Life can get so busy. Between work, family, and all our daily responsibilities, it’s easy to lose perspective. The minutiae of each day blur together into an endless cycle of tasks and to-do lists. But there’s more to life than checking off boxes. There are simple yet profound joys we often overlook in the hustle and bustle. I’ve created a list to remind myself what really matters. Things like watching the sunset, spending time with loved ones, and appreciating the small moments of beauty all around us each day.
We all need this occasional reality check—a chance to zoom out and see the bigger picture. What we prioritize reflects what we value. So let’s take a step back and consider what makes life meaningful. Join me as I share my personal list of what’s most important. By pausing to appreciate the richness in our lives, we can regain clarity and perspective.
Table of Contents
What is More Important in Life?
When it comes to the importance in life there are so many things we want. Such as relationships, personal growth, and fulfillment. Healthy relationships, for instance, are widely recognized as a cornerstone of a happy life, providing emotional support and a sense of belonging. Passion and personal development are also crucial, as they drive individuals to pursue their goals and aspirations, leading to a sense of accomplishment and self-actualization. Ultimately, the importance of various aspects of life may differ from person to person, but the pursuit of happiness, health, and meaningful connections tends to be universal.
Health Is More Important Than Wealth
Take Care of Your Body. Our health is the foundation for everything we do in life. Without good health, we can’t fully experience or enjoy all the wonderful things around us. That’s why it’s so important to make our health a top priority.
Eating nutritious foods, exercising regularly, managing stress, limiting unhealthy habits, and getting enough sleep are all essential for optimal health and wellbeing. When we take good care of our physical and mental health, we have more energy and vitality to pursue our dreams and make a positive difference in the world.
Cherish each moment. Life is short, so we must make the most of each moment. Our time on this planet is precious and fleeting. Rather than always chasing after more money or material possessions, learn to slow down and appreciate the simple pleasures in life: spending time with loved ones, enjoying hobbies, getting outside in nature, creating art, listening to music, reading, meditating, and acts of service or kindness. Find ways each day to nourish your soul.
When your basic needs are met, accumulating more wealth or climbing the corporate ladder will not necessarily make you happier. What matters most is living a life full of meaning, purpose and strong, loving relationships. Our health and the moments we share with others are far more valuable than any amount of money.
Relationships Matter More Than Possessions
Life moves fast. As the pace of society accelerates, it’s easy to lose sight of what really matters. We get caught up chasing promotions, buying lavish homes, and accumulating material goods. But at the end of the day, possessions are fleeting. What endures are the relationships we cultivate.
Our time on this planet is short, yet we often waste it accumulating things we don’t need. I used to be guilty of this. I thought success meant a fancy car and an expensive watch. But over time, I realized that life’s greatest riches come from meaningful connections with other people. Now I invest in friendships and make the time to strengthen my bond with loved ones.
Some of my most cherished memories aren’t of lavish vacations or luxury goods. They’re quiet moments with close friends and family, sharing laughter over coffee, supporting each other through hard times, and creating lasting memories together. Life’s meaning and purpose come from these relationships. They add richness, joy, and fulfilment.
So make the time for people who matter to you. Call your parents, grab coffee with a friend, express your affection for loved ones. Strengthen your relationships and connections at every opportunity. At the end of your life, you won’t remember the watch you had or the car you drove. #You’ll remember the people who walked beside you and shared in life’s experiences. Focus on relationships, not possessions. They are life’s greatest gifts.
Giving Back Provides Greater Fulfillment Than Taking
Helping others in need gives me a sense of purpose and meaning. When I volunteer my time for a good cause, I feel like I’m contributing value to the world and making a difference in people’s lives. This kind of selfless giving provides a fulfillment that material gains or personal achievements never could.
Find your passion and make a difference. Think about issues you care deeply about and look for organizations in your area that are addressing them. Personally, I volunteer for an animal shelter, walking and playing with dogs and cats in need of adoption. Find what motivates you and pursue opportunities to give back in a meaningful way. Make a commitment to volunteer regularly and form connections with the people and animals you’re helping. Witnessing the impact of your efforts will inspire you to keep giving.
Help others in small ways every day. You don’t have to volunteer huge amounts of time to make a difference. Look for small opportunities each day to spread kindness. Help an elderly neighbor with yardwork or errands. Donate unused items to charities in your area. Make eye contact with people on the street and smile. Buy coffee for the person behind you in line. While these acts seem small, their impact can be huge. Focusing outside yourself and making a difference in small ways every day will change your outlook and bring you joy.
