The Risk You're Taking By Not Investing In Your Health
Intelligent Investing: Become the Warren Buffet of Your Own Health
Last week I left you with lots of information on why we need carbs and how to build muscle. This week I was planning on continuing that theme, but then little quote popped up on my Instagram and I just could not let it go:
“The most dangerous risk of all is the risk of spending your life not doing what you want on the bet you can buy yourself the freedom to do it later.”
One of the most common areas we all take that risk in? Not investing in your health, fitness, and body.
Why Don’t We Invest In Our Health?
As a personal fitness trainer and nutrition coach, I hear two reasons above all else that people can't invest in a new health and fitness routine.
"I don't have the time."
"I don't have the money."
Out of respect I usually agree that yes, it does take time, and yes, it can take money to be healthy and fit. And then I reassure them that definitely, it would undoubtedly be easier at the moment to NOT to prioritize their health. And, in some instances, these are completely valid issues.
But for some of us, it’s time to change our perspective and throw out those excuses when it comes to our health.
Your health is more than a hobby: it’s an investment.
The quote on Instagram spoke to me, and not just for the obvious "do what you love" mentality. It also says something else: Your health is an INVESTMENT. You can prioritize everything else before your health, but if you neglect yourself enough you almost certainly will not be able to enjoy the freedom you've worked so hard for later.
You’re the only person that can invest the time, energy, and money into your own health. And that's devastatingly important—because at the end of the day you will not be able to buy your health back.
Tomorrow, tomorrow...I'll love you tomorrow.
We all have those days when we promise ourselves we’ll “do it tomorrow.” I’m too busy today. I’ll start a diet tomorrow. I’ll workout tomorrow. We put ourselves on the back burner over and over again. Today is the day to take care of yourself.
Not just for the now, but for the long term. Every time you workout today, eat healthy today, and take space for your mental health right now, you’re creating a chance for a return that you won’t be able to see just yet.
Just like it’s tough to play the “long game” with investing money, it can be challenging to refuse that chocolate chip muffin in the moment because you don’t necessarily get an immediate return.
Investing in your health is worth it.
I get it, because let’s face it: it'’s hard work to prioritize your health and make time for you. Starting a new routine and committing to making healthy changes can seem nearly impossible.
It’s hard to show up and workout even when you’re already used to it being a part of your normal routine! Making your health a priority isn’t easy, but it’s worth it.
How to become one of those "healthy people" through Health Investment
Looking at health as an investment is an interesting analogy because if you spend all your time thinking you’ll take care of yourself tomorrow, you might not make it to the “tomorrow” you’re promising yourself.
You can’t expect your retirement account to hit your magic number when you begin saving at 45 years old instead of 25.
Just like when you invest your money in the account and it starts to compound and grow over time, so will your health. The sooner you make a commitment to it, the sooner you’re on the path to “health wealth.”
Over time, your body adapts to being more and more active and healthy so that maintenance is a little easier. You can invest the same amount on day 600 that you did on day 1 and it starts to go a little farther. The interest starts to compound over time and eventually you’re one of “those healthy people.”
We have to start early if we want to get the return on our time and energy in the gym.
Investing in Your Health Can Be a Money Saver (Not Just Life Saver)
Gym memberships, healthy food, fitness classes… they all cost money. Often times they’re seen as “expensive” but sickness and medications and doctor’s visits are also pretty pricey. Investing in your health now can save you money in the future, and even make a positive impact on your overall finances, like:
Reducing the number of doctors visits
Lowering the risk of heart diseases and cancers
Improving your immune system
Reducing health insurance costs
It’s hard to carve out the time in your day to prioritize a workout or cooking a healthy meal, just like it’s hard to initially give up that slice of your paycheck for your retirement account… but it has to be done, or you know you’ll find yourself in a much tougher situation down the road.
Plus, there are ways to invest in your health that won’t set you back—and cooking your own food and walking instead of taking an Uber a few blocks will help boost your health, and bank account.
How to Invest in Your Health Without Breaking the Bank (or Your Back)
Eat More Vegetables
Vegetables are one of the cheapest things you can purchase, especially when in bulk, and especially when frozen. Even though the frozen brussels sprouts may not have the crunch you love, if you’re more likely to eat more vegetables when you don’t have to buy them weekly, purchasing a load of frozen veggies every month is worth it.
Get More Sleep
We all know it: getting at least 7 hours of sleep a night is incredibly important for our health. Seven hours (plus) is a must for hormone function and a healthy immune system, and you need that immune system to keep you from those expensive doctors visits!
Studies show that people who don't get quality sleep or enough sleep are more likely to get sick after being exposed to a virus, such as the common cold. No one has the time (or money for that)! Exchanging phone time for serious rest will give a boost to your overall health.
Use Free Online Workouts:
Like many of us these days, online workouts are the only option we have. If you’re trying invest in your health, and not use up your savings, stick to free workouts that you can find on Youtube or Instagram instead of buying subscriptions. Or, make your own workout plan with classic moves like push-ups, planks, and jumping jacks. Sounds simple, but it’s effective.
Meditate or Journal
Mental health is just as important as physical, and the two affect one another. Journalling and meditation can help with depression, anxiety, or just everyday stress. You can buy a notebook for a few dollars, and follow along with YouTube meditations for free.
Drink Water
With about 60% of your body made of water, hydrating is an easy, and usually free activity that is great for your overall health. It also can help with weight loss and maintenance, two things are will impact your longterm health.
You’re the only person that can invest the time, energy, and money into your own health.
So, you have to invest in your health, all the time. You have to put in the time, the energy, and the financial expense to keep your body on your side. And then “tomorrow” comes, you have a body that will allow you to do all the things you’ve dreamed of doing.
It is cliche, but health really is the best investment, so take those steps to invest into your health right now!
Not sure what the next step is in “investing in your health?” Feeling desperate to finally lose those 10 to 15 pounds that always seem to creep back on?
Guess what: I want to help you! Financial wealth is simply not enough. Let's spend 10 minutes to talk about how you can reach your greatest level of "health wealth” possible!
About Ashley:
Ashley is a Pilates instructor and personal trainer in NYC who specializes in biomechanics and exercise nutrition for women. She uses the science behind exercise physiology to empower her in-person and remote clients to lead healthy, happy lives. Her passion project is sharing this information through her blog, which focuses on Lifestyle, Exercise, Active recovery, and Nutrition and serves as the backbone for her online health and fitness programs. She aims to get this information into the hands of as many women as possible so they can feel stronger and more confident in their bodies! Follow her Instagram page for daily fitness and nutrition tips!