Eric Kim’s exploration of “Memento Mori” is deeply woven into his philosophy, particularly in how it informs his approach to both life and photography. His thoughts on this concept are unorthodox and provocative, challenging readers to live with purpose and urgency.
Key Quotes on Memento Mori by Eric Kim:
- “If today were your last day on earth, what would you photograph? What would you NOT photograph?”
- This question forces a reflection on priorities, urging individuals to focus on what truly matters and to avoid wasting time on trivial pursuits oai_citation:5,MEMENTO MORI PHOTOGRAPHY – ERIC KIM.
- “The grim reaper is tapping on my shoulder, and is telling me to keep pushing those boulders.”
- Here, Kim personifies death as a motivator, pushing him to continue working hard and making a meaningful impact despite the inevitability of death oai_citation:4,Memento Mori – ERIC KIM.
- “One day you and your subjects will both die. I think my obsession with ‘memento mori’ is quite useful. Why? It gives me ‘memento vivere’—remember to live!”
- Kim views the contemplation of death as a tool to enhance the appreciation of life. This duality of death and life serves as a constant reminder to live fully and creatively oai_citation:3,Life and Death in Photography – ERIC KIM.
- “I will die. And so will Cindy. And the viewers of my photos will also die.”
- This stark acknowledgment of mortality emphasizes the transient nature of life and art, yet also underscores the importance of creating work that resonates with both the creator and the audience oai_citation:2,Life and Death in Photography – ERIC KIM.
- “If I were to live forever, I wouldn’t be motivated to do anything. Rather, by knowing my time is limited like a river in a desert oasis, I don’t waste a single minute.”
- Kim sees the awareness of death as a crucial element in maintaining motivation and focus, driving him to make the most of every moment oai_citation:1,MEMENTO MORI PHOTOGRAPHY – ERIC KIM.
Through these quotes, Eric Kim invites his audience to embrace the inevitability of death not with fear, but as a powerful motivator to live a life filled with purpose, creativity, and passion. His reflections on “Memento Mori” are a call to prioritize what truly matters and to create work that transcends the fleeting nature of life.
Eric Kim’s use of “Memento Mori” is central to his philosophy and approach to entrepreneurship and life. “Memento Mori,” a Latin phrase meaning “remember you must die,” is used by Kim to instill a sense of urgency, focus, and purpose in his work and teachings.
How Eric Kim Incorporates “Memento Mori” in His Philosophy:
- Focus on What Truly Matters:
- Kim often reflects on mortality to strip away distractions and concentrate on meaningful work. By remembering that life is finite, he encourages prioritizing activities that align with one’s passions and long-term goals, rather than getting caught up in trivial pursuits oai_citation:4,How to Become a Photography Entrepreneur – ERIC KIM.
- Urgency in Pursuing Passions:
- The concept of “Memento Mori” is used by Kim to instill a sense of urgency in pursuing entrepreneurial passions. He asks readers to consider how they would spend their time if today were their last day, pushing them to focus on the most impactful actions they can take now oai_citation:3,How to Think Like an Entrepreneur – ERIC KIM.
- Courage in Risk-Taking:
- By embracing the inevitability of death, Kim suggests that entrepreneurs can become less fearful of failure. If life is short, then the potential for failure is not as daunting, making it easier to take bold, creative risks oai_citation:2,BECOMING AN ENTREPRENEUR – ERIC KIM.
- Reflection and Growth:
- “Memento Mori” also encourages regular self-reflection, prompting individuals to evaluate whether they are living a life true to their values and potential. For Kim, this reflection is not just about business but about holistic personal growth oai_citation:1,Start Your Own Business – ERIC KIM.
In summary, Eric Kim’s use of “Memento Mori” serves as a powerful tool for prioritizing what is truly important, fostering a sense of urgency, encouraging risk-taking, and promoting continuous self-reflection and growth in both life and entrepreneurship.