There are things in life that one must learn. That is a given. We know this. We anticipate and prepare for this. Yet, nothing can prepare one for life’s hard truths, because the reality is that we most likely will learn through difficulties and anguish. Nothing can prepare one for those days of utter hopelessness and fear. In those times, it is best to get back to basics. As the world seems so overly complicated, that is when one must simplify one’s life.

The best place to start is health. I haven’t exercised regularly in years. So I set out to run and do calisthenics every day. I know these exercises. Start simple, I can educate myself on how to further condition my body after I have reached a certain point and burned the toxins out of my body. Not to mention I also quit smoking. Now, the other side of this is diet. I’m no nutritionist, but I know that a large part of health issues today is what we put into our bodies through our mouths. It’s time to stop eating trash. The food we eat is killing us, and the rate is getting faster and faster. I don’t need to go into details because I’m sure most of the people reading this already know this, and if you don’t, a quick search will uncover more information than I could give you here.

Next is the list. I’ve tried for so long to function without one. But the list is necessary. The prioritizing of our everyday tasks. If one knows what to do and when it needs to be done, it is much more efficient. Not to forget the positive momentum, figuratively and biologically, that is achieved. Then, that sense of direction becomes a frequent factor in your decision making. Overcoming procrastination does not seem like a monumental effort.

So back to basics we go. I know what to do. I know how to do it. I’m doing it. Conditioning my body for any possibility and conditioning my mind for any opportunity. As much as I attempt to maintain a peaceful life, society today is full of conflict. We are constantly at war without and within. Life today is dissonant, almost absurd at times, and a healthy life, in all aspects, becomes an unattainable goal. It can be overwhelming. At times such as these, we must be strong and keep going, and I believe that requires going back to the basics. Strengthen your body and strengthen your mind.