Live Well

“Heaven and earth are eternal, not because they live for themselves, but because they live for all things.” — Laozi

In every corner of the world, the notion of living well is celebrated, revered, and endlessly pursued. From the ancient texts of philosophers to the everyday wisdom shared around dinner tables, humanity has always been deeply concerned with what it means to lead a good life. Yet, within Chinese culture, this idea resonates with a particular depth and intensity, one that is as pervasive as it is profound.

When we consider the phrase “live well” in the context of Chinese culture, it becomes clear that this is not merely an aspiration for personal happiness or material success. Instead, it encapsulates a life lived in accordance with values that transcend the individual. It is about maintaining harmony with the universe, honouring one’s ancestors, and fulfilling one’s duties to family and society. To live well, in this sense, is to be in tune with the natural order of things, to contribute to the collective well-being, and to uphold the moral virtues that have been passed down through generations.

This profound emphasis on living well is woven into the very fabric of Chinese life. Central to this is the Confucian ideal of ren (benevolence or humaneness), which calls for living in a way that fosters harmony in one’s relationships and society. Confucianism teaches that living well is closely tied to the fulfilment of one’s duties within the family and the community. The concept of xiao (filial piety) plays a crucial role here, emphasising the importance of respecting and caring for one’s parents and ancestors. To live well, then, is to carry forward these values, ensuring that one’s actions reflect honour and respect for those who came before and those who will follow.

But living well in Chinese culture goes beyond interpersonal relationships. Daoist thought adds another layer, emphasising the importance of living in harmony with the Dao—the fundamental principle that underlies and unites all things in the universe. According to Daoism, to live well is to align oneself with the natural flow of life, embracing simplicity, humility, and non-contention. It is about finding balance and peace within oneself and with the world around us, rather than striving against it.

Buddhist influences further deepen this concept by introducing the idea of reducing suffering through compassion, mindfulness, and wisdom. Living well, from a Buddhist perspective, involves not only seeking personal enlightenment but also helping others to alleviate their suffering. It’s a call to live a life that is not only fulfilling but also compassionate and connected to the broader cycle of life, death, and rebirth.

This multifaceted understanding of what it means to live well is reflected in Chinese arts, literature, and daily practices. It is a recurring theme that encourages individuals to reflect on their place within the larger cosmos, urging them to live in a way that is virtuous, balanced, and harmonious, even in the face of life’s inevitable challenges. When individuals in Chinese culture speak of living well, they are often invoking these deep, interwoven ideals that connect the personal with the universal, the present with the past, and the self with society.

But whilst Chinese culture may emphasise this idea with particular fervour, the desire to live well is a universal one, echoed in different forms across the world. In Japan, the concept of ikigai speaks to finding purpose and balance in life—a reason to get up in the morning that aligns with one’s values and the needs of the world. In Korea, the notion of jeong emphasises deep emotional bonds and loyalty, urging people to live well by nurturing relationships and maintaining harmony in their communities.

Among Indigenous peoples, particularly those of North America, the concept of living well is profoundly tied to the principle of thinking seven generations ahead. This philosophy teaches that the decisions we make today should benefit not just the current generation but also the generations to come. Living well, in this context, is about stewardship—caring for the earth, the community, and the cultural traditions in a way that ensures sustainability and well-being far into the future. This worldview emphasises interconnectedness, responsibility, and a deep respect for all forms of life, reflecting a holistic approach to well-being that transcends the individual and embraces the collective.

Western cultures, too, have their own interpretations. Ancient Greek philosophy offers the concept of eudaimonia, often translated as “flourishing.” Aristotle taught that to live well was to fulfil one’s potential, to live a life of virtue and reason, achieving a state of balance and happiness that goes beyond mere pleasure. Meanwhile, in the Christian tradition, living well has often been associated with following a moral path, embodying virtues like love, compassion, and charity.

Despite these cultural differences, the core idea remains remarkably consistent: living well is not just about individual satisfaction. It is about aligning oneself with something greater—whether that be a moral code, a spiritual path, or a sense of duty to others. It is about living a life that is not just good, but also good for others, and in doing so, finding a deeper sense of purpose and fulfilment.

In exploring these diverse perspectives, we find that whilst the expression of living well may vary from one culture to another, the underlying sentiment is a shared one. It reflects a common human aspiration to lead lives that are not only meaningful but also connected to the broader fabric of society and the natural world.

In the end, to live well is to recognise the interconnectedness of all things and to strive for a balance that honours both the self and the collective. It is a timeless and universal ideal, one that continues to inspire and challenge us, no matter where we are in the world.