A Meaningful Life (2-minute version)

From here.

Twenty-five years after the two-hour talk that became A Meaningful Life, my two-minute version:

1. Outrage, guilt, doom, depression, and anxiety aren’t “meaning.” They make things worse.
   Joy, gratitude, and pragmatism make things better.

2. Be kind and uplifting to nearly everyone. (See p. 355 for why I say “nearly.”)

3. Value and promote compassion, understanding, perspective, and gratitude.

4. Take seriously the plight of those suffering deeply.

5. Don’t let talk of bugs, “humanity,” “the planet,” expected value, or the far future distract you from the clear and present suffering all around us.
   Right here, right now, many individuals are suffering from intentional and preventable cruelty – and you can help.

6. Each sentient individual is “the universe.”
   You literally change “the universe” every time you make someone’s life better.

Inspired by a recent conversation with one of our favorite people.