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Dr. Eric Perry
192 Comments

How to Find Meaning In Your Life

Written by Dr. Eric Perry
Image Credit: Pixabay

“There’s nothing like impending death to rouse you from existential boredom.” ~Roger Ebert

One of my pet peeves is to hear others complain about how bored they are with life. They wonder out loud, “What is the purpose of it all if we are going to die anyway?” To be bored with our life is a luxury we cannot afford and should not indulge.

I believe that this combination of boredom and the unreasonable belief that time can be wasted without repercussions is due primarily to not having a clear meaning for your life. Meaning can be found in the most beautiful moments of life as well as the most heart-wrenching ones. Often, the meaning of one’s life is found after you have crossed paths with death. After an encounter with the possibility of nonexistence, we tend to renew our vows to life. Suddenly, life appears to be a luminous blotch of bright colors surrounded by a vast sea of unknown dark shadows. From our vantage point, death appears ominous and threatening as it encircles the luminosity of life.

Death, however, has a purpose. Death reminds us of the frailty of life and the banality of our everyday stressors. Death highlights how truly special life is. Life is anything but boring. We are fortunate to be alive even if it is for a comparatively short amount of time. The very fact that life is so fragile as well as unique (for we have yet to find other life forms in the constellations), should be more than enough reason to cherish it. You are part of the human race and it took a unique combination of factors and incredible odds to make you. Life does not distinguish between races, genders or any other variable that makes humans distinct from one another. Quite simply, you are part of the living.

Acknowledging that death exists is the catalyst for truly realizing how awe-inspiring life is. You are alive and because of that, you have an obligation to those that have died, to live fully and never take any of the time you have for granted.

To find purpose and meaning in life is to quench the fire of existential angst. I am not going to presume to know the meaning of your life. The quest for the meaning of life has been much discussed philosophically, scientifically, theologically and even psychologically. We all will have a unique perspective on the meaning of life made up of unique variables. You alone can identify your purpose in life and find meaning in your life’s events.

Next time you feel compelled to share how bored you are with your life, ask yourself whether there is something more you could be doing to honor your time. Thank you for taking a moment to visit my blog. I hope you enjoyed this post. I would like to hear your thoughts on how you have found meaning in your life.

The thoughts expressed in this blog post are my own and are not meant to create a professional relationship with the reader. This blog does not replace or substitute the help of a medical professional. Please note, I am unable to answer your specific questions as I am not fully aware of all of the circumstances.

Kindly,
Dr. Perry

Copy of Dr. Eric Perry

“I help ambitious and high achieving individuals manifest a life of success and fulfillment in order to achieve the life they truly desire.”

Dr. Eric Perry | drericperry.com

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192 responses to How to Find Meaning In Your Life

  1. Analyn says:

    I received some very difficult news today. My father was diagnosed with a late stage form of cancer. My heart is broken. Reading this post brought me to tears even though I have already shed many tears today. I don’t know how any of this is going to go for our family. I have never dealt with death ever in my life, let alone my dad. He is my best friend. Sad doesn’t do justice to how I am feeling. I’m sorry for rambling. It’s just .. a lot. I am praying and praying that the treatments will work. Thank you for writing this post. It’s exactly what I needed today.

    Liked by 25 people

  2. M.B. says:

    Beautiful post. After my husband passed away I dedicated myself to living the best life I could live. Every day I remind myself how precious life is. Thank you

    Liked by 18 people

  3. Maria says:

    This post is so true. We complain so much about our lives and fail to see how everyday is a miracle and a blessing. Thank you Dr. Perry

    Liked by 21 people

  4. shineb4 says:

    My grandpa would always say “Boredom is a lack of intelligence.” I can’t ever recall a moment I have ever been bored. I grew up with such a wonder for life and understanding and life is unlimited to learning.

    Liked by 20 people

  5. Natalie Mansfield says:

    Death is a powerful motivator. I’m watching my neighbour – a beautiful, vibrant, independent woman who stands out in any crowd – fade away, dying a slow and painful death. It’s a heartbreaking reminder that our time is finite.

    Liked by 16 people

    • Dr. Perry says:
      Author

      So true and so sad. We need to fully embrace our happy moments and loved ones. They are like insulation to the hard times we all must face. Thank you for sharing such powerful insight✨

      Liked by 7 people

  6. tamarakhodr says:

    This is a fantastic piece. Thank you for this! It speaks to my soul! I learnt that my purpose is to help others after my personal near death experience, which I’m totally grateful for! I’m still not sure exactly how to help, but I try to do what agrees with my soul as much as possible and remember that sometimes I need to fill my own cup in order to fill others’. I’ve always had trouble finding my calling and I would appreciate some advice in how to figure that out 🙂

    Liked by 18 people

  8. B🌹 says:

    Life is unique in regards to each and every person on this earth. Many times, I have struggled to find the meaning of life. Was I put on this earth to work 9 to 5 M-F and not achieve my own dreams? Probably not! As for me, I’m still searching… However, I do know we are meant to help one another, to support one another and if possible bring new life into this crazy, yet beautiful world. Amazing post, something I needed to read this morning! I appreciate the catalyst given to me.

