A meaningful life is better than a long one

Everybody wants to live long, but very few think about making an impact or living a life with meaning. 

A meaningful life is one filled with purpose, connection, impact and joy. It’s not a life of routine and isolation. It’s a life where you create change. 

Methuselah is known as the longest-lived human in history. But aside from his age, there’s no notable accomplishment we remember him for. I see no meaning in a life without impact. 

Consider Jesus. He died at 33, yet every moment of his life was purposeful. He healed, taught and transformed lives. 

Another wholesome example is Princess Diana. She was a philanthropist who lived her life with compassion and kindness. Whether it’s fighting stigma around AIDS or supporting the elderly and sick, she made her years count. She died at 36.

Our lives should be lived with the sole purpose of adding something to the world. You may not be able to help the whole universe, but you can help a part of it. 

Live your life to leave your name in history.

A life without fulfillment is not worthwhile. And a long life alone doesn’t define success. Fulfillment comes from relationships, creativity and service, not years. 

Media and culture often glorify longevity as the true meaning of a well-lived life. But the obsession with living long and the fear of death have trapped many in a life without depth or direction. 

So ask yourself: 

• What are you truly chasing — long life or purpose? 

• If you died today, what name would you leave behind?

• What impact will the life you’re creating make in the world?

Making an impact doesn’t mean you must be a philanthropist like Diana or a healer like Jesus. You can choose to be creative and let your art speak. You can be a doctor who finds new ways to save lives. 

Even musicians leave a lasting impact. Tupac, Fela Kuti, and Michael Jackson weren’t philanthropists, but their music lives on. 

Writers inspire, challenge and promote cultural narratives, and help others find meaning. 

Take Chinua Achebe, for example, his works not only celebrate African culture but also confront colonialism, identity and the complexities of society. His storytelling gave voice to Africa and changed perspectives. 

Impact can also be created through cultural expression. Take Hilda, for instance. Her Guinness World Record wasn’t just about recognition. It was a showcase of resilience, passion and a celebration of Nigerian cuisine. 

Through her cooking marathon and her record for the largest serving of Nigerian-style jollof rice, she brought people together and inspired a nation. 

These collective efforts, whether through art, activism, medicine or music, are what make the world a better place. 

Instead of pursuing a life that stretches to 90 years with no notable accomplishments, choose a life where you change lives. 

The Journey that matters isn’t always the longest, but the one that leaves a mark.