Memento Mori: How Remembering Your Mortality Can Benefit Your College Experience

January 9, 2023

As college students, it can be easy to get caught up in the day-to-day demands and distractions of academic and personal life. But it's important to remember that life is finite and that each day is a precious opportunity to make the most of your time and pursue your passions and goals. That's where the concept of memento mori, or "remember that you have to die," can be a powerful reminder. In this article, we'll explore the benefits of embracing memento mori and how it can help you achieve success in your academic and personal life. Whether you're struggling to stay motivated or just looking for ways to make the most of your time in college, this ancient wisdom has much to offer.

The Skull as a Reminder of Our Own Mortality: A Look at the History and Meaning of the Memento Mori.

A memento mori is an object or reminder of death, often in the form of a skull. It is meant to remind the viewer of their own mortality and to encourage them to live their life in a way that is meaningful and fulfilling. The use of a skull as a memento mori dates back to ancient Rome, where it was common to keep a skull on one's desk as a reminder of the transience of life. In more recent times, the skull has been used in art and literature as a symbol of death and mortality.

Memento Mori as a Motivational Tool

One of the most obvious benefits of memento mori is its ability to serve as a motivational tool. When you remember that your time on earth is limited, you may feel more inclined to pursue your goals with purpose and intention. This can be especially useful in college, where there are often many distractions and demands on your time. By reminding yourself to make the most of each day, you can stay focused and motivated as you work towards your academic and personal objectives.

Memento Mori and Critical Thinking Skills

In addition to serving as a motivational tool, memento mori can also help you develop critical thinking skills. When you remember that your time on earth is limited, you may be more inclined to seek out new experiences and knowledge. This can help you challenge your own assumptions and beliefs and think more critically about the world around you. This is an important skill in college, where you are often exposed to new ideas and perspectives that can challenge your preconceived notions. By embracing memento mori, you can learn to think more deeply and critically about the world around you.

Memento Mori and Personal Growth

Embracing memento mori can also help you grow personally and professionally. By constantly seeking out new experiences and knowledge, you can become a more well-rounded and open-minded individual. This can help you build strong relationships and make valuable connections, which can be crucial in achieving success in your career. Additionally, by remembering that your time on earth is limited, you may be more inclined to live in the present moment and appreciate the people and experiences around you. This can help you cultivate a sense of gratitude and well-being that can serve you well throughout your life.

Memento Mori and Practical Applications

While memento mori is often associated with philosophical or spiritual matters, it can also have practical applications in your college experience. For example, recognizing that your time on earth is limited may motivate you to set goals for yourself and plan for your future. This can help you make the most of your time in college and set yourself up for success after graduation. Additionally, remembering that life is finite may encourage you to take risks and pursue your passions, knowing that you only have a limited time to do so.

Embracing Memento Mori

So, how can you start embracing memento mori in your college experience? Here are a few suggestions:

• Set aside time each day to reflect on your goals and priorities. What do you want to achieve in college and in life? How can you make the most of each day to work towards those goals?

• Seek out new experiences and knowledge. This can be as simple as taking a new class or volunteering for an organization you've never worked with before.

• Practice gratitude and appreciation for the present moment. Take time each day to appreciate the people and experiences around you, and express your gratitude to those who have helped you along the way.

• Make a plan for your future. While it's important not to get too caught up in the future, having a clear sense of your goals and how to achieve them can help you make the most of your time in college and beyond.

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Memento mori, or "remember that you have to die," is a powerful reminder to make the most of your time and opportunities. By embracing this concept, you can stay motivated, develop critical thinking skills, and grow personally and professionally. So next time you're feeling overwhelmed or uncertain in college, take a moment to remember that your time on earth is limited, and use that reminder to stay focused and motivated as you pursue your passions and goals.

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