Why did I drop the opportunity to study law? Because life is short. I wanted to play in a band and pursue music. I wanted to write songs and read and write novels. I wanted to do things that make me feel more alive.

Why did I resign from my first writing job? Because I was happy no more. I wanted to write, but not about things I’m not interested in. I wanted to write topics that matter to me. And yes, because life is short.

Why did I ignore people who hate me? Because I didn’t want to feed negativity. I wanted to be surrounded by people who love and trust me. I wanted to feel being loved and cared for. I wanted positivity to dominate. And yes, because life is short.

If only people realize their lives are impermanent and they will die soon, maybe they would do things differently. Or maybe, they would think and feel differently. Or maybe, they would stop complaining and start doing things that really matter to them.

Whenever I think that anytime I may die, for some reason, all the things I hate equate to nothing. My dreams become my priorities. And all the things I value engulf my thoughts.

I don’t know about you, but this belief has worked for me in many ways. It keeps me grounded and motivated to pursue the things I love.

Life is too short. Every second counts.

So let’s make this life worth living. Forgive. Love. Smile more. Help people. Stop doing things you hate. See new places. Follow your heart.

And if you’re not happy with your life right now, figure out what makes you unhappy, then remove it from your life (gradually or drastically, whatever works for you).

Life is short and the older you get, the more you feel it. Indeed, the shorter it is. People lose their capacity to walk, run, travel, think, and experience life. I realise how important it is to use the time I have. — Viggo Mortensen