M4L 2013 Lesson 3 Make your life count: Discover what really matters.

© Paul T. P. Wong

An Overview: Make your life count

• Review of last lesson – Know yourself • Only one life – make it worthwhile • 1 st lie – “There’s nothing I can do.” • 2 nd lie – “Life is about being happy.” • 3 rd lie – “Money can buy everything.” • Meaning makes life worth living.

How to make life worth living

• • • Everyone has only one life.

How do you get it right the first time?

Life is finite; life is short.

How do you make the most of it?

Everyone wants a better life.

How do you achieve it?

LIE #1 “THERE IS NOTHING I CAN DO.”

Yes, you can.

You have much to offer.

Bring out your best self.

1. Bring out your best qualities as a human being.

2. Bring out your best potential, whatever your occupation.

LIE #2 “LIFE IS ABOUT BEING HAPPY.”

The pursuit of self illusion can be fatal.

Hedonic Decadence

A Shallow Life

LIE #3 “MONEY CAN BUY EVERYTHING.”

Love of money is the root of all evil.

Bernard Ebbers & WorldCom

Bernie Madoff

Don’t wait until it is too late.

MEANING MAKES LIFE WORTH LIVING.

Live for a higher purpose.

( Self-Transcendence )

Be true to your calling.

( Authenticity )

The Principle of Meaningful Living

Focus on what really matters.

You will make life better for others.

Advantages of the Meaning Pursuit

• Avoids the pitfalls of self-centered pursuits.

• Self-transcendence & authenticity are the two pillars of a purpose-driven life.

• Happiness & flourishing will sneak in through the back door.

• Ability to transform adversities into opportunities for personal growth.