    Liked by 15 people

  10. carol hopkins says:

    I love helping people – that is what gives meaning to my life. Hearing individual stories and sharing my own experiences gives me joy. Yes, death is part of life and I actually have been thinking about it a fair bit – autumn brings many anniversaries of various deaths in my family and as you say it does help me cherish this great gift. We only have one. I hope to make a difference, no matter how small. And that also gives meaning and purpose to my daily doings. I enjoy your blog. Thanks for sharing your thoughts on life, death, and meaning.

    Liked by 17 people

    • Dr. Perry says:
      Author

      Thank you for your comment Carol. I often visit your blog and enjoy the way you write. I can tell you are a very caring and positive person. I hope you continue sharing your much needed positivity. Have a great day✨

      Liked by 10 people

      • carol hopkins says:

        Aw, that’s so kind of you. I am far from perfect, but I do believe in positive thinking. Thanks so much – both for your kind words and for visiting my little blog. Have a wonderful week!

        Liked by 8 people

    • writegardener says:

      I had not been able to determine my “calling” for a long time, thinking that it had to be on a grand scale. Giving myself permission to shift perspective, I realize the little things are also important in making a difference. I’m a great listener. And sometimes that means more to someone than what I would guess. Connecting with others, being helpful, or touching someone’s life in a beneficial way, is what life is about to me.

      Liked by 5 people

  11. rashu2015 says:

    I actually stopped saying “I am bored” thanks to my husband who always used to tell me that never ever he felt bored in his entire life because there is so much to do, so much to learn.

    Liked by 15 people

  12. deviantdaeva says:

    A lot of philosophers have contemplated the idea of the meaning of life, and it is hard to not one day be faced with the reality of meaninglessness, limited time and also limited possibilities. I like the existentialist approaches. Schopenhauer, for instance, says that however much we are stuck in a meaningless reproductive cycle and however little we can control the universe and its arbitrary functions, we can still choose to focus on the things that bring us joy and embrace us with beauty, the small things can bring meaning too.
    Sartre on the other hand thinks that we need to overcome our fear of death and instead accept it as part of life, and that we need to acknowledge its existence to be able to live life to the fullest. Without the pressure of things being limited in time, we might avoid living and only exist in the circles of every day life meaninglessness. One thing that I find especially interesting with him is that he thinks we have a choice when it comes to death, we can always choose death, we can not remove the possibility of it, but we can at any point choose it, and hence we have some sort of control over it. For him that poses a positive possibility because it can decrease the fear of death.
    Interesting post, thank you for taking this topic up!

    Liked by 17 people

    • Dr. Perry says:
      Author

      Thank you for your insight on the topic. You stated it beautifully and made me want to read Sartre. Have a wonderful day✨

      Liked by 6 people

  14. valleygirlwalking says:

    This gave me a bit of a lump in my throat when reading. I’m in a very strange and scary time in my life and this is a wonderful reminder of how precious life is. I’m trying so hard to build my life back up. This put it into perspective – to think of those in a far worse position as there is always someone going through something worse. Life is truly a gift.

    Liked by 15 people

  15. Vivian says:

    I really enjoyed reading this reflective post today. 😄 Life is a precious gift and each moment is to be cherished. After experiencing traumatic brain injury, and all that comes with it, I’ve found so much purpose in writing to encourage others who also suffer. If it weren’t for my TBI journey I would have never, ever decided to blog or found so many others experiencing hardships that I can relate to. So in a way, TBI has been a gift and now I’ve found my purpose. God bless you! I always love your articles and quotes and look forward to them.

    Liked by 17 people

  17. KJ Smith says:

    “You are alive and because of that you have an obligation to those that have died, to live fully and never take any of the time you have for granted.” So good!

    Liked by 15 people

  18. sarkless says:

    Excellent post! I couldn’t agree more. I have dealt with depression on and off since I was 15. Often the cause of my depression is a lack of willingness to believe in myself and my goals – its all just too much sometimes. I have learnt that meaning can be found in the simplest of things, like having a cup of tea and reading the day away when you can’t imagine being able to do anything more productive – knowing that its OK not to be OK and that the feeling of hopelessness will only stick around if I don’t look after my soul every day. While I think its important to aim high, I think its also important to remove certain expectations and believe that you will get to your goal in good time. Like Nelson Mandela said ‘I have so much to do today I will have to pray for 3 hours just to get it done’. He tackled his tasks after looking after his soul, rather than applying more pressure and stress – and he sure accomplished a lot.

