Start With The End In Mind: Why Writing Your Obituary Is Powerful

"To begin with the end in mind means to start with a clear understanding of your destination. It means to know where you're going so that you better understand where you are now and so that the steps you take are always in the right direction." - Stepheh R. Covey, “The 7 Habits Of Highly Effective People.”

Begin With The End In Mind

The concept of "beginning with the end in mind" is about envisioning the desired outcome and then working backward to determine the steps needed to reach that outcome. It involves identifying your ultimate goal and then developing a plan. One way to apply this concept is by writing an obituary.

An obituary is a written tribute to someone who has passed away. It typically includes a brief biography of the person's life, accomplishments, and impact on others. Writing an obituary for yourself may seem morbid, but clarifying your life's purpose and priorities can be powerful.

When you start with the end in mind and imagine what you want people to say about you after you're gone, you can understand what truly matters to you. You might ask yourself, "What do I want to be remembered for?" or "What impact do I want on the world?" By thinking deeply about these questions, you can clarify your values and priorities, which can help guide your current decisions and actions.

Writing an obituary also allows you to reflect on your life's accomplishments and the legacy you want to leave behind. By thinking about the impact you want to have on others, you can identify areas where you want to focus your time and energy. This can help you prioritize your goals and make decisions that align with your values.

Furthermore, writing an obituary can be a therapeutic exercise that helps you understand your mortality. It can be challenging to confront the reality of our mortality, but by doing so, we can live more fully in the present and appreciate our time. Writing an obituary can also be a way to express gratitude for the people and experiences that have shaped our lives.

In conclusion, writing an obituary can clarify and help you live a more purposeful life. You can clarify your values and priorities by beginning with the end in mind and envisioning the legacy you want to leave behind. This exercise can help you make decisions that align with your goals and live a more fulfilling life.