A Word to the Wise Is Sufficient

BREN SHERIFF
BREN SHERIFF


A Word to the Wise Is Sufficient

Usually, I emphasize the importance of financial planning to meet our changing needs as we age. However, this week I’m offering a gentle nudge—especially to those of us who have been certified couch potatoes before and during the holidays, eating our favorite snacks and watching games or movies on TV.  For many of us our only exercise has been running out for snacks, walking to and from the kitchen, and lifting food and beverages to our mouth.  I ain’t crackin’, just fac’n.

This week I want to illustrate that there is a parallel truth between fiscal and physical conditioning that deserves equal attention. Longevity is not funded by money alone. Living longer—and living healthier—requires deliberate management of physical health, particularly the heart and lungs that sustain every other system in our body.

For many readers, especially those of us navigating aging joints and maintaining an up-close-and-personal relationship with the Itis Brothers—arthritis, bursitis, and neuritis, all calling for Bengay to make nightly house calls—the idea of exercise can feel intimidating or unrealistic. Add past injuries or simple wear and tear from life, and high-impact workouts quickly move from “unappealing” to “absolutely not.”

I’m old school. My philosophy is “inch by inch, it’s a sinch” - be the tortoise, not the hare. Yes, we want results—but not at the cost of joint strain or pain. That’s counterproductive and discouraging. Fortunately, cardiovascular health does not require pounding pavement or punishing routines. Just as conservative investments can still yield steady returns, low-impact exercise can significantly strengthen the heart and lungs without excessive stress on the joints.

Like many people making New Year resolutions, I’ve made a commitment to myself to exercise at least 15 minutes every day. Below are joint-friendly activities that studies show will consistently deliver meaningful cardiovascular benefits while respecting physical limitations:

Walking (done intentionally)

Swimming and water aerobics

Cycling (stationary or outdoor)

Elliptical training

Rowing (machine or water)

Chair-based cardio and low-impact dance

I can already hear the excuses: “I don’t have the equipment.” “I don’t have the time.” “I’m too old.” Excuses are nothing more than stumbling blocks. If you believe the excuses you make for not exercising, you probably don’t believe that fat meat is greasy—but FAFO (fool around and find out).

Ask yourself this question: Would it kill me to take advantage of my Silver Sneakers membership?

Answer: No, and most of you with Medicare do have a Silver Sneakers membership, but don’t use it.

Moderate exercise is essential and recommended, but to the contrary, if you choose not to exercise, it just might shorten your life if you don’t keep moving as you age. Think about it.  If you don’t use it you will lose it.

Physical exercise, like financial planning, should be diversified—managing risk while choosing activities that can be sustained long-term. Physical health deserves the same strategic mindset as your personal finances. Neglecting the heart and lungs while focusing solely on wealth is like protecting assets without insuring the foundations on which they rest.

As I plan my daily routine, I’m choosing low-impact exercise that I can physically sustain. No pushing hard. Just showing up—slow but sho’. Small, consistent movements compound over time, improving endurance, independence, and an improved quality of life. That return on investment is worth the short-term effort – short term pain, long term gain.

Physical exercise is no different from sound fiscal habits preserving financial freedom; thoughtful physical activity preserves the ability to enjoy life and all of its physical fun generating activities. Where dem’ fans at?

In the end, a well-managed life balances both ledgers—fiscal and physical. A word to the wise is sufficient, don’t ignore either and you too can live a happier, healthier, and more prosperous life.

 My best to you and yours, 

Bren Sheriff, CSA

THIS WEEK’S QUIZ: When a loved one dies leaving assets but no estate plan, what weighs heavier on a family—grief, or the greed that uncertainty can awaken?

Answer to last week’s quiz: Unresolved family disputes after death cost far more—financially and emotionally—than professional estate planning fees paid today.

Here’s the financial reality, plainly stated:

1. Estate planning is a fixed, predictable cost which you control.
2. Family conflict creates open-ended costs which can rapidly deplete an estate.
3. Legal fees can multiply quickly after death without a well-structured estate plan.
4. Emotional conflict has financial consequences which cannot be predicted nor controlled.
Bottom line:
Estate planning is an investment in cost control, clarity, and family stability.
Family disputes are an uncontrolled liability—paid in dollars, delay, and damaged relationships.

For Questions or Help: 773-817-0601 or basheriff1@gmail.com

Disclaimer: The illustrations presented in this column are not, nor are they intended to be, legal, financial, or any other licensed professional advice, you should contact the licensed professional of your choice for advice on your individual situation.


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