A useful interpretation of Nietzsche's famous quote is not about religion itself, but the death of a society's unified value system. Without a common set of foundational beliefs, factions can no longer find common ground, leading to the "horrific consequences" of intractable conflict.

Graham adopted philosopher Baruch Spinoza's idea of viewing things "in the aspect of eternity" to teach investors to focus on long-term intrinsic value rather than getting caught up in the market's daily emotional swings, promoting a disciplined, long-term perspective.

Instead of asking the passive question, 'What is the meaning of life?', a more potent tool for self-discovery is to ask, 'What would I be willing to die for?' This reframes meaning as an active declaration of ultimate value, forcing a confrontation with one's deepest convictions and purpose.

Your core values aren't just abstract principles you admire; they are revealed by the concrete things you willingly give up time, ego, or comfort for. Observing your sacrifices provides a clearer, more honest assessment of what truly drives you.

Facing the finitude of life can pivot your motivation system. Instead of chasing external rewards like money or status, which seem meaningless in the face of death, you become driven by an intrinsic desire to discover the absolute ceiling of your capabilities.

Executive Coach Matt Spielman defines success as a two-step process: first, having the self-awareness to listen to one's inner voice, and second, possessing the courage to act on that insight. This framework separates internal discovery from the external action required to live an authentic life.

A business decision aims to gamify and optimize a specific outcome. A principle decision is based on core values, made without knowing the outcome, to be remembered favorably regardless of the result. Sticking to principles may mean losing a short-term battle but ultimately wins the war by building trust.

The paradox of values-based work is that while it often involves difficult conversations or actions, it ultimately provides energy and fulfillment. Conversely, taking the easy way out (e.g., avoiding conflict) feels simpler in the moment but leaves you feeling hollowed out and depleted.

Don't try to invent aspirational values. Your true values are already embedded from childhood, often as a reaction for or against your experiences. The process is one of self-excavation—analyzing consistent behaviors during life's highs and lows—not wishful thinking.