Values Considered: Health

While I will never judge the values others choose to make their highest, I do want to discuss the importance of Health and Fitness from my point of view. And I would love to hear arguments against this to understand why this doesn’t show up on everyone else’s list.

I’m very fortunate to have gone to a high school where physical education and health courses were required. This set me up for a routine of fitness that I still maintain today. While it may seem like a contradiction, as I recover from cancer, I believe it’s because I had a good, healthy foundation based on (mostly) eaten healthfully and exercising regularly.

Health and Fitness are important to me because all of my other values depend on me being healthy to realize them. Without good health, I cannot be the husband I want to be, or the friend I want to be to others. I cannot pursue my career, hobbies or other interests without good health. I would not be able to contribute to my community. Financial security and abundance not only depend on good health, but are threatened by poor health. We all know the financial burden of doctor bills and chronic disease.

Besides being the driving value for me that makes other values possible, it just feels good! I have more vitality and can engage in strenuous exercise without getting winded or worn out.

So, if Health and Fitness are not in your top five values, what is more important for you and why? Please share in the comments below.