Life is a precious journey, a tapestry woven with moments, memories, and milestones. As we traverse this path, the question often arises: how do we make the most of our time here?

How can we find peace in both our past and future when facing death?

To die well, you must live well.

This mantra echoes through the corridors of our existence, urging us to embrace each day with intention and purpose.

Here's a reflective guide on ten things you should consider doing before you die—a roadmap to living fully, leaving a meaningful legacy, and embracing death when it arrives.

1. Collect and Understand Your Health Records

Our health: the most precious thing we possess. Yet, do we truly grasp the information within our medical records? Behind every lab result lies a crucial decision - a staggering 70% of medical choices are based on these figures. Accumulating and truly comprehending your health data is vital. Picture a world where you're armed with the knowledge to make decisions about your future, based on hard facts. It's not just about clinging to life; it's about flourishing in it. They say we're not extending our lives, just prolonging our deaths. So, why not plan to fully live instead of waiting to die? Embrace existence until your final breath. Be aware of where you stand medically; don't simply wait for change, be the change.

Implementation Tips:

Real-world Example:

Sarah sat at her kitchen table, a sea of papers spread before her. The late afternoon sun slanted through the window, casting long shadows on the pages—her health records. Each line, each number, had a story to tell. She had always been diligent, perhaps a bit obsessive, about reviewing her medical history. But who could blame her? It was her life at stake.

As she traced her finger down the columns, a pattern began to emerge, subtle yet insistent. A particular lab result, seemingly innocuous in isolation, began to reveal the whispers of a deeper truth. A trend. A warning. Was it possible that something so small could signal the onset of cardiac issues? The thought was like a stone dropped into a still pond, sending ripples of anxiety through her.

She wondered, how many others overlooked these signs, dismissing them as mere statistics? Sarah felt a surge of frustration. Why hadn't anyone else caught this? But then, a moment of clarity. Perhaps this was her chance, her opportunity to take control.

With a mixture of urgency and determination, she gathered her findings and made an appointment with her medical provider. Her voice steady, she presented her case, her evidence, her fears. And then, the plan was set in motion. Lifestyle changes, diet adjustments, a renewed focus on well-being. Each step, a deliberate stride toward a healthier tomorrow.

But it wasn't just about the numbers. It was about the possibility of more days. Good days. Days filled with laughter, with love, with the simple joy of being alive. Sarah felt the weight lift slightly, a sense of peace replacing the earlier dread.

In the quiet moments, she pondered, was it fate that led her to this discovery? Or just a stroke of luck? Perhaps it was the goal of her diligent efforts into managing her own health along with healthcare providers. Either way, she had turned a potential crisis into a catalyst for change. As she closed her eyes that night, she knew she had added not just years to her life, but life to her years. And that was a victory worth celebrating.

2. Learn a New Skill or Hobby

The pursuit of knowledge is endless. Learning a new skill or hobby can rejuvenate your spirit and boost your creativity. What have you always wanted to try but never found the time for? Remember, you will die, but in one year you can get pretty dang good at most any skill or hobby. Use the years wisely, or they will use you.

Implementation Tips:

Real-world Example:

David never thought he'd find himself at 50, cradling a guitar like a lifeline. Was this the same man who once buried himself in spreadsheets and conference calls? The guitar strings under his fingers felt foreign yet familiar, like a long-lost friend. Each chord struck a chord within, resonating with a part of his soul he never knew existed. It was as if he had stumbled upon a secret garden, hidden beneath the layers of his corporate persona.

The melodies he created were more than notes; they were whispers of freedom, an escape hatch from the monotony of boardroom battles. The strum of strings became his sanctuary, a therapeutic balm for a life spent chasing deadlines and dreams that seemed perpetually out of reach. This wooden instrument was unravelling the tension of decades of work.

When David learned he was going to be a grandfather at 63, a new melody began to play within him. A grandchild on the way—a chance to pass on something more meaningful than financial security or career advice. He bought a mini guitar almost instinctively, dreaming of tiny fingers dancing over strings, just like his.

From the moment she was two, that little girl held a guitar, her eyes wide with curiosity. Watching her pluck at the strings, David felt a joy he could never quantify in corporate terms. The music was no longer just an escape; it became a bridge, a vibrant connection to a future he could nurture and shape.

