Live Life in All Directions, Not Just Forward

A note to young leaders.

I recently came across this line by the American naturalist, Diane Ackerman:

“I don’t want to get to the end of my life and find that I have just lived the length of it. I want to have lived the width of it as well.”

I nodded, but couldn’t help adding: “Yes, but don’t forget to live the depth and height of it too.”

That’s so often the missing axis in the geometry of a great life.

Length is duty and endurance. We all have to show up and stay the course.

Width is curiosity and variety – saying “yes” to new experiences and maintaining a growth mindset.

Depth is reflection and self-awareness. Thinking deeply, asking “why”, and finding meaning and inner peace.

Height is aspiration and transcendence. Dreaming big, experiencing beauty, being open to epiphany.

Don’t just live the length and breadth of life – live the depth and height of it too.

Life is multi-dimensional. You should be too.