"J'ai appris que gagner sa vie n'est pas la même chose que faire sa vie"

Living your life means more than just going to work, earning money, and paying bills. There’s this deeper sense of fulfillment and joy that comes from pursuing your passions, connecting with loved ones, and experiencing the world around you. This nugget of wisdom tells us that while making a living—earning money to support ourselves—is important, it’s not the whole picture. Making a life is about finding meaning and happiness in what we do every day.

This idea has been around forever, but it’s especially relevant in today’s hustle culture. Back in the day, many people worked simply to survive, focusing on basic needs. But now, we’re bombarded with messages about chasing success and wealth, sometimes at the expense of our well-being and happiness. That’s why this concept resonates so much.

Let’s take Sarah, for example. She’s a high-powered lawyer in New York City, pulling in a six-figure salary, living in a fancy apartment, and yet, she feels empty. Her days are consumed by endless meetings, court cases, and the constant pressure to bill more hours. But on weekends, she loves going out into nature, hiking and taking photos. Those moments, though fleeting, make her feel alive and connected. It’s only when Sarah takes a step back, reassesses her priorities, and decides to cut back on work to spend more time outdoors, that she begins to make a life. She may earn less, but she’s infinitely happier.

So, how can you apply this to your own life? First, figure out what truly brings you joy. Is it a hobby, spending time with family, or maybe traveling? Whatever it is, carve out time for it. Don’t just fit it in where you can—make it a priority. You might need to set boundaries at work or even consider a job that’s less demanding but more fulfilling. It’s all about balance.

Imagine you’re at a coffee shop with a friend, and they’re feeling stuck in their job. They make good money but are miserable. You’d probably tell them to take a break, explore their passions, or maybe even take that dream trip they’ve been talking about for years. You’d remind them that life is short, and it’s not just about the grind.

Think about a time when you felt truly content. Maybe it was a lazy Sunday morning spent with a good book, or a spontaneous road trip with friends. Those are the moments that make life rich and rewarding. It’s not about how much money you have in the bank, but the experiences and connections that fill your days.

So, next time you’re caught up in the daily grind, remember to step back and ask yourself: Am I just making a living, or am I making a life? Prioritize what brings you joy and fulfillment, and you’ll find that life becomes much more meaningful. It’s not always easy, but in the end, it’s worth it. So go on, make a life, not just a living.