As someone deeply invested in the world of finance, health was a topic I kept putting off discussing. But the truth is, it deserves center stage. While wealth management often takes the spotlight, health is equally, if not more, important—yet we frequently neglect it.
In the last few months, I have had experiences, that has made me relook at my priorities, with health taking a front seat now.
Health vs. Wealth: A Comparison
During a recent discussion with friends, two intriguing ideas stood out:
- Wealth Growth can be put on Autopilot: Once wealth crosses a certain threshold & is well-managed, it continues to grow with minimal intervention. Even if you withdraw amount from your growing corpus, as long as the rate of withdrawal is lower than rate of growth, your wealth will keep on growing. And you will end up passing it on to your future generations. But not your health. Health can’t be put on autopilot.
- Health Can’t be Outsourced: You can give your wealth to a professionals, who can take care of it for you. Perhaps do a better job than you. But you can’t outsource your health. You have to put in your time, your work. There is not shortcut to it.
This stark difference highlights why prioritizing health is crucial. Unlike wealth, health deteriorates without active maintenance. It’s a lifelong & daily responsibility.
My Journey of Neglect and Realization
At 35, I’ve experienced the highs and lows of managing my health. There were phases where I was committed to fitness—so much so that running 20 kilometers felt effortless. But then, life happened. Poor planning and an overwhelming focus on building my business led to extended periods of inactivity. The effects were inevitable. Today, my knees remind me of their importance even during a simple 2-kilometer run, and I often find myself short of breath during sports—things that used to bring me joy.
This realization hit hard. It became clear that investing time in my health wasn’t just important; it was essential. I’ve since started treating health as a non-negotiable commitment—just like any sound financial investment.
Looking at Health Using Eisenhower Matrix
I think most of us have a tendency to get lost in the urgents of life, and neglect the importants. In the Eisenhower matrix, health for me should be in Important-Not Urgent box. But becuase urgent takes priority on a normal day, I kept on neglecting it. Till it came to the point of Important-Urgent. I dont want to make this mistake again.
My Approach to Investing In Health Now
- Small SIPs – Patiently, Consistently: I now dedicate 30-40 minutes, 4-6 days a week, to activities that improve my physical well-being. My target is not a chiselled, awe striking physique but a healthy lifestyle that ensures I can enjoy things I do.
- Diversify – For a Balanced & Happier Life: I make sure I dont just stick to one thing. I play some sports once or twice a week, run once or twice a week, and do yoga or mobility or strength training a couple of times. This keeps the boredom away, and gives the much needed rests as well.
Also, just like SIPs of finance, the results aren’t immediate. This is a lifetime SIP for your body, and the returns come in the form of better energy, resilience, and overall quality of life.
The Bigger Picture
Imagine this: you work tirelessly, accumulate significant wealth, and reach a stage where you’re ready to enjoy the fruits of your labor. But poor health stands in the way, forcing you to spend your time and wealth in hospitals instead of pursuing your passions.
While certain health challenges, like accidents or unforeseen illnesses, are beyond our control, much of our well-being is within our hands. Small, consistent efforts can vastly improve our quality of life and help us avoid preventable issues.
A Balanced Perspective
Money is important. Not doubt there. But it’s not the only currency that matters. Time is the ultimate currency, and nothing consumes it faster than bad health. By investing in your health today, you ensure that you can enjoy the wealth and time you’ve worked so hard to earn.
Start small but stay consistent. Your future self will thank you.