As he watched her grow, her laughter blending with the sweet notes of their duets, he realized life had gifted him a second chance—a chance to embrace its colors with an intensity he’d once overlooked. Every strum, every chord was a brushstroke on the canvas of his life, painting it anew. Isn’t it funny how the simplest things can make the most profound impact?

3. Craft a Living Will and Medical Power of Attorney

Ever pondered who'd be at the helm if you weren't able to navigate your own health decisions? It's a chilling thought, right? Over half the population hasn't cracked open the can of worms that is living wills or medical power of attorney. These documents, as uncomfortable as they may be, serve as a shield, safeguarding your wishes and granting your loved ones a semblance of peace amid the storm. Protecting yourself and your loved ones is the goal, having these documents is step one.

Implementation Tips:

Real-world Example:

John stood at the threshold of adventure, the crisp morning air biting at his cheeks, whispering promises of the unknown. It was the kind of day that seemed to hum with possibility, the sky a brilliant canvas of blues and whites, urging him forward. But before he could lose himself in the thrill of the journey, there was one thing he needed to settle—a living will.

Why had he dragged his feet on this for so long? Was it the fear of confronting his own mortality, or was it the reluctance to put such gravity into words? Whatever it was, the decision had been made. He had seen too many stories of families torn apart by uncertainty, by the weight of choices unspoken. That wouldn't be his legacy. Not John’s.

As he scribbled his signature, a sense of relief washed over him. It was like shedding an invisible shroud, one he hadn’t realized he was wearing. His family, his beloved anchors, would be spared the burden of guessing his wishes. In those moments, he understood that true freedom wasn’t just the absence of constraints, but also the presence of clarity.

He packed his bag with a sense of urgency, every item a testament to his readiness for this year-long trek. Each click of the buckle, each zip of the pocket, was a promise he made to himself. To live fearlessly, to embrace the world without reservation.

But there was a moment of pause, a quiet interlude in his bustling thoughts. Could he really leave it all behind, the comfort, the predictability? A rhetorical question at best. Of course, he could. He must. His heart thrummed with the excitement of the road ahead, the adventures untold.

John took one last look at the familiar landscape of his life, the faces he cherished, the places he called home. And then, with a smile that spoke of liberation and love, he turned away, stepping boldly into the horizon. His spirit soared, unburdened and free—ready to explore, ready to live.

4. Build and Maintain Meaningful Relationships

As the day comes to a close, we often find ourselves reflecting on the connections we cherish. It is in these quiet moments that we realize how much we need the presence of others in our lives—the faces that bring us comfort, the hands we instinctively reach for when times are tough. Our hearts, much like a garden, flourish with the nurturing care of those we hold dear.

Life's journey is a quilt stitched together with both joy and sorrow, and it is the support and guidance of our loved ones that help us navigate the complexities of our experience. On good days, their laughter and shared joy amplify our happiness, while on the challenging days, their strength and understanding provide a much-needed anchor.

These bonds we create and nurture are not merely connections; they are the true treasures we discover along our path. They remind us that we are never truly alone, that we can lean on each other through the highs and lows. The journey of life is filled with ups and downs, but it is the love and support we share that give us the courage to face whatever comes our way. Ultimately, it is these relationships that enrich our lives and transform our experiences, making every moment meaningful and worthwhile.

Implementation Tips:

Real-world Example:

Lucy sat in the corner of the bustling café, her fingers tracing the rim of her coffee mug as laughter echoed around her. How had a decade passed since she last saw them? Time seemed to flicker like a faulty light bulb, casting shadows on memories she thought had faded. Yet, here they were, her college friends, familiar faces with new stories etched into their smiles.

Reconnecting with them was like finding a forgotten photograph—faded, yet precious. They picked up right where they left off, as though the years between had merely been a brief pause in a never-ending conversation. Could they still be the same people she once knew? The realization washed over her, a tide of joy mingled with a tinge of nostalgia.

Their gatherings became a sanctuary, a respite from the tumultuous storm of life's challenges. In their company, Lucy found solace, their words a balm for her weary soul. She couldn’t remember the last time she felt so understood. Their support wrapped around her like an old, cherished blanket, comforting in its familiarity and warmth.

