An aim in life is the only fortune worth finding.

"An aim in life is the only fortune worth finding." These words by Robert Louis Stevenson capture the profound truth that the true wealth of life lies not in the accumulation of material riches, but in the pursuit of a purpose, a direction, a calling that drives us forward. Stevenson’s reflection speaks to the essence of what it means to live with intention—to have a vision of who we are and what we seek to accomplish in our time on earth. A life without aim is like a ship adrift at sea, lacking a course to steer it. But with a clear aim, we are anchored to something greater than ourselves, and every action becomes meaningful in the pursuit of that purpose.

This idea resonates deeply with the philosophers of antiquity. Aristotle, in his work Nicomachean Ethics, taught that the highest good is achieved through the pursuit of a purposeful life. He argued that human beings are fulfilled not by fleeting pleasures or external wealth, but by the cultivation of virtue and the dedication to a noble aim. For Aristotle, a life well-lived is one that seeks the highest truth and good, and the pursuit of this good is the truest form of happiness. Like Stevenson, Aristotle believed that a life with aim—whether in philosophy, politics, or art—brings meaning and lasting fulfillment, while a life without aim leads to emptiness and regret.

In the life of Alexander the Great, we find a striking example of a man who found fortune in the pursuit of a singular aim: the creation of a vast empire. Despite his early death at the age of 32, Alexander's determination to spread Greek culture, conquer lands, and challenge his own limits left an indelible mark on history. His vision was clear: to unite the world under a single banner of Greek influence. The empire he built was his fortune, not in the gold he amassed, but in the legacy he left behind. Like Stevenson’s quote suggests, Alexander's aim was his greatest wealth, for it shaped his life and actions, giving them purpose and meaning. His story reminds us that the pursuit of a noble goal can create a legacy far beyond what material riches can ever provide.

Consider also the life of Mahatma Gandhi, whose aim was to liberate India from British rule through nonviolent resistance. Gandhi’s life was dedicated to a singular purpose: to achieve freedom for his people, not through violence or force, but through the strength of truth and peace. Like Alexander, Gandhi's aim was his true fortune—it guided him through immense struggles, personal sacrifices, and moments of doubt. Despite facing imprisonment and public opposition, his unwavering dedication to his aim made him one of the most influential figures of the 20th century. Gandhi’s life underscores Stevenson’s point: the aim in life is the greatest fortune, for it gives purpose to every action, no matter how difficult.

In contrast, consider the philosophy of the Hedonists, who sought the pleasures of life without regard for long-term purpose. Epicurus, for instance, taught that the pursuit of pleasure was the highest good, yet without a purposeful aim, this pursuit can easily devolve into excess and emptiness. The Hedonists sought a life of sensory indulgence, but without a deeper aim or moral compass, their pleasures were fleeting and often led to greater dissatisfaction. This highlights the wisdom in Stevenson’s words: the aim in life is not simply to chase after transient pleasures, but to seek out something greater that will provide lasting meaning and fulfillment.

The lesson from Stevenson’s quote is one of direction and intentionality. We may find ourselves wandering, chasing after external wealth or momentary satisfactions, but these will not bring us the true fortune that comes from living with a clear purpose. To live with aim—whether it is to create, serve, love, or learn—is to invest in something that gives our life meaning, something that transcends the fleeting nature of time and the accumulation of possessions. The fortune in our lives lies not in what we possess, but in the impact we have on the world, and the growth we experience as we strive toward our goals.

In practical terms, we can apply this wisdom by reflecting on our own aims in life. What is it that we truly seek? What purpose guides us, and how can we align our daily actions with that higher aim? Whether it is in our personal lives, careers, or contributions to society, we must strive to pursue something that brings us meaning—a mission that challenges us and helps us grow, regardless of how long or short our lives may be. By setting our sights on a higher purpose, we can transform every moment into a step toward our true fortune, one that endures beyond the material world and leaves a legacy for future generations.

Let us then embrace the aim in life, understanding that it is not the number of years we live, but the meaning we create through purposeful action that truly defines our existence.