How Much Time Do You Have Left to Live? Working The Math Backwards Gives You A General Window Of Time Left. A Reflection on Life and Purpose
By Dr. Noble Nwigwe, CEO, Remote Practice Managers, Inc.
Life is a journey with a definite endpoint. While no one knows the exact duration of their time on earth, we can estimate an upper limit to frame our perspective. Suppose we assume that every human being has a maximum lifespan of 100 years. This assumption is, of course, devoid of unpredictable factors such as disease, accidents, violence, and other unforeseen circumstances. But for the sake of contemplation, let us work with this finite boundary.
Understanding the Time We Have Left
If you are 50 years old today, you have already lived more than half your assumed life expectancy. If you are 70, you have used up 70% of your time, leaving just 30 years remaining. However, not all of these years will be spent in full health and vitality. Conservatively, subtracting 10 years to account for the natural decline in mobility and strength, an individual at 70 may have only 20 years of active, independent life left.
This perspective forces us to reevaluate our priorities. If you have 20 or 30 years left, how do you wish to spend them? Are they to be spent in anger, bitterness, and division? Or in love, kindness, and the pursuit of peace and happiness? Why spend your active remaining years on trivial matters?
The Urgency of Love Over Hate
The world today is filled with conflict, resentment, and unnecessary divisions. People spend their limited time on earth causing harm, spreading negativity, and failing to appreciate the brevity of life. But if we truly reflect on the limited number of years left, would we still choose hostility over harmony? Would we prioritize being right over being kind? Would we continue to devalue the dignity of others simply because we think we are superior in some way?
When we recognize that every human being is on a one-way journey toward the inevitable, perhaps we would reconsider our actions. The person you despise, the neighbor you refuse to help, the stranger you choose to ignore—all have limited time on this planet, just like you. What if, instead of hatred, we extended love? Instead of division, we fostered unity? Instead of conflict, we sought understanding?
A Call for Conscious Living
The reality of a finite life should not evoke fear but rather inspire purpose. It should push us to be more intentional about how we treat others. If you knew someone had only ten years left, would you waste time arguing with them over trivial matters? If you had 20 years left, would you spend it chasing meaningless pursuits, or would you invest it in creating joy, peace, and positive impact?
The leaders of the world, governments, and individuals alike should reflect on this. If our time is limited, why not use it to make life better for everyone? Why waste energy harming others when we could be building bridges, nurturing relationships, and leaving behind a legacy of goodness?
As long as we exist, we have the power to choose. Choose love. Choose kindness. Choose to make your remaining time on earth meaningful.
About the Author
Dr. Noble Nwigwe is the CEO of Remote Practice Managers, Inc. A visionary leader and thought-provoking writer, Dr. Nwigwe believes in the power of human connection and purposeful living. Through his work in healthcare consulting and his philosophical reflections, he encourages individuals and organizations to embrace clarity, compassion, and intentionality in all aspects of life.
Life Span Reflections and the time we have left what would you do if you know your exact number?