But new questions lingered in her mind. How had she let so much time slip by without them? The regret was a subtle whisper, a reminder of opportunities missed. Yet, in the flicker of candlelight and clinking glasses, she realized it was never too late to rekindle what once was.

Each meeting was a mixture of shared dreams and burdens, their laughter a chorus against the silence of her solitary struggles. Did they feel it too? This unspoken bond, this silent understanding that life, with all its messiness, was a journey best traveled together.

Lucy knew these moments, these precious reconnections, were not just about reliving the past but building a future together. A future where friendship, like an ever-burning flame, illuminated the darkest paths and warmed the coldest nights..

5. Engage in Regular Physical Activity

Have you ever felt the weight of the world on your shoulders, only to find that a brisk walk lightens the load? Physical health and mental wellbeing are intertwined, like branches of the same tree. Without one, the other struggles to thrive.

Imagine a morning where the sun peeks through your curtains, urging you to rise and stretch. It’s not just about burning calories or fitting into old jeans. It’s about feeling alive, reminding you that you're here, now. The freedom and privilege of movement, the whisper of vitality coursing through you.

We often think of exercise as a chore, a box to tick off. But it’s more than that. What if it’s a gift you give yourself—a promise of longevity, a commitment to quality of life? Picture yourself not as a relentless gym rat but as a slow sidewalk stepper, appreciating every step. Or perhaps a swim in place daydreaming treader, where the water cradles your thoughts. Life is just a bit brighter when activity mixes with your personal desires and how you like to move.

We often overlook the simple joy of stretching our arms wide, embracing the space around us. It’s vital, this ability to move freely is a gift and it is sometimes taken away without warning. Choose to move, to breathe deeply, to listen to what your body whispers in those quiet moments. Isn’t it time to care for this vessel that carries you through life?

In the end, it’s not just about the physical; it’s about creating a harmony within. So, ask yourself: What small step can you take today to nurture this connection? Because every movement counts, and every choice matters.

Implementation Tips:

Real-world Example:

Tom never imagined that a simple morning walk, begrudgingly initiated out of obligation, would turn into an unexpected journey of self-discovery and transformation. Each day, he set out with a sense of duty rather than desire, grumbling internally about the necessity of exercise. The trees lining his path, with their unruly branches ignored by the HOA, seemed to mirror his own tangled emotions. Was it the trees that needed trimming, or was it something deeper within himself?

On a angry whim, Tom brought tree clippers the next day. With each snip, he felt a strange satisfaction, a release. Twenty-seven trees later, the landscape looked different, and so did Tom's perspective. Had he changed the trees, or had the trees changed him?

The flowers, neglected and choked by weeds, beckoned him next. He found himself kneeling in the dirt, fingers entwining with roots, pulling away the unwanted to reveal the beauty beneath. Clearing these weeds was like clearing his own mind.

As the days turned into weeks, the hedge that once loomed like a dormant volcano was transformed into a gently curving pathway, inviting and serene. Tom's hands, once idle, now crafted spaces of peace and beauty. The garden, like his spirit, was blooming. He was sure this wasn’t allowed, but nobody had stopped him. It also looked better than it had in years.

Soon, he was purchasing seasonal flowers, his heart lifting with each new bloom. He caught himself wondering if anyone would notice a new gazebo, a testament to his newfound passion. But did it matter if they did? The garden was for him, a reflection of his journey from reluctant walker to passionate gardener. In tending to the earth, he had learned to tend to himself. And isn't that what transformation is all about?.

6. Plan to die

The day you die—what does it look like? It's not a question we often dwell on, yet it tugs at the corners of our minds.

Implementation Tips:

Real-world Example:

A room warmed by the soft crackle of a fireplace, its flames dancing shadows across the walls. There you are, wrapped in worn but comforting blankets, their fabric carrying the scent of countless yesterdays.

7. Embrace a touch of chaos along with a hint of neurosis.

Life brings chaos with it. It’s fairly unavoidable. Yet, isn't it the chaos that sometimes shapes our most cherished memories? The kids don’t want to go to school. Fine, let it be chaotic. Maybe they'll bake cookies and make a mess, but who doesn’t need a cookie sometimes? Imagine the warm, gooey chocolate chips melting away your worries. Perhaps your son will help you beat that level in Zelda you can't pass—since he’s home anyway. Isn't it funny how the messiest days can lead to the sweetest victories?