Making a habit of giving to others gets your mind off trivial worries and helps you gain perspective. It connects you with your community and fosters empathy and compassion. While giving may seem like it takes something away, the rewards of selfless acts are actually multiplied in your own life. Helping others in need provides a sense of purpose that leads to true and lasting fulfillment.
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Experiences Create Lasting Memories Over Things
Focus on experiences and memories, not material items. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve realized that the experiences I’ve had and the memories I’ve created are far more valuable than any material item I’ve purchased. Don’t get me wrong, I enjoy nice things as much as anyone. But at the end of the day, the new gadget or outfit I bought last month won’t provide me lasting joy or meaning. The experiences I’ve shared with loved ones, the places I’ve traveled, the awe-inspiring sunsets I’ve witnessed those are the things that stay with me and enrich my life.
Make time for experiences that matter. It’s so easy to get caught up in the busyness of life and lose sight of what really matters. But we must make the time for meaningful experiences, especially with friends and family, or we’ll regret it later on. Plan a weekend camping trip, visit an amusement park, learn a new hobby together, volunteer at a local charity, travel to a place you’ve never been. While these experiences may require time, money or effort, the rewards of memories made and time spent together will be well worth it.
Cherish the moments and memories. The moments that turn into cherished memories are often the simple ones—conversations with loved ones, inside jokes, traditions, acts of kindness, laughter, and natural beauty. Notice these moments as they happen and be fully present. Take mental snapshots. Share stories and photos of the experiences and memories you create. Though the moments themselves may pass, the memories can endure and continue to enrich your life for years to come. Focusing on experiences and moments rather than things will help provide a sense of meaning, joy, and connection in your life.
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Contributing to Something Bigger Than Yourself
Give Your Time. Giving your time to help others is one of the most valuable gifts. Volunteer at a local charity or non- profit, help out with community events, or find ways to support causes you care about. Making a positive difference in other people’s lives gives you a sense of purpose and connection,
Personally, I started volunteering at an animal shelter walking dogs and helping clean cages. Not only did it get me out of the house and active, but knowing I was making the dogs’ lives a little bit better gave me a huge boost of motivation and fulfilment. When times seem tough, give your time to help others and watch your own worries fade into the background.
Spread Kindness. In a world that often feels angry, divisive and isolating, spreading kindness is a radical act. Make it a habit to compliment strangers, say “please” and “thank you,” hold doors open, smile at people you pass on the street. You never know how much that small act of kindness might mean to someone else. And in the process, you’ll lift your own mood and brighten your day.
Kindness is contagious. When you spread positivity to others, they will often pass it on to people they encounter. Each act of goodwill, no matter how small, has a ripple effect that contributes to the greater good of the community. Make a commitment each day to spread kindness in your own way. The rewards to yourself and others will be enormous.
Contributing to something bigger than yourself gives life deeper meaning and purpose. Find ways each day to spread kindness, give your time to help others, and make a positive difference in the world around you. The motivation and fulfillment you gain will be life-changing.
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Living in the Present Beats Dwelling on the Past
Today is the only day we have to make a change. I used to dwell on the past and worry excessively about the future. I realized that by focusing so much on what I can’t control, I was missing out on fully experiencing the present moment. When we live in the past or future, we can’t appreciate what we have right now.
Life moves fast, and if we don’t stop to enjoy it, we’ll miss it. My advice is to start living in the now- notice the little details in your everyday life, like the warmth of the sun, the smile of a friend or the taste of your morning coffee. Be fully present in each moment. Let go of past regrets and future worries- they will still be there tomorrow. Today, choose to shift your focus to the present.
Make the most of each day and embrace life as it happens. Connecting to the present moment helps reduce stress and anxiety, improves your relationships and makes you appreciate life more. When you start living in the now, you’ll realize how much beauty exists in the simple things. Your life will feel more meaningful and content.
The past is history, the future is a mystery, but today is a gift—that’s why they call it the present. Live each moment like it’s your last and you’ll find true happiness. Let go of what you can’t control and make the choice each day to live fully in the present. This is the key to finding peace and enjoying life’s simple pleasures.
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Finding Meaning Brings More Joy Than Fame
As humans, we all crave purpose and meaning in our lives. We want to know that we matter and that our time on this planet has significance. For me, finding meaning and purpose has brought more fulfillment than any material success or public recognition ever could.
Chasing external validation is exhausting and unfulfilling. I spent years hustling to build my business and make a name for myself. I thought fame and fortune would make me happy, but in reality, every new milestone just moved the finish line further away. No amount of money or praise was ever enough. I was stuck on a hedonic treadmill, running in place to reach happiness that always eluded me.
