My friend Brian O’Malley lives a life of adventure. Today he is a speaker who shares his experiences as a world traveler, mountain climber and former police officer/fireman/EMT. It’s sobering to learn that he’s been with over 250 people in the final minute of their lives. An important insight, Brian says, is that none of those people’s last words were, “I wish I had spent more time in the office!” The last 60 seconds of life, is a time of stunningly clear perspective
Roger Mellott is a therapist and professional speaker who authored an excellent tape entitled “The Courage to See Clearly.” In it, he explains that when his father was given 60 days to live because of a serious illness, his dad’s perspective changed dramatically. He stopped doing things that he didn’t enjoy or feel were important and focused on making the most of what he thought were his final days.
Wouldn’t it be helpful, Roger suggests, if we could gain the same window on the world as someone with only 60 days left to live? Wouldn’t that enable us to live fuller, richer and more honest lives?
These lessons from Brian and Roger aren’t about dying, they’re about living.
Combining these two concepts of the last 60 seconds and the last 60 days creates what I call “60/60 Vision.” You can use this technique to see with clarity what is really important in your life.
In the final moments of your life, will you have regrets, or will you celebrate the fact that while you were alive you really lived? When it comes down to a few accomplishments that bring ultimate life significance, what will they be for you?
If you lived life with 60/60 vision:
Would your communication with others be more honest?
How would you approach your work?
Who would you spend more time with?
Who would you decide to spend less time with (or no time at all)?
What would you stop worrying about?
What would you strive to be remembered for?
What would you do each day to maximize enjoyment?
What contributions would you strive to make?
Then why not live your life that way now? Why wait for the final countdown? You and I may never get to know when we’re living our final sixty–days or seconds–and even if we do find out, it will be too late to change very much. The only time is the present.
Leadership Lesson: Psalm 90:12 says, “Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain heart of wisdom.” (NIV) To live fully and with significance, look at your life with 60/60 vision.