Let chaos reign and embrace the time.

When those moments pass, allow yourself to be a little neurotic. Shred those papers, clean the baseboards. Do these actions reflect your need for control, or are they simply a way to find peace amidst the disorder? Get your health records; yes, it's that important I will keep bringing it up. Knowledge is power! Get your parents' records, too. Know what’s going on in your body and help others to know theirs. Prepare for the worst, then be happily surprised when it was only almost the worst.

In the swirl of chaos, do we find clarity? In the storm, can we create calm? Maybe it's the balance between the two that defines us. Perhaps it's not about avoiding chaos but learning to dance with it. After all, isn't life just a beautiful, chaotic dance?

Implementation Tips:

Real-world Example:

Mark sat in the dim glow of his living room, the day’s stress clinging to him like a stubborn shadow. The movie had ended, but its echo lingered—a simple yet profound reminder: we’re just a speck of nothing on a rock in space. Mark thought it was supposed to be depressing, but he felt a little free.

He’d found himself spiraling recently, drowning in the chaos of deadlines and demands that seemed to never end. Yet, in this moment of introspection, he began to see things differently. Could mindfulness really be the anchor he needed?

Breathing in deeply, Mark felt the weight on his shoulders begin to lift. The practice of being present, of truly engaging with each fleeting moment, was no longer just an abstract concept. It was tangible, a lifeline pulling him back to shore.

He noticed how his concentration improved, how the whirlpool of anxiety that once gripped him began to wane. Was it possible that something so simple could bring about such profound change?

Every day, he carved out time to sit in silence, letting thoughts drift by like clouds. The urgency of his past turmoil faded, replaced by a newfound balance. Life, he realized, didn't have to be a relentless climb up a mountain. Sometimes, you just need to stop and take in the view.

Mark had learned that while we might just be a rock in space, the stories we choose to live—and how we choose to live them—are entirely up to us. Isn't that a comforting thought?

8. Document Your Life Story

As you pause to reflect on the chapters of your life, a mosaic of memories emerges. Each fragment—some vibrant, others muted—tells a story that only you can narrate. Have you ever considered the power in your experiences? The lessons you’ve learned, the hurdles you’ve overcome, they are fibers in the fabric of your existence.

Picture this: the first time you felt truly seen. Was it a fleeting moment, or did it linger, nourishing your soul? Or recall the times when the weight of the world seemed unbearable, yet somehow, you found the strength to rise again. What drove you? Was it hope, love, or sheer determination?

These stories, your stories, are not just personal relics. They are beacons for others who may walk similar paths. Imagine the reassurance a future reader might feel, knowing they are not alone in their struggles. That is worth documenting.

Think about the clarity that comes from writing it all down. The introspection that transforms confusion into understanding. Your frustrations become stepping stones, your triumphs, guiding stars. There is a specific type of beauty in this raw authenticity.

And as you pen these truths, remember, you’re not just chronicling events, you’re weaving a legacy. A legacy that whispers to those yet to come: "You are not alone. I’ve walked this road, and so can you." Isn’t it time to share your journey?

Implementation Tips:

Real-world Example:

Eleanor’s memoir is more than just a collection of stories; it’s a tapestry woven with threads of adventure, lessons learned, and the bittersweet dance of tragedy and triumph. Can a single book truly capture the essence of a life so full? She often wondered this herself. Yet, each page turned was a whisper of her journey, inviting her readers to walk alongside her through the echoes of time.

Imagine a life where every chapter holds a new adventure. Eleanor's stories leap from the pages with vivid imagery—lush jungles, bustling cityscapes, quiet moments by the sea. Have you ever felt the thrill of the unknown? The pages reveal Eleanor’s heart racing at the edge of a cliff not just in reality, but in decisions that defined her path. How could she have known that these moments would not only shape her but also inspire generations after her?

