"Vis tout ce que tu peux c'est une erreur de ne pas le faire"

Living fully, embracing every moment, and squeezing the juice out of life – that’s the essence of the quote. It’s about grabbing opportunities as they come and not holding back. Life is short, and spending it cautiously or fearfully means you might miss out on the experiences that make it rich and meaningful.

This idea has roots in various philosophies and has been echoed through the ages. Think about the post-World War II era, for example. People had seen so much destruction and loss that there was a collective urge to live more passionately and with greater intensity. There was this recognition that life can change in an instant, so why waste any part of it?

Now, let's bring this closer to home. Imagine Sarah, a corporate lawyer in her mid-thirties. She’s always played it safe, sticking to her career path, meticulously planning her future. One day, she's offered a chance to work pro bono in a community in South America. It’s a big shift from her comfort zone. She hesitates, thinking about her stable job and the security it brings.

But then, she remembers the essence of living fully. She takes the plunge. The decision changes her life. She finds joy in the work, learns a new language, and forms bonds with people that shape her outlook forever. This is living all you can. Sarah could have stayed in her bubble, but by stepping out, she experienced growth and joy she didn’t know she was missing.

So how do you apply this wisdom? Start small. Say yes more often. When a friend invites you to try something new – a dance class, a hiking trip, an art exhibit – go for it. Push through the initial resistance. These new experiences can add color and depth to your life.

Do you want to travel? Plan that trip. Save up, make it a priority. It doesn’t have to be extravagant. Even a weekend getaway can recharge you and open your mind.

Think about your passions. Have you always wanted to write a book, learn guitar, or cook like a chef? Dive in. Set aside time each week to do things just for the joy of it. They don’t have to be productive in the traditional sense. They just need to make you feel alive.

Imagine you’re at a coffee shop, and your friend, let’s call her Jane, is talking about her day-to-day grind. She feels stuck, like she's just going through the motions. You remind her of the quote, urging her to shake things up. Maybe she signs up for those pottery classes she’s always talked about. Maybe she plans a road trip with her kids, exploring new places and creating memories. It’s these little shifts, these small yeses, that can add up to a richer, more fulfilling life.

Living fully isn’t about being reckless. It’s about being open to life’s possibilities, taking calculated risks, and cherishing the journey. It’s about treating each day as an adventure, even in the mundane. So, don’t hold back. Live all you can – it really is a mistake not to.