    Liked by 15 people

  21. livinginspiredby says:

    Great post, when we think about it, we really have a very short time left in life. If we are lucky to see 90 and beyond we hope that most of the later years are healthy and functional. Life brings tough challenges as well as good times, I want to get in as many experiences as I possibly can. So when I’m ready to die, I can say I enjoyed my life as this person I am now in this body and to know that I will never be this person again, I want to give her as much life experience as possible, so she could take those experiences with her on her last breathe of life.

    Liked by 13 people

  22. susan pearson says:

    Thank you for bringing the subject up Dr. Perry. I have a different perspective. That is there is actually no death to our Self. The body comes and goes, of course, but if we can know we (as the consciousness of the body) go on, then the stress of the short life is eliminated and so would boredom…which, after all, is a reaction to stress. If Eternity had an emotion it would be Patience.

    Liked by 14 people

  24. Frances Sullivan says:

    Wonderfully stated thoughts – eloquent, succinct, and thought-provoking. Lovely writing.

    Liked by 10 people

  25. Michele Kearns says:

    I had a coworker who retired and then 6 months later came back because she was “bored.” Huh? I’ve been through unemployment and was so busy with job hunting and networking that I had trouble making time to do housework and rest. I was not the only unemployed person who was so on the go they wondered how they ever had time to have a career. Even if I am able to retire, I have so many interests that I will never be bored.

    Liked by 13 people

  26. Chad Zizelman says:

    Great post! This is a subject that my wife and I often meditate and study on. Taking into consideration these viewpoints, it allows you to step away from stress and focus on the joys of life. Excited to read more of your future posts!

    Liked by 12 people

  28. theoutspokenintrovet says:

    This is (another) very interesting piece. Your perspective is motivational and eye opening. As cliché as it sounds, our lives are what we make of them so if someone is bored of theirs they are clearly not making the most of it and it is up to them to become un-bored

    Liked by 12 people

  29. Covert Novelist says:

    Beautifully said! I’m not one given to suffering from boredom, never have been. There’s simply too much life to live and too little time to do it! Learning something new, trying something new, experiencing something new are opportunities available to each one of us. Grasp on, take hold, try something new. It doesn’t have to be something terrifying, just new, something you’ve never tried before. Life is precious! Every moment counts! Make as many as possible noteworthy! 🙂 Loved this, Dr. Perry, very much!

    Liked by 12 people

    • Dr. Perry says:
      Author

      Thank you so much! I agree. As I get older I find myself contemplated life and it’s beauty almost on a regular basis. I don’t want to waste a minute of it. Have a wonderful day✨

      Liked by 4 people

  30. Dr. Perry says:
    Author

    You’re welcome! Thank you for sharing your insight and keep sharing your positivity✨

    Liked by 7 people

  31. earthwalking13 says:

    Great post! Your statement that “Often, the meaning of one’s life is found after you have crossed paths with death” really captures it. In our culture, we seem to hide from death. We remove ourselves from it. Make sure it happens in hospitals and nursing homes. I was exposed to death early. Taught me to value each moment. Each breath is precious 🙂

    Liked by 11 people

    • Dr. Perry says:
      Author

      What you state is true. Death is taboo in our culture. It’s a part of life and acceptance of that makes life more meaningful. Thank you for your insightful comment!✨

      Liked by 5 people

  33. dmhendricks71 says:

    I don’t think I recall ever saying I was bored. Maybe when I was a child, but not as an adult. I’ve never had a brush with death, however, after my ex-husband told me he wanted a divorce, that was the first time I have ever contemplated death. That was a tough time to pull through. But I’m here and I’m stronger than ever I believe. I cherish my life. I even got my first tattoo at age 47 and part of it is a semi-colon…yup I followed that movement. It’s the word Strength, where the first ‘t’ is a cross and above the word is a semi-colon with a butterfly on the semi-colon. The cross and the word are pretty self-explanatory. The semi-colon means my life could have ended, but I chose to go on and the butterfly signifies new life after my divorce. As tough as it is being single and behind on all my bills, I cherish my life…every single second of it. Praise God! Thank you for this most beautiful post!!

    Liked by 13 people

    • Dr. Perry says:
      Author

      Thank you for your beautiful comment Dottie! I am happy you are here sharing your wisdom. Wishing you well✨✨✨

      Liked by 6 people

  34. speakingsoulish says:

    When you feel bored, it is not because you don’t have anything to do, but because you don’t have passion for the options that you have. Nowadays it is too easy to numb that feeling, because on Internet you can quickly find an entertainment that doesn’t engage you mentally, but occupies your time, so you kind of trick the feeling of emptiness. Even though I generally feel great passion for life, I sometimes find myself doing that, because every now and then I get lost on my way, I guess.

