Chasing Daylight by Eugene O'Kelly Summary

Chasing Daylight is a memoir by former KPMG CEO Eugene O'Kelly, written after his terminal brain cancer diagnosis at age 53. It chronicles his journey to embrace mortality, find closure through "unwinding" relationships, and prioritize meaningful moments over professional success. The book intertwines reflections on life, death, and spirituality, offering insights on living intentionally even in life’s final chapters.

This book resonates with professionals seeking work-life balance, individuals facing mortality, and anyone interested in existential reflection. It’s particularly valuable for those grappling with career-driven lifestyles or caregivers supporting terminal patients, offering a raw perspective on reconciling ambition with personal fulfillment.

Yes, for its unflinching honesty and transformative message. O’Kelly’s articulate exploration of terminal illness provides universal lessons on prioritizing relationships and mindfulness. Critics praise its practicality, though some note its narrow focus on his privileged perspective.

O’Kelly’s "unwinding" involves intentionally closing relationships with loved ones and colleagues to achieve emotional closure. He schedules final meetings to express gratitude, resolve lingering tensions, and say purposeful goodbyes—a practice he credits for bringing peace and clarity in his final months.

The book challenges conventional success metrics, arguing that true fulfillment comes from mindfulness, relationships, and savoring small joys—not career accolades. O’Kelly shifts from valuing corporate achievements to cherishing “perfect moments” like quiet walks or heartfelt conversations.

• “I learned to live in the moment, even as time was running out.”
• “Success at work meant nothing compared to success as a human being.”

These lines underscore the memoir’s themes of presence and redefined priorities.

Both memoirs explore terminal illness, but O’Kelly focuses on structured acceptance (e.g., unwinding relationships), while Paul Kalanithi emphasizes medical and philosophical inquiry. Chasing Daylight offers more explicit life-strategy frameworks, whereas When Breath delves deeper into existential questions.

Some readers note O’Kelly’s privileged position (CEO wealth, supportive family) limits relatability for those without similar resources. Others argue his rapid acceptance of death feels idealized, glossing over darker emotional struggles common in terminal diagnoses.

The book provides a blueprint for confronting mortality or upheaval by advocating intentional closure, mindfulness, and gratitude. Its lessons on prioritizing relationships over material goals offer comfort to those navigating loss or career changes.

In a post-pandemic era marked by heightened mortality awareness, O’Kelly’s emphasis on mental preparedness and meaningful living resonates strongly. Its message aligns with trends toward minimalism, digital detoxes, and workplace well-being.

These are instances of profound presence—like watching a sunset or sharing laughter—that O’Kelly consciously cultivated. He argues such moments, not grand achievements, define a life well-lived and should be actively sought daily.

O’Kelly describes a nonsectarian spiritual awakening, finding peace through nature, meditation, and accepting life’s impermanence. His reflections blend pragmatic advice with existential insights, avoiding dogma while emphasizing inner harmony.