When I was much younger I would seek out and embrace thrilling activities that carried the risk of physical harm. Bungee jumping, riding jet skis at fast speeds, hiking rocky/steep trails…these physical activities were lots of fun and part, some of the fun was knowing that there was risk involved.
Moving away from physical activities, there are other pursuits in our lives that carry some/lots of risk: Gambling at a casino, investing in the stock market and opening your own business are “risky” in that lots of money could be lost.
Personally, I have noticed that my tolerance for risky endeavors has lessened as I have gotten older. What used to be the quest for the “thrill” has been replaced by feeling scared that something may happen that will negatively impact my life in a way that is not reversible. Having been through 4 back surgeries, I am deathly afraid of doing something that would bring the horrific pain I experienced return. Financially, I am sure you baby Boomers out there agree with me that at this stage of life, you do not want to risk a large loss of retirement funds even if the potential return is high.
I am writing this entry to implore everyone to step back and evaluate whatever “risky” behaviors form a health standpoint you are involved with and then make a determined efforts to lessen these risks. Excessive alcohol intake, poor eating patterns, not allowing enough time for sleep…these behaviors and others may cause needless pain, suffering and lessening of the quality of time we have left. Risky behaviors, when it comes to health, is not always things you are doing, but also attention to details that you are not currently doing. It is risky NOT to exercise. It is risky NOT to control your weight. It is risky to NOT mitigate stress producing activities.
Reducing involvement in risky activities/behaviors does not lessen the enjoyment of life. As we all age, risk tolerance should change to pursue those activities and things that keep us healthy.
And from the Tom Cruise movie “Risky Business” here is one of the songs from the soundtrack. Enjoy The Police.