    Liked by 15 people

  35. alexandraspeck says:

    I love this. Agreed. Wish I could have more perspective like this every day and see the wonderful colors. Sometimes, I get so bogged down or overly-existential in my thinking, as you say. And, really, we should just stop thinking so much and start living more and being more grateful and less bored!

    Liked by 11 people

    • Dr. Perry says:
      Author

      At times we all need a reminder that we do not live forever and as you say “stop thinking so much and start living.” Have a wonderful day✨

      Liked by 6 people

  36. innervoice28 says:

    This was an excellent post Dr .Perry …Meaningful Indeed ….One should always have a definite purpose of his / her life ….Otherwise ,life just becomes a number in between those dashes …..

    Liked by 11 people

  37. Ash says:

    I enjoyed this piece. I love how you reminded us that we have the power to choose our purpose in life and the meaning behind events that occur. Thank you for sharing 🙂

    Liked by 13 people

    • Dr. Perry says:
      Author

      Thank you so much for taking the time to read the post and commenting. I appreciate the feedback!✨

      Liked by 7 people

  40. wisemystic says:

    Thanks Dr. Perry for this valuable piece. It took me a decade to find out my true purpose in life. I was imbecile enough to chase after something which wasn’t meant for me.

    Liked by 11 people

  42. notdonner says:

    I had a discussion with a buddy of mine last month about people who seem to want things to collapse, looking always at how “messed up” everything is, and pessimistic about the future. Go make a positive difference in someone’s life. I am empathetic but not very tolerant of people who say these things.

    Liked by 13 people

  43. driftyness says:

    I used to say that I was bored a lot as a kid. My parents used to tell me that I shouldn’t be bored but I didn’t really understand what they meant. Now that I’m older, I get it. Being bored says something about my mindset – it means there are a lot of things I’m not seeing and appreciating! I think a good way to avoid boredom is helping others and turning our attention outwards instead of inwards. And I agree with your great point that if we’re tempted to feel bored, we should think about what actions we’re not taking and then take those steps! Your passion for life really came through in this post, and so did a poetic side to your writing! I enjoyed this, thank you 🙂

    Liked by 13 people

    • Dr. Perry says:
      Author

      Thank you for sharing your insight! I’m glad you enjoyed the post and I appreciate your compliment✨

      Liked by 6 people

  45. Jay says:

    Just like you, I won’t pretend I know the meaning of life, but what gives my own life meaning are two things: activity and people. Activity can be exercise, writing, reading, just doing things makes me feel like I’m alive. And people – those few one can’t live without – make life meaningful outside my own (sometimes selfish, sometimes really necessary) needs. Thanks for another great post!

    Liked by 12 people

  46. Village Talk Caribguhl says:

    I find meaning because I am. I have the privilege each day when I open my eyes to do something. I chose that something to be positive always. Just this Friday I was met with a decision of going one way or another. It was a tough decision but I chose the right way.

    Liked by 9 people

  47. Bindu says:

    Those who have been there and back would truly know how it feels. And one should listen to their words. People and caring for them should be part of the living process.

    Liked by 10 people

  48. livingonthebacksideoffifty says:

    Yes, Dr. Perry! Thank you.
    And might i say that when you write from your heart like this, using your experience and insights of course, you are touching human hearts and minds at a much deeper level than the basically informational style posts.
    Just say’in, because we need it.

    Liked by 9 people

    • Dr. Perry says:
      Author

      Thank you for taking the time to read this. I am very happy this post resonated with you. I agree with what you are saying and I will do my best✨

      Liked by 5 people

  49. Sindhuja Manohar says:

    Thank you for this important post, Dr. Perry! It astounds me when people can say they are bored with their lives. I believe having the “privilege” of being bored simply means one hasn’t lived enough, seen enough, or perhaps, suffered enough, to come through the other end just happy to be surviving and having a chance to create more moments of thriving! It is ironic that us humans have to be put through failures, challenges, and trauma to see the true beauty of living: the limitless value of experiencing each moment as if it were our last, and therefore making the most of every day that’s given to us as a gift.

    Liked by 10 people

  50. janetsm says:

    I have been blessed my entire life to have interest in many things. I cannot imagine being bored, and I pity those who find themselves in such a state.

    Liked by 9 people

  52. Hope says:

    For me, even though I am retired, I DON’T have enough time. If anyone wants to share some of their time I would appreciate. For one (1) be happy you woke up in the morning! 😉
    My son 🧐asks me every day “what did you do today”? 😯My answer was a little of this, a little of that. Then I thought why not write it down. Now when he asks me “what I did”, get my notebook 📓out and give him what his smart, witty, non-bored, “bonkers” mom did. 😉☺

    Liked by 9 people

  53. AHolyCalling says:

    Omg. So many points in one post has me excited about reading another good read from you. But here are some of my best.
    1. unreasonable belief that time can be wasted without repercussions
    2. The very fact that life is so fragile as well as unique should be more than enough reason to cherish it. 
    3. To find purpose and meaning in life is to quench the fire of existential angst

    Thanks again for inspiring life.

