What is “Memento Mori”? (and why it’s the key to living fully)

Have you ever stumbled upon the phrase “Memento Mori” and wondered what it truly means?

At first glance, it might seem like a morbid reminder of our inevitable end, but there’s so much more depth to it. “Memento Mori” translates to “Remember that you will die,” a concept rooted in ancient philosophy, particularly Stoicism.

But far from being a grim reflection, it’s actually a powerful tool for living life to the fullest. By keeping our mortality in mind, we can transform our daily existence, shifting our focus to what truly matters and cutting through the noise of trivial concerns.

Here’s how “Memento Mori” can be the key to living fully and meaningfully.

1) It encourages us to value time in a new way

As Marcus Aurelius wisely noted, “We ought to take into account not only the fact that day by day life is being spent and a small balance remaining.” (The Meditations of the Emperor Marcus Antoninus, 1944)

Reflecting on this quote, I realized how much time I wasted on trivial matters, procrastination, and distractions. “Memento Mori” became a catalyst for change, pushing me to prioritize my time and focus on what truly matters. It’s about recognizing that time is our most valuable resource, one that we cannot replenish.

For me, this newfound awareness has been a productivity booster. By appreciating the limited time I have, I became more intentional with my actions. I started setting clear goals, cutting down on activities that don’t contribute to my well-being or growth, and making a conscious effort to spend time with loved ones and pursue meaningful activities.

Valuing time also means making the most of every opportunity. Instead of delaying important tasks or waiting for the “perfect” moment, I learned to seize the present. Procrastination became less appealing when viewed through the lens of “Memento Mori.” It encouraged me to act now, rather than put off things for an uncertain future.

In essence, “Memento Mori” shifted my mindset from seeing time as an abundant resource to understanding its true scarcity. This shift not only increased my productivity but also enriched my life with more purposeful and fulfilling experiences. It’s a reminder that every moment counts, urging us to live with greater focus and intention.

2) It makes it easier to let go of trivial concerns

One of the most liberating aspects of “Memento Mori” is its power to help us let go of trivial concerns. When we remember that our time is limited, it becomes easier to prioritize what truly matters and to release the petty worries and distractions that consume so much of our mental energy.

I mean, how often do we allow minor inconveniences or the opinions of others to disrupt our peace of mind?

“Memento Mori” provides a fresh perspective, helping us to see that many of these concerns are insignificant in the grand scheme of things.

..or at least it has for me.

By letting go of trivial concerns, I found that my anxiety and stress levels decreased significantly. I stopped worrying about things beyond my control and started directing my energy toward actions and thoughts that genuinely mattered. This shift not only brought more peace into my life but also allowed me to approach challenges with a clearer and more composed mind.

Moreover, this mindset helped me to cultivate a more positive outlook. When I no longer dwelled on minor setbacks or criticisms, I could better appreciate the good in my life and the opportunities that each day presented.