If you had 12 months to live, what would become most important to you? I asked myself this question last summer as my husband and I were preparing for our daughter’s wedding. Sound a bit morbid? Not really, since I plan to live a long life, but it did make me pause and reflect on what’s most essential, significant, and meaningful. This inquiry was a practice around priorities, energy, and purpose. I chose 12 months because it was enough time to do stuff and limited enough to get really clear.
Here’s my list of what would become most important:
- Be Present for Life’s Small and Precious Moments:
Family dinners, game night, weddings (both family and friends), funerals, client successes and learnings. - Travel:
Go to Africa and New Zealand. Then visit my kids and a few besties scattered across the U.S. - Outdoor Time:
Spend more time in nature and revel in its beauty. - Express Feelings:
Tell people I love them – daily. - Professional Work:
Powerfully coach interesting, mission-driven leaders.
Reframed, I synthesized my intentions into a daily (and Daly, Ha!) reminder to live and to love.
- Be present
- Live boldly through extraordinary experiences
- Seek awe
- Love big and let the little stuff go (at the end, the petty and minor failings of humanity don’t matter)
- Live with purpose
Thinking about “my final months” has helped me manage my energy, deciding what’s really important. It’s helped me set daily intentions, getting clear on how I want to show up. I’ve planned some exciting adventures filled with learning, experiences, and growth. It’s informed my business priorities for the final third of my life, expanding my purpose, serving powerfully, and connecting in authentic and meaningful ways. Again, not being morbid, but being more clear, joyful, and operating with purpose! When I get stuck in the “busy” or negative, I draw myself back to “12 months.” This makes decisions a little easier, risks feel a little edgier, and most importantly, I’m having fun!
What if YOU only had 12 months to live?
What would change?
What would remain the same?
What risks would you take?
How might your priorities shift?
What clarity would you find?
Are you brave enough to honestly explore your “12 months to live?” How might this exercise bring you clarity? If you’re seeking a trusted advisor or thought partner to navigate the process, let’s talk.