    Liked by 9 people

  54. billyturtlesa says:

    You know I’ve got so much uncertainty but when I’m making music and in the studio I feel so alive so I suppose the one thing that brings me life as opposed to bringing meaning to life is working towards making my life/music career a success.

    Liked by 10 people

  59. Krisztina Kapuvari says:

    I was spiraling down into depression lately – I guess… I slept 12-14 hours a day and did only watch videos/movies…
    then I realized today that I’m in charge.

    I like to write about inspirational, motivational realizations of mine on my blog. Although one thing people tend to forget to mention: you need to record your findings and REVISIT them once a while. Humans we forget sometimes that we or someone else around had already figured out some powerful ideas about life, which can potentially solve our currently pressing issues.

    As bible says: there is nothing new under the sun. [ecc]
    So true… don’t forget, you have already found solutions or ideas can ease your pressing problems of today, at your past.

    Thanks Dr Perry for reassuring that life is about finding meaning. Finding meaning is about finding passion. Passion is created by action, not the other way around.
    So here it first come action: today, I applied for a journalism course I’ve been looking at for over a half year now. 🙃💪🏼

    Liked by 11 people

    • Dr. Perry says:
      Author

      Thank you for sharing your insight. Congratulations on signing up for the journalism course!✨

      Liked by 4 people

  60. joylennick says:

    Hi Dr. Perry, Thank you for commenting on my poem and for your article. Although I’m more mature than mature… (while feeling 40 mentally), it is true what you say about age and mortality. It concentrates the mind beautifully…Of course many of us realise that we could die at any time, but somehow – when young – we are so busy LIVING, we don’t give it a thought. If we become parents (I have three sons), quite suddenly their lives become more precious than gold, and the thought of them dying is too terrible to contemplate. Sadly, the passing years take away some of our dear friends and family and we have to learn to cope with grief. But now, strangely enough, although I can hear the clock ticking loud and clear, I am open to all the simple joys of life and appreciate everything as if new-found. Despite several tragedies (the norm in most peoples lives) I have been blessed with a wonderful husband, sons, family and friends and am still as curious and learning more about life each day. I am fascinated by people, music, all the arts and in particular, writing and hope to stay on my perch until around ninety… Best wishes.

    Liked by 11 people

  61. JanBeek says:

    Dr. Perry, you asked us, your readers, to share how we are finding – or have found – meaning in our life. I’ve read 113 responses to this thoughtful blog, and have seen your kind responses to each, acknowledging the comments. In one response you said, “As I get older I find myself contemplated life and it’s beauty almost on a regular basis.“ That response resonated with me. 🤗Approaching 80, I realize I’m entering the last quarter of my life (although I watched an amazing 109 year old on You Tube today… so maybe it’s not my last quarter after all!), anyway… like you, as I celebrate each passing day, I contemplate life, its meaning and its beauty more often, too. I find meaning in gratitude. In my “Thankfulness Journal” I record daily at least 5 things for which I’m grateful. In my prayer journal, I list the answered prayers as well as the ones I continue to request. I acknowledge the goodness around me, thank God for my blessings, and open my heart to the ways in which I can use this day of life to help others. In giving I find life worth living. Give thanks. Give help. Give love. Your blog helps others reflect on life and living and what gives us and our days meaning. Thank you for doing that! I’m glad I follow your “makeitultrapsychology” even though that intimidating, academic title kept me away for awhile! 🤪❤️

    Liked by 9 people

    • Dr. Perry says:
      Author

      Hi Jan, I am so glad we found each other’s blogs. I don’t want my blog to be intimidating! I want to be able to contribute only in a positive way. Thank you so much for sharing your beautiful insight. I wish you many more happy and healthy years to come and look forward to your knowledgeable insight on this blog and on your blog. Have a wonderful day ❤️

      Liked by 6 people

  62. Pamela Pietersz says:

    Relatable post. While I haven’t really been bored since I was a teenager it’s true that it’s because one hasn’t figured out in what meaningful ways you can spend your time (yet).

    I was confronted with death at a young age so I can attest to that motivating me to find my own meaning. There can be no darkness without light.

    Thank you for sharing!

    Liked by 11 people

  64. thehonestpeach says:

    “Acknowledging that death exists is the catalyst for truly realizing how awe-inspiring life is.”

    Great stuff.

    Liked by 9 people

  68. deodeeds says:

    I think that people who gets bored are the ones who are not involved in anything that is creating a positive impact on the society. Because we are hardwired that way, whenever we do something that is creating an impact on the society, however small contribution it is, it gives an upliftment and satisfaction to the soul.

    That is the reason people are sometimes not happy and they do not know the reason because deep down they know the reason but they are not ready to accept as this seem a bit strange to them and they try to find some fancy reason while the answer is inside them and so simple one.