True meaning comes from serving others. When I shifted my focus away from myself and towards adding value to others, everything changed. I discovered that using my skills and experiences to help and connect with people gave me a sense of meaning unlike anything I had experienced before. Making a positive impact on others became my motivation and reward.
Leave a legacy that matters. At the end of our lives, most of us want to know that we made a difference somehow. We want our time here to mean something. Finding purpose by serving others allows us to do that. It gives us a chance to spread more kindness, compassion, and positivity in the world and to leave behind a legacy of lives touched and made better in some small way.
To me, that is what finding meaning and purpose is all about. When we can turn our focus outward, chase fulfillment over success, and make a positive impact, we open ourselves up to living lives rich in joy, gratitude, and significance. And at the end of the day, that is what really matters most.
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Being Yourself Trumps Keeping Up Appearances
Keeping up with expectations of others and appearances can drain you. Focusing on what really matters to you and accepting yourself will lead to greater happiness and fulfillment.
As I’ve gotten older, I’ve realized that seeking approval and validation from others is a losing game. There will always be someone with a bigger house, fancier car, exciting lifestyle or more Instagram followers. But those superficial things do not define you or determine your self-worth.
What really matters is living according to your values and priorities. Do you value experiences over material goods? Creativity over conformity? Authenticity over status? Make choices that align with what you care about. Accept yourself as you are instead of chasing unrealistic societal standards of beauty and success.
Learn to appreciate yourself for who you are- your unique qualities, talents, quirks and imperfections. Do things that make you feel confident and bring you joy. Surround yourself with people who love and support you unconditionally. Their opinions are the only ones that truly matter.
Stop seeking approval through your appearance, accomplishments or possessions. You are enough, simply because you exist. Focus on growth and progress over perfection. Learn to be comfortable in your own skin instead of constantly trying to please others or prove your worth.
Life is too short to waste time and energy on superficial concerns and arbitrary societal pressures. Make your own rules and forge your own path. Embrace self-acceptance and practice radical self-love. That is true freedom—and the only way to achieve lasting inner peace and contentment.
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Making a Difference Counts More Than Personal Success
Success is fleeting, but making a difference in someone else’s life creates a lasting impact. Focusing only on myself and my own personal gains often leaves me feeling unfulfilled. When I help improve other people’s lives in a meaningful way, that is when I achieve true happiness and contentment.
As humans, we are social creatures who thrive on relationships and connecting with others. However, in today’s fast-paced world, it is easy to get caught up in the rat race and lose sight of what really matters—the people around us. Making a concerted effort to positively influence others gets us outside of ourselves and helps foster empathy and compassion. Whether it is volunteering my time, performing random acts of kindness, mentoring someone in need of guidance, or simply listening without judgment, these acts of service fill my own cup by pouring into others.
When my time on this earth is done, I want to leave behind a legacy of love and understanding. I want to know that I brought more peace and light into the world, not just temporary pleasures or accolades for myself. True success and happiness come from walking side by side with others, helping each other become better versions of ourselves, and building each other up through selfless acts along the journey of life. Focusing on “me” will only lead to loneliness and lack of purpose. But focusing on “we” and how we can contribute value to others—that is the path to meaning, contentment, and making a lasting difference.
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Inner Peace Surpasses Outer Perfection
Finding inner peace is one of life’s most rewarding pursuits. When you make your internal well-being a priority, external pressures and unrealistic societal standards of perfection seem trivial in comparison.
Focusing on my inner self has given me a sense of calm and contentment that transcends any outward achievement or physical attribute. I now understand that no amount of perceived physical flaws or imperfections can disturb my inner tranquility. This insight has allowed me to let go of unhealthy habits like negative self-talk and comparison to unrealistic societal ideals.
Meditation and mindfulness practices help me strengthen my connection to my inner being. Spending quiet time each day tuning into my breath and the present moment helps silence the ego and cultivate inner peace. From this place of calm awareness, I gain perspective on what really matters: relationships, experiences, and personal growth.
When inner peace becomes my compass, life’s challenges and setbacks no longer derail me. I can accept imperfections in myself and in life with grace and patience. My worth and value are not defined by worldly measures of success or my physical form. I have found an inner sanctuary that remains untouched by life’s turbulence.
Focusing on inner peace does not mean ignoring worldly responsibilities or self-care. But when I know my inner being is content, I can enjoy and appreciate life fully without grasping for more or worrying over what I lack. I have found the secret that all spiritual teachers point out: to look within for peace, joy, and purpose. Nurture your inner self and you will lack nothing.
