Chapter 1: Understanding Life’s Value

Life is a precious gift, and when we are fortunate enough to receive it, we tend to cherish it. If it no longer brings us joy, we might choose to discard it or pass it on to someone else. This concept mirrors our approach to life itself. Many individuals believe they are nurturing their existence, only to realize later that they are squandering it.

I’ve encountered individuals who appear to be thriving outwardly while gradually deteriorating within. They often overlook vital signals of life—those subtle hints that should prompt reflection.

"Ignoring your moral compass can lead to profound regret."

When I successfully passed my accounting licensure exams, my goal wasn’t to secure a position at a prestigious firm like Ernst and Young. The common path for many is to pursue a career in auditing post-exams. Instead, I opted for a private company offering better compensation than those slogging away for minimal pay.

Some of my university friends chose government roles, particularly in the Bureau of Internal Revenue. As many are aware, the inner workings of government agencies managing taxes and imports can be dubious. Corruption is often an open secret, with numerous accounts confirming its prevalence.

When my friend assisted me in settling the taxes on my late father’s real estate, we ended up paying half of what was actually documented— the rest vanished into the pockets of government workers. This practice has become normalized, and shockingly, few feel any guilt. Many are willing to overlook ethics for financial gain.

Section 1.1: Prioritizing Health

Your physical health is just as crucial as your mental well-being for truly enjoying life. I’ve been managing hypertension for two decades, and by grace, my kidneys continue to function well. However, my past habits included indulging in junk food, thinking that medication could compensate for my poor choices.

Experiencing persistent neck pain worried me, especially as I heard stories of friends undergoing angioplasty. Several years ago, I faced high blood sugar levels, which prompted a lifestyle overhaul— I realized that my family depended on my well-being.

Sometimes, negative signals are necessary to jolt us into action.

Subsection 1.1.1: The Dangers of Corporate Vanity

I once believed that a prestigious job title and a higher salary would equate to happiness. I became ensnared in corporate vanity, treating it as a hollow trophy for many years. Ultimately, I found myself enslaved by materialism until I recognized that these accolades held no true value. It took a toxic workplace environment and declining health for me to understand that such pursuits do not enhance my life.

While titles and salaries may inflate your ego, if they compromise your health and peace of mind, they are not worth the cost.

Chapter 2: Suggested Further Reading

Explore the video "How To Spot A Demon - 14 Signs" to better understand the signs that may indicate emotional turmoil and how to identify them effectively.

Watch "Can You Actually Die From a Panic Attack? How Danger Symptoms Fool You" to learn about the physical and psychological impacts of stress and anxiety, and how to address them.

Suggested Reads:

• You Will Never Get Rich With These 3 Kinds of Middle-Class Thinking

  Understanding that repetitive hard work without change yields the same results.

• The Top 5 Regrets of the Dying: What People Wish They Had Done Differently in Their Lives

  Life is unpredictable; take action now to avoid future regrets.

• Life Lessons Learned From a 79-Year-Old Retired Doctor

  Wisdom gained over decades can offer invaluable insights for living a fulfilling life.