    As far as I am concerned I have always like this, to create an impact on people’s mind but now after suffering so many things( and spending hours reading between the lines), I have realized that the real happiness is in the sharing not collecting and I am trying to get happiness now.

    Liked by 12 people

  69. Sarah says:

    I used to think my life is useless till the day I started studying for a Bachelor’s degree. I’m on my third year and I’m working as a private English teacher. This affected my hugely. I feel strong and powerful. My goal is a journey of changing the world to be a better place. And I indeed can achieve that by teaching the little, powerful kids the values and principles we all should believe in to live peacefully. It’s not that easy, though. But I’m gonna try.

    Also, we might think that achieving tremendous goals can make us the happiest, but actually the little details in our daily lives is what makes us feel over the moon.

    Liked by 13 people

  70. Medj Lacambra says:

    I fully agree with you. I used to be constantly bored and felt I was stuck in a rut. Until I had a close encounter with death – and then every second was so precious and I try to live everyday to the fullest. Grateful for this second chance at life and hope I can serve my purpose well.

    Liked by 11 people

  71. Journal Girl Jaclyn says:

    There must be a lot of contemplative energy in the air lately. These last few weeks and especially today I have been feeling the pull into a slight direction in a different way with my soul’s purpose-work. I have decided to finally pull the trigger on an idea I have been thinking about for a year. I think about what I want my legacy to be, what I want my soul’s message to the world to be, and what IS the meaning of MY life and purpose-work. I am so glad I cleansed a bit today and left some Facebook groups run by some who are followed by many, many women because I want to stay within my own soul’s alignment to the Universe. I am following my soul’s intuition, following my gut, and allowing myself to go into this slight new direction because I want to stay IN my authentic happiness and in my authentic happiness in my own life. Great post! I am happy to read this! ❤ ❤ ❤

    Liked by 12 people

  72. Covert Novelist says:

    I really loved this! I have never been bored (ok, maybe once or twice) but really, there are 100 lifetimes worth of information knowledge experience let alone meaningful movies, songs art…need I say more….that we can explore. I love life and I enjoy every minute of it. Thank you for this 🙂

    Liked by 10 people

  73. StevenB says:

    I love the passage “Death however has a purpose. Death reminds us of the frailty of life and the banality of our everyday stressor” You have a way with words Dr. Perry. Keep up the good work.

    Liked by 8 people

  77. josephtainsh says:

    You’re speaking about duality, the contrast in life gives us perception and meaning. There is no sun without the moon, summer without the winter, light without the darkness and joy of life without the inevitability of death. Thanks for sharing.

    Liked by 7 people

  78. Ash says:

    Excellent post! We can never be bored if we take the time out to find out the things that bring us joy and commit to doing those things on a daily basis🌷

    Liked by 7 people

  81. brookejcutler says:

    Absolutely wonderful post. Life is precious. Even sadness brings the most beautiful gifts to those willing to live with an open heart and open eyes. I appreciate your perspective very much. Thank you for sharing it so eloquently, as always! 🙂

    Liked by 6 people

  82. East Coast Approach says:

    Well this certainly hit home. For a different reason than perhaps what was intended. My step father has just entered hospice. He doesn’t have long. And we was bored. He was an active person who especially loved gardening. He was no longer able to do the things he loved. He slept most every day, all day. He is in kidney failure. He has lived a great life and has said so often throughout the last couple of weeks. But he is tired now. And rightfully so. Thank you for the post.

    Liked by 6 people

  85. vgeorg says:

    I found many competent and positive words in your blog. I am jurist but psychology and philosophy are very interesting science for me.

    Liked by 6 people

  86. Shekhar Bhardwaj says:

    “I believe that this combination of boredom and the unreasonable belief that time can be wasted without repercussions is due primarily to not having a clear meaning for your life.” – that’s so beautifully written. Lately I’ve been in such a vicious cycle of feeling wasted at my failures that I almost forgot that the reason I chose to continue despite failing repeatedly is the very nature of seeking the meaning out in my life. Thanks a lot for sharing your thoughts.

    Liked by 6 people

  87. nomusam says:

    Beautiful post and I can relate .. have lost my dad and two brothers in recent years. This has made me remember. Reading the book “ When breath becomes air” has been an eye opener also helped me put things into perspective

    Liked by 7 people

  88. Content Catnip says:

    I love this post Dr Perry, very meaningful. Zen and Tibetan Buddhism has these kinds of deep reflections and philosophical ideas and also the Stoic philosophy, there is so much that is true about it. “The obstacle is the way”…I love that quote, I think it is from one of the Stoics. Don’t fight difficulty because inside of it lays enlightenment

    Liked by 6 people

  89. Dhvani says:

    This is simply out of the world….Thank you for sharing it will be less said.. You wrote it by whole open heart…Many times in life when routine bothers you, you have to find true meaning of your time …that will the time of creation ….relating this meaningful post…loved it

    Liked by 6 people

  91. believeinbetternow says:

    Death shows itself in many ways.

