Happy Friday my friend.
Firstly, I don't mean for this email to come across as morbid...you'll understand the title once I get into the meat of the email.
One fact about our physical existence is that it will come to an end.
And for this reason, I often am met with pushback from people via various mediums (whether it be via email, social media etc) as to the point of living a life that is intentional when it comes to health.
The message below is the latest one that I received, and it got me thinking again:
There is so much that I could say to you on this, but I'll attempt to keep it as brief as possible.
In my belief, this is a sad way to look at life.
Because until we actually pass away, we have a life that must be lived.
And I don't believe that a life truly worth living can erase the pursuit of health from it.
If believing that there is no point being healthy because we are going to die, then why not end it all now?
Of course this individual wouldn't – because they would much rather be alive (and understandably so).
This isn't about immortality. Or trying to stretch our lifespan to the age of 200.
We grow, age and die. That's just the reality.
But if the life that we can live now can be manufactured (as much as is in our control) towards one that sees us live in great health, with happiness and with vitality, it is obvious to me that that is the path we should choose.
Thinking that health doesn't really matter due to our mortality is almost like an existential depression.
A state of being that almost resents that fact that our existence isn't infinite, and that our physical body will die off.
But the fact that our physical existence isn't infinite is okay.
And in fact it should lead us to want to prioritise healthy habits, and see what the capabilities of a body that's taken care of are.
Does it require discipline? Sure. Training most days isn't always easy. But it's about showing up regardless.
Show up and prioritise nutrition when others might not be. Get up and train even though it's cold. Go to bed at a good time even though you want to watch an extra episode of Love is Blind.
These are things that help to create a foundation of vitality, and ultimately make life worth living.
And sure, enjoying those lighter hearted moments is a key part of the life experience – but not overindulging is the key.
So if you or anyone you know has a feeling that perhaps aligns with the person's comment, just stop and think.
The quality of your short life matters. It matters a lot.
And I believe it's our duty to find the things that help to derive fulfilment – physical, mental and spiritual – and allow our days on this earth to be fruitful.
And to me prioritising physical health is a key component of this...so lean into it.
Stay healthy,
Jeffrey
ps. if you're getting value from these emails, please drop me a note and let me know. I always enjoy hearing your feedback, and would love to hear what your thoughts are. Have a healthy weekend!