Think of yourself as dead. You have lived your life. Now, take what's left and live it properly

Think of yourself as dead. You have lived your life. Now, take what's left and live it properly

Marcus Aurelius, the Roman Emperor and Stoic philosopher, is known for his profound insights on life, death, and the importance of living a virtuous life. One of his most famous quotes is, “Think of yourself as dead. You have lived your life. Now, take what's left and live it properly.” This quote encapsulates the Stoic philosophy of living in the present moment, accepting the inevitability of death, and striving to live a life of virtue and purpose.

When Marcus Aurelius urges us to think of ourselves as dead, he is not advocating for a morbid or nihilistic outlook on life. Instead, he is encouraging us to contemplate our mortality and the finite nature of our existence. By acknowledging our own mortality, we are reminded of the preciousness of life and the importance of making the most of the time we have.

The second part of the quote, “Now, take what's left and live it properly,” serves as a call to action. Marcus Aurelius is reminding us that we have the power to shape our own destinies and live our lives in accordance with our values and principles. Instead of dwelling on the past or worrying about the future, we should focus on the present moment and strive to live with integrity, courage, and wisdom.