“Not to live as if you had endless years ahead of you. Death overshadows you. While you’re alive and able – be good.” – Marcus Aurelius
In 1912, Theodore Roosevelt failed to win a third term as President of the United States. Term limits were not introduced until 1947.
After his defeat from December 1913 to April 1914, Roosevelt took off for Brazil to accompany a famous Brazilian explorer, Cândido Rondon, on his trek of the River of Doubt. During his adventures in the Amazon, Roosevelt carried a copy of Marcus Aurelius’ Meditations.
Roosevelt, like many readers of the emperor’s personal journal, learned more about self-discipline, personal ethics, humility, and inner strength from one of the most powerful men in the Roman empire. Roosevelt made an impression on the exploration. He nearly died, having received a wound on his leg that had become infected. Everyone on the expedition, except Colonel Rondon, was either sick, injured, or both. It is said that Theodore passed away several years later, still suffering from the effects of that grueling expedition. The Brazilian river is now called Roosevelt River.
Marcus Aurelius was keenly aware of his mortality:
“In short, know this: Human lives are brief and trivial.”
He understood the value of remaining calm. He focused on maintaining control of his inner self, no matter the turmoil around him. Instead of letting events become a crutch, he turned them to his advantage.
“It’s unfortunate that this has happened…
No. It’s fortunate that this has happened and I’ve remained unharmed by it-not shattered by the present or frightened of the future. It could have happened to anyone. But not everyone could have remained unharmed by it.” – Marcus Aurelius
The world around us changes quickly. Moreso today than 100 years ago, or even 2,000 years ago. Change is happening right now, for better or worse is up to you and your perspective.
However, humans have not changed as much as you think. We still must be willing to adapt, to survive, to find new ways to thrive – at work and at home.
“Constant awareness that everything is born from change. The knowledge that there is nothing nature loves more than to alter what exists and make new things like it.” -Marcus Aurelius
Today, we are drowning in data. We have unlimited optionality and an abundance of choices. That does not necessarily mean we are more capable.
While everything has changed, not much has changed since Marcus’ time:
“If you seek tranquility, do less.”
Enjoying a warm cup of coffee as the sun rises. Sitting quietly on a beach. Going for a mid afternoon run. Engaging in deep, meaningful work. Building real relationships with real people. Throwing the ball with your kids. Walking the dog.
Work and life are not distinct. Work is life, and life is work.
Are you spending your life doing work that you enjoy?
Are you spending your work living a life that you enjoy?
Marcus Aurelius knew the importance of priorities. What are the few things in your life that matter? What are the few things in your work that matter? Only you can find your answer.
“Because most of what we say and do is not essential. If you can eliminate it, you’ll have more time, and more tranquility. Ask yourself at every moment, ‘Is this necessary?’” – Marcus Aurelius
In the end, it is up to us to work and live while death continues to overshadow us.
Adventure, challenge, and change are just a few constants that we should seek both at work and at home.
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