"La vida es larga si sabes cómo usarla."

Life is long when we know how to make the most of our time. It’s a reminder that our perception of time can shift dramatically based on how we choose to live each day. If we fill our days with meaningful activities and cherish our moments, our lives can feel rich and fulfilling. On the contrary, if we waste our time on meaningless pursuits, life can seem fleeting and unsatisfying.

Seneca, a Roman philosopher, penned this idea around 49 AD. He was addressing the common grievance that life’s too short—a sentiment that’s echoed through the ages. Seneca argued that it's not about the length of life, but how we use the life we have. He believed that if you live wisely, life is ample.

Let’s bring this idea to life with a modern example. Think about a person who’s always rushing. Imagine Sarah, a marketing executive. She’s perpetually busy, darting from meeting to meeting, constantly checking her phone, and never really present. Despite her packed schedule, she often feels like she’s not achieving anything meaningful. If Sarah paused and reassessed her priorities, she might realize that by focusing on what truly matters to her—like spending quality time with her family, pursuing her passion for painting, or simply taking moments to relax—her life could feel much more satisfying. Even if her days were still busy, they’d be filled with activities that enrich her, making her feel like she’s living fully.

So, how can you apply this wisdom? Start by reflecting on what truly matters to you. Make a list of activities that feel meaningful and fulfilling. Prioritize them. It sounds simple, but it requires conscious effort. Set aside time each day for these activities, even if it’s just a few minutes. Be present in the moment. Avoid getting lost in the hustle and bustle. Sometimes, it’s about saying ‘no’ to things that don’t add value to your life. This can be hard—especially if you’re a people pleaser—but it’s crucial.

Imagine this scenario: you’re at a coffee shop with a friend. You both sit with your coffees, but instead of scrolling through your phone or worrying about your next appointment, you fully engage in the conversation. You listen, you laugh, and you share. That hour might seem like a small chunk of your day, but it’s filled with real connection and joy. This is how you stretch the richness of time. It’s not about having more hours, but about what you do with the hours you have.

And here’s a relatable story: I once had a neighbor, Mr. Thompson, who spent years working tirelessly at his job. He hardly took vacations, always aiming for that next promotion. After retirement, he realized he didn’t have many memories outside of work. He decided to change that. He started gardening, a passion he’d neglected for years. He spent time with his grandchildren, teaching them how to plant flowers and vegetables. Those moments, he said, gave him more satisfaction than years at his desk. Mr. Thompson’s life seemed to expand as he filled his days with what truly mattered to him.

So, next time you feel like life is slipping through your fingers, take a step back. Ask yourself if you’re truly living or just existing. By making conscious choices and cherishing the present, you might find that life is long enough—if you know how to use it.