    Clearly, the passing of loved ones reminds us of the short 30,000 days we have to take in every ounce of wonder.

    For me, I realized my only “living” occurred when I was writing (vs. working as an executive). So this week… I resigned. I allowed the death of my past… to fully embrace my remaining 15,000 days on earth.

    Thanks for the reminder, Dr. P!

    Liked by 8 people

  93. Maggie Holbik, CLC, CHN, NNCP, RNT, IPT says:

    I think and both write about this often. I love how death teaches us about life. I share with others how I enJOY funerals or celebrations of life for the fact that they remind me of what is important in life and I am also reminded to cherish the life and time that I do have left. (and not to mention I love those little funeral sandwiches hee hee) …
    There is truly a gift in the understanding we get from seeing the end of life now. I think if more people pondered on the thoughts they might have at the end of their life, it might help them to realize what is important to them now. ie. will one be so happy on their deathbed that they washed their kitchen floor 8000 thousand times or that they kissed and hugged their child and told them they loved them 500 times? 🙂 Something to think about….
    Thanks for this post. I enJOYed it Dr. Perry!

    Liked by 6 people

  94. stumblingfaith says:

    My aunt passed away a few months ago. After 46 years of teaching she finally retired and six months later was gone. I would say her life had much meaning and she helped so many children, adults, families and co-workers in those years. It really made me question my own life though as I always say “when I retire I’ll do x” But what if I retire and I’m gone as quickly as she was? My aunt lived a full life, traveled, had children and grandchildren and was the best person you could know. I hope when I am gone the same can be said of me.

    Liked by 6 people

  95. King Ben's Grandma says:

    How could anyone be bored? I admit to feeling run down and tired when going through difficulties, but I wake up every day wanting to know the HOW and the WHY of everything! There is so much beauty everywhere. And struggles are just opportunities to learn and grow, even if they’re terribly painful.
    Thank you for this reminder!🌻

    Liked by 7 people

  99. Supernatural Hippie says:

    I think in our lives we almost forget about the existence of death. It can be so hidden in modern day to day life. While I think in ancient times people may have been more aware of it. And perhaps even discussed it or prepared for it more, had ceremonies. I think most of us feel immortal. Until we get sick or have a health scare or someone we love dies. The only thing we can be certain of in life is death. So yeah we must try to grasp life and live fully. Great post.

    Liked by 8 people

  100. doubledacres says:

    Once again another thought provoking , powerful post. I love your blogs.
    I was laying in a hospital bed when a doctor told me he didn’t have a good explanation as to why I was still alive. It blew my mind. The thought that I was lucky to be alive changed my life. I never suffered from boredom. Quite the opposite really. Always going never stopping. I never really knew inner peace due to this. Now I am the guy who stops to smell the roses or spends an hour watching a spider spin it’s web. I now enjoy inner peace all because I evaded death.
    Thanks for sharing your thoughts.

    Liked by 9 people

  103. Lesley says:

    Great post. Life is a blessing. I find meaning in praying for people and issues close to my heart. I’m also doing whatever I can to make life better for animals.

    Liked by 5 people

  104. Jon says:

    A great post Dr. Perry! I quit voicing “I’m bored” after my mother pointed out, oh so long ago, that only boring people get bored. Actually, I found after I quit saying it, I quit being bored too.

    Liked by 5 people

  106. Luke Lombardo says:

    Well done..I really liked this quote: “You are alive and because of that you have an obligation to those that have died, to live fully and never take any of the time you have for granted.” I have to remind myself of this one often! Thanks for sharing.

    Liked by 5 people

  107. doubledacres says:

    Once again spot on and well written. I love your work. I have reached the ripe old age of 65. Not much time for boredom now. First there is the battle of the prostate. You find out how one step can make such a difference. Then there is regularity and irregularity. Then I spend so much time walking into a room only to find I can’t remember why I went in there. I walk out of the room only to remember why I was in the room and by the time I get bacK I have done forgot again. No time for boredom.