Yet, the memoir is not all vibrant hues. There are shadows, too—tragedies that left marks. She speaks of heartbreaks, those silent thieves of joy. How does one find the strength to rise after falling? Eleanor did, time and again. Her words echo with resilience, a testament to the human spirit's unyielding capacity to heal. There is a certain comfort in knowing that even in the depths of sorrow, we can find our way back to light.

For her grandchildren, Eleanor’s memoir isn’t just history; it’s a guidebook filled with lessons learned and wisdom imparted. How often do we get to see the world through the eyes of someone who has lived so richly? Her triumphs, big and small, are victories shared with them. In reading her story, they find courage to face their own long after she is gone.

Eleanor’s memoir stands as a cherished family heirloom, a beacon of inspiration. It asks questions that linger in the mind, urging us to reflect on our own lives. Are we living fully, embracing both the highs and the lows? Her journey is a reminder that life, in all its complexity, is a story worth telling. And isn't that the greatest adventure of all?

9. Rest

Rest well, rest often, rest in the way that rejuvenates you. Honor yourself in your rest. Don’t rest the way others do, or the way others expect you to. Keep guilt out of it. You need time, lots and lots of time. Probably 2-10x more than you’re taking for rest. You are not lazy, you are not ignoring others, you are simply putting fuel in the tank. If you can’t make every event, good. You shouldn’t. Be at the ones that matter most and be fully present.

Implementation Tips:

Real-world Example:

Elliot the caterpillar had a simple desire: to knit. His best friend and work partner, Maurice, preferred to unwind by playing leaf smash. Each day, Elliot finished his shift at the deli counter by 3 PM, and Maurice was eager to dive into their leaf smash game. Elliot loved seeing his friend’s joy, knowing that leaf smash required two or more players.

Yet, deep down, Elliot longed for the yarn waiting in his closet. While they played, Maurice remained blissfully unaware of Elliot’s lack of enthusiasm, thinking his friend was wonderful! As evening approached, they would munch on their smashed leaves before heading home. Elliot needed more sleep to wake up refreshed, so he only had time to clean up, prepare his clothes for the next day, and gently pat his yarn before bed as he whispered, “Tomorrow.”

As the days stretched on and grew more exhausting, Elliot would always follow Maurice outside, eventually agreeing to play leaf smash. Maurice assured him that moving around would lift his spirits! However, Elliot didn’t feel any better. Maurice began to feel resentful toward Elliot's lack of energy in their game. Instead of smashing leaves with zeal, Elliot's moves were slow and deliberate, reminiscent of a lava flow. Maurice craved the excitement of intense leaf smashing from his friend, and it frustrated him to see Elliot losing interest.

Three weeks later, Elliot had yet to knit a single mitten, and the time for his metamorphosis was approaching. He dreamed that once he transformed, he would finally have the chance to knit! But Maurice had grown distant; if Elliot was unwilling to engage in leaf smash, then Maurice felt he didn’t want a friend like that. As Elliot felt increasingly fatigued and sluggish in the days leading up to his metamorphosis, he slept longer, eventually only sleeping. Soon, he became a cocoon resting on a bed of unwoven yarn.

Twelve days later, Elliot emerged from his cocoon as a stunning butterfly! He turned eagerly to his yarn, exclaiming, “Finally!” However, as he reached for his needles, a wave of guilt washed over him thinking of Maurice. Perhaps he should have expressed his needs to avoid the rift in their friendship. Maybe Maurice felt abandoned when Elliot slowly withdrew without explanation.

All day long, Elliot knitted, creating a beautiful sweater. Now, he felt ready to soar for the first time. Flitting and fluttering through the air like a... butterfly, he suddenly collided wing-first with Maurice!

Thrilled to see his friend, Elliot hesitated, recalling the pain of the past. “Oh, hi Maurice, nice wings,” he said cautiously.

Maurice grimaced, replying, “Yeah, I guess. I’d rather be on the ground where it’s warmer. I can’t smash leaves well in the trees. Turns out I don’t like the chill.”

Elliot nodded, wanting to escape the awkward conversation, when suddenly the solution struck him. “WAIT! Maurice, come with me!”

Maurice donned the woolen sweater, and a spark of excitement returned to his eyes. “I can play leaf smash in any tree now! Hey Elliot, do you think you could knit sweaters and mittens for my leaf smash team?”

