The Priceless Wealth of Time and Health: Why We Must Cherish Them Before They’re Gone
- Mar 23
- 4 min read
Introduction
Denis Waitley once wisely said, “Time and health are two precious assets that we don’t recognize and appreciate until they have been depleted.” These words encapsulate a universal truth—one that too many of us only come to understand when it is too late.
In the modern world, we are conditioned to chase financial success, status, and material possessions, often at the cost of our well-being. We spend our healthiest years working tirelessly to accumulate wealth, only to realize in old age—or worse, in sickness—that we no longer have the time or health to enjoy it. This article delves into the importance of time and health, the consequences of neglecting them, and how we can strike a balance before it’s too late.
The Illusion of Wealth and Success
From a young age, society ingrains in us the belief that success is measured by financial achievements. We are told that wealth brings security, luxury, and happiness. While financial stability is undeniably important, the relentless pursuit of money often blinds us to the things that truly matter.
Many individuals sacrifice their health and time—two non-renewable resources—in the name of success. They work long hours, skip meals, sacrifice sleep, and neglect exercise, all in an effort to build careers or businesses. By the time they have achieved their financial goals, they often find themselves physically and emotionally drained.
The Cost of Neglecting Health
Health is a gift that we take for granted until it begins to deteriorate. The human body is resilient, but it is not invincible. When we push ourselves beyond our limits—ignoring proper nutrition, exercise, and mental well-being—our bodies eventually break down.
Common Health Sacrifices in Pursuit of Wealth:
1. Chronic Stress and Mental Health Issues – The constant pressure to meet deadlines, achieve targets, or maintain a certain lifestyle can lead to anxiety, depression, and burnout.
2. Physical Ailments – Sedentary lifestyles, poor eating habits, and lack of exercise contribute to heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic illnesses.
3. Lack of Sleep – Many professionals trade sleep for work, believing they can ‘make up for it later.’ However, sleep deprivation has lasting consequences on brain function and overall health.
4. Weakened Relationships – The time spent pursuing financial success often means less time with family and loved ones, leading to emotional detachment and regrets later in life.
The Time Trap: Chasing Success at the Expense of Living
Time is the one currency we cannot earn back. Unlike money, which can be regained, every moment that passes is lost forever. Many people sacrifice present happiness for future rewards, telling themselves that they will ‘enjoy life later.’
However, “later” is not guaranteed. People reach retirement age only to find that they are too weak or sick to travel, spend time with loved ones, or pursue the passions they once set aside. Some never even reach that stage, as stress-related illnesses claim their lives prematurely.
The Paradox of Regret
Ask elderly individuals what they regret most in life, and their answers rarely include wishing they had made more money. As Rob Parsons put it in The Sixty Minute Father:
"No one was ever heard to say on their deathbed, ‘I wish I’d spent more time at the office."
Instead, common regrets include:
• Not spending enough time with family and friends.
• Neglecting health in the pursuit of success.
• Missing out on life’s simple joys due to work commitments.
• Failing to live in the moment, always worrying about the future.
This highlights the harsh reality: Many only realise the true value of time and health when they have little of it left.
How to Prioritize Time and Health Without Neglecting Success
The key is balance. Wealth and success are not inherently bad, but they should not come at the cost of well-being. Here’s how to shift focus and achieve a more fulfilling life:
1. Redefine Success
Instead of measuring success solely by financial achievements, consider a broader definition that includes:
• Good health and energy levels.
• Quality time with loved ones.
• Personal growth and mental peace.
• The ability to enjoy life’s experiences.
2. Practice Mindful Living
• Be present in each moment instead of constantly thinking about future goals.
• Engage in activities that bring joy, not just financial gain.
• Set boundaries between work and personal life.
3. Invest in Health as Early as Possible
• Exercise regularly to maintain physical fitness.
• Eat nutritious foods to fuel the body.
• Get enough rest to recharge.
• Prioritize mental health through relaxation and stress management.
4. Value Relationships Over Material Gains
• Make time for family and friends, as these connections provide long-term happiness.
• Celebrate small moments instead of waiting for big achievements.
5. Learn to Say No
• Avoid overcommitting to work at the expense of personal well-being.
• Recognize that not every opportunity is worth sacrificing health and time for.
Conclusion: Wealth Is Meaningless Without Health and Time
The ultimate tragedy is spending an entire life accumulating wealth, only to spend that wealth trying to regain lost health and lost time. Denis Waitley’s words serve as a powerful reminder that we must appreciate and nurture our time and health before they are depleted.
True success lies in balance—earning a livelihood without sacrificing the very things that make life worth living. Instead of waiting for a wake-up call, let us learn to prioritize what truly matters today. After all, time and health are the greatest wealth we will ever own.
The good news is that we still have the chance to shift our focus—starting now. Every small step we take toward valuing our time, health, and relationships can lead to a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
If this resonates deeply with you, maybe take a moment today to do something just for yourself—something that brings you peace, joy, or connection with loved ones. You deserve it.
To your success!
Tony Healer
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