Finding Work-Life Balance
Achieving balance between my work and personal life has been an ongoing challenge. In today’s fast- paced world, it’s easy to become consumed with the daily grind of my job and neglect the things that truly matter. However, I’ve come to realize that work is not the most important thing in life.
My relationships with friends and family, experiences that enrich my life, and taking good care of myself physically and mentally- these are the things that bring me the most happiness and fulfillment. When work stresses start to overwhelm me, I make an effort to step back and look at the bigger picture. Will this project or task still seem important in 10 years? Probably not. But the memories I make with loved ones will stay with me forever.
To find better work-life balance, I’ve set some ground rules for myself. I don’t check email once I’m off work, and I avoid working overtime when possible. I make time for hobbies, socializing, and exercise most days of the week. Taking all my paid time off for vacations is a must. When I do spend time with friends and family, I give them my full, undivided attention.
Life moves fast, and there will always be more work to do. But at the end of the day, work should not be at the center of my world. Maintaining balance means sometimes saying “no” at the office in order to say “yes” to the moments in life that shape who I am as a person. My job will not remember me when I’m gone, but the lives I’ve touched along the way certainly will. Keeping this perspective helps me focus on what really matters in the end.
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Pursuing Your Passions and Interests
When life feels overwhelming, it’s easy to lose sight of the things that truly matter to you. However, making time for your passions and interests is vital for your wellbeing and happiness. Focusing on the activities that excite or fulfill you can help reframe your perspective to see beyond the daily grind.
For me, pursuing hobbies like photography, reading, and creative writing provides an escape from the stresses of everyday life. Immersing myself in these interests boosts my mood and motivation, allowing me to tap into a flow state where time seems to slip away. Even small actions, like picking up a camera to capture an inspiring sunset or opening a book of poetry, can help shift my mindset to a more positive state.
What sparks your curiosity or fuels your creativity? Think about the topics or activities that energize you. It could be anything from gardening to learning a new language. Make the time to reconnect with your interests, even if it’s in small ways. Feed your passions and they will feed you in return through a sense of purpose and joy.
Life moves quickly, so take opportunities to slow down and do things you genuinely care about. Pursuing your passions and interests can help give you a healthier perspective to better navigate challenges. And in the process, you just might rediscover parts of yourself.
So take a step back and ask yourself what really matters in the grand scheme of things. Then make space in your life for the pursuits that point you to a greater purpose and fill you with meaning. Your passions have the power to lift you above the noise and remind you of the beauty of living fully.
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The 80/20 Rule: Focus on High-Impact Activities
The 80/20 rule suggests that 80% of your results come from 20% of your efforts. In other words, a few high-impact activities are responsible for most of your progress. Concentrate on these to avoid wasting time on less significant tasks.
As I look at how I spend my days, I realize much of my time is consumed by relatively unimportant things- social media, TV, chores – that provide little lasting value. If I redirected that time to high-impact activities like spending time with loved ones, exercising, learning new skills or working on important projects, I could achieve so much more.
Making the most of each day requires focusing on what really matters. Ask yourself what the 20% of your activities are that will drive 80% of your happiness, health, relationships and success. Then make the time for those priorities. For me, it’s connecting with close friends, reading to expand my mind, and tackling the work projects that will have the biggest impact.
We only have so many hours in the day, so we must be selective. The 80/20 rule teaches us to be intentional and channel our energy into the high-impact 20% that will move us closer to our goals and give life deeper meaning. Make the choice to focus on what’s significant and let the rest fall away. Our lives are brief and precious, so make the moments matter.
The 80/20 rule changed my perspective on how I spend my time. I realized life’s too short to waste on things that don’t really matter. My challenge to you is this: identify the 20% of activities that will generate 80% of the results you want in life, then commit to making those a priority each and every day. Focus on the high-impact, and let everything else fade into the background. Your life will be richer for il
Conclusion
As I reflect on all the important things in life, it’s clear my priorities need recalibrating. The trivial issues that distract me will fade, but the meaningful connections with loved ones are what I cherish forever. Life is fleeting so I must refocus on what matters: being present with family, deepening bonds with friends, and finding purpose and meaning. My health, relationships, personal growth, and values like compassion and integrity—these are the pillars. Everything else is just background noise. I want to live with intention, immersed in the moment, with an open heart full of gratitude. The big-picture perspective realigns me to my highest self.
References
- The 80-20 Rule (aka Pareto Principle): What It Is, How It Works By CARLA TARDI Updated December 19, 2023
- There’s more to life than being happy | Emily Esfahani Smith | TED
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