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Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH Food Health Leadership Development Self-Improve

The Philosophy of Health: Eating What You Don’t Want, Drinking What You Don’t Like, and Doing What You’d Rather Not

Introduction:

“The only way to keep your health is to eat what you don’t want, drink what you don’t like, and do what you’d rather not.” This somewhat paradoxical statement, often attributed to the great American humorist and writer Mark Twain, echoes a sentiment that has become increasingly relevant in our modern society. It challenges the very essence of health and wellness and offers a unique perspective on personal discipline, sacrifice, and the role of healthy habits in preserving health.

Understanding the Paradox:

Eating what you don’t want

The idea of “eating what you don’t want” can be seen as a critique of the instant gratification that characterizes modern dietary habits. As Professor Barry Schwartz from Swarthmore College suggests, the “Paradox of Choice” in our diets may be leading to increased stress and decreased happiness (1). While we might prefer a diet rich in sugars, fats, and processed foods, numerous studies have shown that these foods can have detrimental effects on our health (2). Therefore, eating what we ‘don’t want’ – that is, healthier foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains – can often be the key to maintaining good health.

Drinking what you don’t like

Similarly, “drinking what you don’t like” can be seen as a call to limit the consumption of sugary drinks and alcohol. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), excessive consumption of sugary drinks is associated with obesity and other related diseases, such as diabetes and heart disease (3). The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also reports that excessive alcohol use can lead to numerous health problems, including chronic diseases, neurological impairments, and a range of mental health issues (4). Therefore, choosing to drink what we might not initially prefer—like water, tea, or other unsweetened beverages—may be essential for maintaining our health.

Doing what you’d rather not

The sentiment “doing what you’d rather not” is a nod to the importance of regular physical activity, even when it might be uncomfortable or inconvenient. The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity per week, in addition to muscle-strengthening activities on two or more days per week (5). As studies show, maintaining an active lifestyle can help prevent chronic diseases, improve mental health, and extend life expectancy (6).

Conclusion:

While the quote attributed to Mark Twain might seem paradoxical or even negative at first, it provides a profound insight into the essence of maintaining our health. It suggests that the path to health often requires us to step out of our comfort zones and make choices that may not immediately gratify us. In this sense, it is not just a quote about health, but also a commentary on discipline, sacrifice, and long-term thinking.

References:

  1. Schwartz, B. (2004). The Paradox of Choice: Why More Is Less. Harper Perennial.
  2. Mozaffarian, D., Hao, T., Rimm, E. B., Willett, W. C., & Hu, F. B. (2011). Changes in diet and lifestyle and long-term weight gain in women and men. New England Journal of Medicine, 364(25), 2392-2404.
  3. World Health Organization. (2015). Sugary drinks and obesity – Fact sheet.
  4. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020). Fact Sheets – Alcohol Use and Your Health.
  5. U.S. Department of Health & Human Services.
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Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH Self-Improve

How Much Life is Left for You? Adding Value and Leaving a Legacy

Introduction: Life is a precious gift, and every passing moment brings us closer to the inevitable question: How much life is left for us? Contemplating our mortality can be both humbling and thought-provoking. It prompts us to reflect on the value we have added to our lives and the legacy we wish to leave behind. In this article, we delve into these profound questions, encouraging introspection and exploring ways to make our lives more meaningful.

Embracing the Present: The first step in assessing the remaining time we have is to embrace the present moment. Life is a fleeting experience, and dwelling on the past or worrying excessively about the future can detract from the richness of the present. By practicing mindfulness and being fully engaged in our daily lives, we can savor each experience and make the most of the time we have.

Adding Value to Life: Adding value to our lives involves nurturing personal growth, cultivating relationships, and making a positive impact on others. It begins with self-reflection and understanding our passions, talents, and aspirations. Pursuing meaningful goals and continuously learning and developing ourselves can bring fulfillment and purpose to our lives.

Furthermore, investing in relationships and fostering meaningful connections with family, friends, and communities can provide a deep sense of belonging and happiness. Acts of kindness, compassion, and service not only benefit others but also enrich our own lives. Small gestures of love and support can create a ripple effect, making a lasting difference in the lives of those around us.

Leaving a Legacy: While we may not like to dwell on the thought, our time on Earth is finite. Contemplating our legacy can help us realize the impact we can have beyond our own lifetime. Leaving a legacy is not limited to grand achievements or monumental contributions. It can be as simple as passing on wisdom, values, and cherished memories to future generations.

One powerful way to leave a legacy is by sharing our stories and experiences. Our unique perspectives, insights, and lessons learned can inspire and guide others. Writing a memoir, creating a personal blog, or simply having heartfelt conversations with loved ones can ensure that our wisdom and experiences are cherished and carried forward.

Additionally, we can consider making a lasting impact through philanthropy or involvement in causes that align with our values. By supporting organizations or initiatives that address pressing societal issues or promote positive change, we can leave behind a tangible mark on the world.

Conclusion: Reflecting on the time we have left and the value we add to life is a deeply personal journey. It requires introspection, self-discovery, and conscious action. Embracing the present, adding value to our lives through personal growth and meaningful connections, and leaving a legacy that echoes beyond our own existence can bring a profound sense of fulfillment and purpose. Remember, every day is an opportunity to make our lives count and create a meaningful impact in the world.