Og Mandino: 'Work as though you would live forever, and live as though you would die today. Go another mile!'

Work as though you would live forever, and live as though you would die today. Go another mile!

The quote by Og Mandino, "Work as though you would live forever, and live as though you would die today. Go another mile!" encapsulates a profound concept of embracing the present and nurturing an ambitious spirit. In a straightforward manner, it urges individuals to approach their work with dedication and purpose, as if their actions would have an everlasting impact. Simultaneously, it emphasizes the significance of living life to the fullest, fully aware of the fragility and temporality of our existence. Mandino urges us to go beyond the expected and push ourselves even further, highlighting the importance of going the extra mile in all aspects of life.However, to truly understand the depth and importance of this quote, we can explore an unexpected philosophical concept: the philosophical approach of existentialism. Existentialism delves into questions of purpose, freedom, and the authenticity of one's actions. It challenges individuals to recognize that they are responsible for determining the meaning of their own lives. By applying this concept to Mandino's quote, we find a fascinating juxtaposition between the external world of work and the internal world of existence.When Mandino encourages individuals to work as though they would live forever, he is urging them to engage fully with their work, recognizing that their actions can have lasting consequences. In existential terms, this aligns with the idea of finding meaning in our external endeavors. By dedicating ourselves wholeheartedly to our work, we not only contribute to society but also find purpose and fulfillment in the process. We shape our legacy and leave a lasting impact, even if we may never physically witness the fruits of our labor.On the other hand, "live as though you would die today" directs our attention inward, urging us to embrace the present moment and celebrate the preciousness of life. In existential terms, this quote resonates with the concept of embracing our individual freedom and asserting our existence authentically. It challenges us to live fully, taking risks and pursuing our passions without delay, for we never know when our time will run out. By living each day as though it were our last, we refuse to be bound by societal expectations and instead create our own narrative, guided by the callings of our authentic selves.The final part of Mandino's quote, "Go another mile!" further bolsters the existentialist perspective. Going the extra mile signifies a commitment to transcending mediocrity and embracing our potential. Existentialism encourages individuals to constantly push boundaries, to surpass their limits, and to continuously seek personal growth and self-improvement. By going another mile, we challenge ourselves, evolving both professionally and personally, enriching our lives with new experiences and reaching heights we previously thought unattainable.In conclusion, Og Mandino's quote serves as a powerful reminder to work diligently and lead a purposeful life, while also embracing the ephemerality of our existence and striving for personal growth. When viewed through the lens of existentialism, this quote becomes even more transformative. It emphasizes the importance of finding meaning in both our external endeavors and in our internal journey of self-discovery. So, let us work tirelessly, driven by purpose, and at the same time, let us appreciate each moment fully, for we never know when our time will come to an end. Together, these principles empower us to transcend our limitations and go another mile on the journey of life.