..Zoo — Textures =-.
Great quote! How true! Take the time to do all things now, before it’s too late!
.-= Lisa’s Chaos´s Last Fabulous Post ..Benjamin & Betsy in Philly =-.
So Lance. Here is the scoop…I think it is a fine line. I have always (since I was super little) had this über-awareness that we get a limited time offer on being on this ultra cool planet. So sometimes I get overwhelmed by this awareness about death because I love it here on planet earth so much… If we constantly remind ourselves “Hey I might die any day.” and we really embrace that in our hearts –it can kind of feel crummy. So I think it is a fine line of reminding ourselves about death and deciding to be brave enough to simply choose life!
I do think that the ultimate point of the quote is to really deeply ground ourselves in gratitude and celebration for every day we are here living and do exactly what Jobs calls us to do, “LIVE”. It is about courage that it takes to wear our truest self on the inside AND outside of ourselves without holding back what is our greatest power.
.-= Katie West/The Levity Coach´s Last Fabulous Post ..Dear Church Lady, =-.
“Have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become.” ~ Indeed they do. That is exactly what I’m doing right now. Flow baby flow!
.-= Tom Volkar / Delightful Work´s Last Fabulous Post ..Ripening Bliss =-.
Hi Lance,
Yes you heard my voice when Dr. Rus interviewed me back in November about my book. : )
.-= Audra Krell´s Last Fabulous Post ..Back to School Unreadiness =-.
@Suzie — Hi Suzie. Right on, this really does make me think, too. Am I really doing what my heart yearns to do? Because now is the time…it’s all we have for sure. Thanks much, Suzie, and thanks for being here.
@Diane AZ — Hi Diane. Uniting with the divine…when I think of this, I think of going to that point deep in our souls, and fully connecting. And my belief is that this is a spot that is not someplace that’s just going to jump out and say “here I am, listen to me”. It’s up to us, individually, to explore the depths of our soul, in whatever manner works best for us. And there, yes, I think we’ll find that “precious mixture”. Diane, thanks so much for this thought, it ties in here so well.
@Lisa’s Chaos — That’s it, now is the time to do those things which really matter!
@Katie — So Katie! Yes, we live in such a cool place, this planet we refer to as earth. And to the thought of that “fine line” — that’s a great point. If we cross that line and see life as “an end that might be just around the corner”, we can become lethargic and complacent to the dreams inside of our soul…brought down by the thought of “why bother”. So, why bother then? Why bother to live the life that speaks directly from within our heart? As I know you know, it’s because that’s what truly makes us feel alive, filled with life. And in so doing, we’re creating something for the world that has meaning and value. It’s our legacy, being shared when we’re living from that spot within us that touches our soul. So, by fully realizing, today, that we will sometime in the future — die — if we can embrace that idea fully — that’s where this whole concept of doing what matters comes from. If we can see death as our real chance to live…fully live…in expression of our true selves…because in the end what else matters. Katie, I’ve mostly just reiterated what you’ve said, because I beleive fully in this (living it daily…well, that’s another story…and one I’m working on).
@Tom — Go get ‘em, Tom! I know you, and I know you’re not afraid to boldly live as you were meant to!
@Audra — That’s it, I knew it! So there you go, we’ve both heard each other’s voices now. The only thing left is to setup that baseball game…have a cookout, and enjoy the company of each others families!!
Great text and photo. I do this all the time, especially since I had breast cancer six years ago. Nothing like the presence of the Grim Reaper to put your life in perspective!
.-= Lynda Lehmann´s Last Fabulous Post ..Preening Seagull Dance: A Nature Video =-.
Hi there Lance — This was a part of a speech Steve Jobs gave many years ago, at a university graduation ceremony. I wrote a post about it myself, on August 28 last year, where I said this was a dangerous thing to do, and suggested it wasn’t surprising he has had many life-threatening health issues since then.
This is what you said at the time…
“Live like you are going to live tomorrow” – I love that! Well said by the Urban Panther.
This says to me that we live responsibly, while also living the life we want and desire.
So, I’m with you Robin – let’s not live like today might be our last. Let’s live like tomorrow will come. And let’s be present in the moment we’re at.