Elliot's wings faltered for a moment as he paused dramatically. “Uh, yes, Maurice, I could.”

And so he did, knitting and warming his friends, which in turn warmed his own heart.

10. Reflect on Memento Mori: The Reminder of Mortality

Have you ever paused to consider the ticking clock of your own life? It’s a sobering thought, isn’t it? Memento Mori—the ancient reminder that we all will die—serves as a powerful catalyst, urging us to live with intention. But how exactly does this acknowledgment of mortality mold our actions and priorities?

Imagine standing at the edge of a vast ocean, the waves crashing relentlessly against the shore. Each wave represents a moment passing, a heartbeat echoed in time.

When we acknowledge that our time is finite, it compels us to dive into those waves rather than merely watch from the sand. Do we dare to let the uncertainty of tomorrow fuel our dreams today?

In this realization, there's a shift. Mundane routines become vibrant opportunities for growth. Conversations transform from shallow exchanges to deep connections. We start to ask ourselves: What truly matters? Is it the relentless pursuit of success, or is it the quiet moments of joy we often overlook?

Acknowledging our mortality strips away pretenses. It invites us to embrace vulnerability, to love fiercely, and to pursue passions without hesitation. We begin to prioritize experiences over possessions, relationships over accolades. Isn’t it curious how the prospect of an end makes the present so much more precious?

Sometimes, it feels like a race against time. Yet, in that urgency, there’s clarity—a poignant reminder to live a life that aligns with our most authentic selves. To laugh often, to forgive swiftly, and to savor every fleeting moment as if it were our last.

So, how will you choose to live, knowing that life is but a fragile, beautiful journey that awaits no one?

Implementation Tips:

Real-world Example:

Michael's journey began in the shadow of illness, a stark reminder of life's fragility. Have you ever felt the weight of your own mortality pressing in, urging you to choose what really matters? That was Michael's reality.

Emerging from the depths of his illness, he embraced Memento Mori with both hands, the Latin phrase whispering in his ear, "Remember you will die." But rather than a call to despair, it was a catalyst for change. It was as if he had been given new eyes, seeing the world not in the somber shades of inevitability but in the vibrant hues of opportunity.

He asked himself, what if every moment mattered? What if he pursued the things that truly set his heart ablaze? With this newfound perspective, Michael turned towards his passions, those neglected flames that flickered faintly during his darkest days.

He picked up a violin, letting the strings speak the language of his soul. The music wasn't perfect, but it was honest. Next, he painted with colors that reflected his inner world, each stroke a testament to his renewed vitality. Have you ever lost yourself in something so completely, only to find yourself anew?

Through these pursuits, Michael found a fulfillment that had eluded him for so long. The joy wasn't just in the creation or the act itself; it was in the simple, profound realization that he was living—truly living—each day. His journey teaches us that in the face of life's brevity, we must ask ourselves: Are we living in alignment with our deepest passions, or merely existing in the shadow of what could be?

In the end, Michael's story isn't just his own. It’s a mirror reflecting our own choices, our own potential for transformation. Remember, you will die. What will you embrace in the fleeting moments you're given?

Conclusion

Life’s ephemeral beauty can often leave us breathless, standing on the precipice of awe and anxiety. As we navigate our personal journeys, we’re faced with the daunting task of seizing each moment—living fully and fearlessly. But how do we harness this fleeting gift? How do we etch our presence into the tapestry of time, ensuring that our legacy resonates with love and wisdom?

Reflect for a moment: What actions will you take today to shape a life worth remembering? Imagine ten guiding lights, each a beacon illuminating your path to fulfillment. Are you ready to follow their glow?

Contemplate Mortality

Embrace the truth of death. It’s not a grim perspective; rather, it’s an inspiring one. Acknowledging death as the final chapter doesn’t hasten its arrival.

Living your life with the consciousness of death doesn’t accelerate the pace at which it approaches.

Mastering the art of living well demands we first face the inevitability of death.

What steps will you take today? Let these strategies guide you, crafting a life that echoes beyond your years, filled with moments that were truly lived.

Both life and death can be met with readiness, knowledge, open hearts, and a spirit of acceptance.

You will face death, but my dear, first you will truly live.