    Liked by 4 people

  108. JanBeek says:

    Your post is so timely, Dr. Perry. In these days of “physical distancing” while we try to stay socially connected with the use of phone calls, cards & letters, Facebook WordPress, Messaging, and (for some) Twitter, Instagram, and other social media, the subject of life’s meaning and the problems related to boredom crop up more than usual. When our kids were growing up, in our home, the word “bored” was simply not allowed! It was worse than the “F” word!! No excuse for the “B” word … turn on your brain! God gave you creativity, use it! And you said it so well in this post: “You are alive and because of that you have an obligation to those that have died, to live fully and never take any of the time you have for granted.” That obligation includes being grateful for each minute God gives us… and using the talents He has given us to make the world a better place in the corner where we live. This COVID-19 has given all us who are sequestered extra time to contemplate life’s purpose, and as we read and hear the daily news, “Acknowledging that death exists [must be] the catalyst for truly realizing how awe-inspiring life is.” I’m not “stuck” in this corner where I live, I am privileged to be alive and to be in this place. Your post reminds me to “ask [my]self whether there is something more [I] could be doing to honor [my] time.” I pray my blog honors the time I spend on WP, and brightens the corner where my readers are. Your post certainly brightened mine. Thank you, Dr. Perry!

    Liked by 4 people

  109. whisperingverses says:

    Yes, I do feel when one sees death up close, like I did for my Mom, you come back home and value her more than ever, also the fact that you still have life to do so much more to do that one day eventually when you too have to exit , people you leave behind feel your warmth and aura. I hope to be that person when I live and leave that aura when I leave.

    Liked by 4 people

  110. Little Angels of comfort says:

    This blog is wonderful! Please keep spreading the information. So many people suffer from this. 🙏

    Liked by 4 people

  111. Sue says:

    Well said. We are all here for a purpose. WE choose our own path. None better a time than now to reflect on who we are and why we are here and how we plan to go forward. Maybe being introspective is the tough part here. Sometimes it’s hard to look within for the problem, rather than placing blame outside for how one feels/operates.

    Liked by 4 people

  113. Chinaman Creek says:

    Many thanks, especially for “You are alive and because of that you have an obligation to those that have died, to live fully and never take any of the time you have for granted.” A duty to ancestors is a very interesting thought in this context.

    Liked by 3 people

  114. Livia Flair says:

    This spoke to me as I thought about writing another story on my blog. I have been looking for an answer and by reading your post I found it.

    Liked by 3 people

  115. kristina says:

    Life is not easy, but I tend not to complain. There are more people who got loads of problems than mine. We should be thankful for “death”, because it always remind us to live our lives to the best that we can.

    Liked by 3 people

  116. Dawna says:

    I remember receiving the message some years ago that “the Living IS the Purpose of Life, itself”. It IS meant to be lived in every moment and with all the senses.

    Wonderful post, Dr. Perry!

    Liked by 2 people

  117. anagliemefa53 says:

    Now reading this post, though it’s old but it has enlightened me a lot, most often when something bad happens I begin to complain and feel I’m rejected, but it hasn’t crossed my mind to compare what I’m facing with death.
    I’m really inspired by the words in there, thanks Dr Perry

    Liked by 2 people

  118. Gregory Hake says:

    Every encounter with beauty and each time we serve another selflessly affords us with the precious and sacred opportunity to renew our vows with life. Death is not the opposite of life, but the absence of it. Life is abundant, persistent, irrepressible, everlasting. The forms it animates (including us) come and go, but it remains, continuously finding expression and magnification of that which creates life. Excellent consideration as always, Dr. Perry!

    Liked by 3 people

  119. kioratash says:

    Thank you Doc Perry. I agree that it is a personal journey to find meaning, as are all paths of spirit. In the Buddhist way, I watch flowers gathered from my garden pass away. Leaving my heart tender with their impermanence. Your reminder was useful as well.

    Liked by 2 people

  120. wordsandcoffee1 says:

    Well said! After my cancer diagnosis, I felt more aware of the ways we unintentionally take life for granted, and I have a newfound appreciation of the simple everyday moments. This post really resonated with me.

    Liked by 2 people

  121. saymber says:

    I feel like you were talking to me with this post. I feel ashamed reading it. In these past couple of years I have been through a lot – divorce, selling and buying a house, moving across country, my dad going into a nursing home …a complete upheaval of my life. I am slowly putting things back together and have had periods of boredom connected to anxiety and fear. I am hoping a purpose will manifest for me in my new surroundings .

    Liked by 2 people

  122. godley93 says:

    This is beautifully worded and the content is so profound. I used to think that having a blasé attitude about life was cool and would flippantly say things like “life just isn’t that interesting to me.” I didn’t ever really mean it, I just liked the idea of meaning it. It is a total luxury to say such vapid, meaningless things. It is far more interesting to speak to someone who has passion for anything than someone who claims they take no interest in anything and life bores them!

    Liked by 1 person

    • Dr. Eric Perry says:
      Author

      Thank you for your insightful and meaningful comment🙏🏽💫

      Like

  124. kmoser56 says:

    It’s a reality check. Sometimes I just feel like giving up. Sometimes I just need to “stick my head into the sand” and “forget about life for awhile.” (A good novel helps me forget it, I find.). Nonetheless, your words are important to me and to those that I deal with, and I hope to remember them, especially when it gets rough. Thank you, Dr. Perry.

    Liked by 1 person

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