I chose to pursue the field of economics not because of a fascination with the intricate workings of the supply and demand curve, but rather due to the realization that observing how individuals manage scarce resources provides profound insights into human behavior.
In Western society, time and money emerge as the most constrained resources. Our decisions concerning these invaluable assets not only influence our relationships and social status but also fundamentally shape our identity and path. Amidst the adages about old dogs and the inevitability of change, one constant endures—our continuous balancing act of these two limited resources.
Abraham Maslow introduced a hierarchy of needs that form the basis of human motivation. According to his framework, individuals advance towards improved well-being and potential happiness by meeting successive levels of needs, starting from basic physiological requirements to safety, love, and self-esteem. Beyond these stages lies the peak of self-actualization, a realm of deep fulfillment and enlightenment. While Maslow’s theory is valid, it almost resembles a recipe for a complex dip rather than a comprehensive life philosophy.
Survival is unquestionably a prerequisite for a satisfying life; however, it is all too easy to get trapped in mere survival mode, overlooking the essence of true living. Though this struggle may be less evident in peaceful settings like the North Coast compared to bustling metropolises like Manhattan, the inclination to postpone fully experiencing life is a universal challenge. Procrastination, often fueled by a shortage of time and money, obstructs many from embracing life’s adventures.
Reflecting paternal wisdom, the idea that those content with sufficiency will always discover abundance contrasts starkly with the perpetual craving for more, which paradoxically results in perpetual scarcity. Money, frequently misunderstood as the ultimate objective, functions better as a facilitator—a means to outsource tasks, thereby liberating time for pursuits that genuinely hold significance.
However, amidst the pursuit of financial stability and material possessions, the crucial questions persist: What is the elusive “X” that we aspire to, and importantly, when should we pursue it? Time, the ultimate finite currency, steadily diminishes, whether in the fleeting moments shared with loved ones or in the shadow of our mortality. Hence, the importance of prioritizing self-care and seizing the moment, encapsulated in the paternal counsel to “pay yourself first.”
Seize the day, make that overdue call, embark on that deferred journey, gradually allocate resources towards your aspirations—whatever it involves, carve out the time to truly relish and embrace the essence of Living Your Best Life.