I think we need to learn to understand what is truly important — but Steve’s suggestion is not the way. His way is the path of sorrowful confusion.
.-= Robin´s Last Fabulous Post ..Birds Returning, Returning Birds =-.
@Lynda — Thanks so much for sharing your own personal experience here. Having been closer to this than most, I’m sure you can even more deeply appreciate how precious life is. What Steve Jobs touches upon is really a key to living NOW. This is our time, because the tomorrow’s of our life are not a given.
@Robin — Hi Robin. Thanks so much for commenting. And I know we may have slightly different opinions on life and death. And that’s okay, and really adds so much to how I think about all of this. Hopefully this doesn’t make me sound like a hypocrite (I certainly don’t mean to). I do believe that our day here will come. That said, I also believe in life — in an everlasting and eternal life, just one that isn’t here in this place and in the same form I’m in today. And I still love the statement you shared from the Urban Panther — “Live like you are going to live tomorrow”. I think I can do this while also having a healthy understanding of what Mr. Jobs is saying about realizing that our time here in the form we are, won’t last forever. And the key point for me in this is that this helps me to be more open to live like I’m going to live tomorrow. Just that today (and tomorrow) I choose to fully live, not just exist. That’s the important part of this quote that has deep meaning for me. And that we can all courageously follow our heart, so so good… So, Robin, thank you for having me revisit what this means. You add so much to the conversation, and to what life really means. And you always make me think deeper, which is also so good.
Now that’s just plain spooky how this ties into answers my current post on contemplating immortality.
Spooky but good how Mr. Jobs tells it.
I feel good now, thanks!
.-= Jannie Funster´s Last Fabulous Post ..Post-Vacation Contemplation =-.
Now that is perspective!! Reminds me of what we teach in SFT as one of the main components of a positive attitude — seeing the big picture. Little things that bother us seem to diminish when we can see the big picture like this. Thinking of death and knowing we will die and have only one chance to live will certainly do wonders in keeping things in perspective and keeping our priorities in order. It also reminds us to follow our heart as Mr. Jobs has well said. For we certainly don’t want to reach death and not have ever lived. Thank you Lance for yet another great quote. Thanks for helping to brighten the world.
.-= Jennifer´s Last Fabulous Post ..Success or Failure? =-.
I am so pleased I came over here today Lance.
I needed inspiration and you delivered 10 fold!
Beautiful photo and such a wise quote from Steve Jobs.
Bless you always
Peggy xxxx
.-= miruspeg´s Last Fabulous Post ..Enlightenment — Are We There Yet!! =-.
@Jannie — Spooky is how many references I’ve noticed to something similar all week. Including yours. Mr. Jobs has done a great job of summarizing just what makes life…and it’s good…
@Jennifer — The big picture. Yes, when we look at the big picture, the petty little stuff of our day to day, it’s really just that — little. And what matters is that which speaks from the depths of our hearts. When we can get there, where we speak from the love in our hearts AND look through a lens of seeing the big picture — what a great place to be. What you’re doing with the SFT program, Jennifer, is very special. And I know it comes from your heart…
@Miruspeg — It’s great to have you here today, Peggy. And I’m so glad you’ve found inspiration in these words…I have to.
Reminded me of something out of Jesus, Life Coach By Laurie Beth Jones:
“My friend Joe Mathews shared a poignant story with me recently. His best friend’s wife was diagnosed with terminal cancer and given a short time to live. Joe said he watched in awe as Dan and his wife, Christine, began to live each day with tremendous clarity and love. When it was nearly the end Joe finally got up the courage to ask Christine the question: “What does it feel like to live each day knowing you are dying?” She raised herself up on one arm, and then asked him, “Joe, what does it feel like to live each day pretending that you are not?“
.-= Jared | SpiritualZen.net´s Last Fabulous Post ..Wants vs. Needs and Spiritual Growth =-.
Jared,
That is such a powerful statement — at the end of what you shared. Indeed, we are all dying — it’s just we don’t know when. Really makes me stop and think — where do I fall in all of that. So much to think about there — thanks for sharing it!