Rippling Exercise

A practice of recognizing and cultivating the concentric circles of influence you create that may affect others for years, even generations. Rippling refers to the fact that each of us passes on something from our life experience—traits, wisdom, guidance, virtue, or comfort—to others, who then pass it on further, like ripples in a pond. This idea offers a potent answer to meaninglessness by recognizing that we can leave something of ourselves beyond our knowing.

Source: Described in 'Staring at the Sun' by Irvin D. Yalom. Yalom describes rippling as one of the most powerful ideas to counter death anxiety and distress at life's transience.

How to practice

1. 1Reflect on the ways you influence others, both consciously and unconsciously
2. 2Consider what traits, wisdom, guidance, or values you pass on to others
3. 3Recognize that your influence extends beyond your immediate awareness
4. 4Notice how others have influenced you and recognize those ripples
5. 5Contemplate how your acts of caring, help, and love continue through others
6. 6Allow the awareness of rippling to reduce death anxiety by recognizing your continued impact
7. 7Focus on living in ways that create positive ripples you can be proud of

Based on literature