“Choosing how to live means choosing how to die.”
This statement carries a profound meaning that makes us pause and reflect. Every choice we make in our daily lives shapes not only how we live but also how we approach the inevitable end of life. For those who believe that “I want to decide how my life ends,” the act of living authentically becomes an essential preparation for their final chapter.

Let’s explore the relationship between how we live and how we die, based on the theme “I want to decide how my life ends.”

Living Is About Choosing
Life is a series of choices. What job to take, who to spend time with, what to value—these decisions collectively define who we are. However, not all of these choices are purely personal. They are often influenced by societal expectations, family needs, and the judgments of others.

Even so, pursuing a life that reflects our true selves is essential. Why? Because how we choose to live is closely tied to how we will face our own mortality. When you take control of your life’s choices, you pave the way to face your final moments with fewer regrets and more peace.

The Freedom to Choose How We Die
In recent years, terms like “end-of-life planning” and “death with dignity” have become more common. These reflect a growing recognition of the importance of deciding how we face the end of life. Writing an “ending note,” choosing the style of your funeral, or clarifying your wishes about medical care are all ways to prepare for this final stage.

The freedom to choose how we die requires clarity about our values and priorities. Whether it’s spending your last moments surrounded by family or embarking on one final journey, your ideal way of passing on reflects how you’ve lived your life.

The Potential of Parallel Life
Have you heard of “parallel life”? It’s a lifestyle where individuals pursue multiple careers or interests simultaneously. For example, having a main job while engaging in a side hustle, turning a hobby into a secondary career, or living in multiple locations are all examples of this flexible way of living.

The beauty of parallel life lies in its ability to expand our options. By living through multiple “axes,” we not only discover new possibilities but also create a framework to approach the end of life with freedom and dignity. When every axis of your life reflects who you are, you’re more likely to look back on your journey with fulfillment and pride.

Preparing for Your Final Curtain
How can we ensure that our final chapter aligns with our wishes? The first step is identifying what truly matters to us—whether it’s family, work, hobbies, or dreams. By clarifying these priorities, we gain a clearer understanding of the direction we want our lives to take.

Building open communication with loved ones is also essential. Talking about death may be uncomfortable, but sharing your hopes for the end of life can prevent misunderstandings and help your family honor your wishes.

Finally, evaluate your daily life: Are you being honest with yourself? Are you pushing yourself too hard or spending time on things you don’t care about? By addressing these questions, you can start living in a way that feels truer to who you are.

You Are the Author of Your Life
The desire to decide “how my life ends” can only be realized if we actively choose how to live. While it’s not an easy task, every choice we make today shapes the future we create.

The way we live determines how we will meet the end. The choices are in your hands. Living authentically and preparing for an end that reflects who you are—that journey starts today.

Your life is your own. Only you can decide how to live and how to end it. You are the author of your life’s story, and the main character is none other than you.