There's nothing fun about stuff like estate planning, getting

"There's nothing fun about stuff like estate planning, getting mammograms, or talking to a guy about long term disability insurance, but do it anyway. Trust me, the stress of not having done the above is prematurely aging." These words, spoken by Jen Lancaster, remind us of the often unpleasant tasks we must face in life—those necessary responsibilities that, while not glamorous, are essential for our well-being and peace of mind. Lancaster brings forth a truth that is both practical and deeply emotional: the stress of avoiding these difficult, but crucial, tasks can take a toll on our health and spirit, slowly wearing us down with anxiety and uncertainty. The things we avoid today—planning, preparation, and taking care of our future—have a way of catching up with us, leading not only to stress but to the premature aging of our minds and bodies.

In the ancient world, the Greeks and Romans held the concept of duty and responsibility in high regard. To them, life was about balancing the needs of the present with the future, and they understood that without forethought and preparation, the individual would risk not just their own well-being, but the stability of the greater community. In Plato's The Republic, the philosopher speaks of the ideal society, where each person plays their part with care and foresight, ensuring the prosperity of all. In the same way, we must plan for our future with the same sense of duty—not out of fear, but out of respect for ourselves and the lives we are entrusted with. The ancient philosophers understood that without this balance, one would lead a life not of joy, but of constant worry and turmoil.

Consider the story of Cicero, the great Roman orator and statesman, who, in his own writings, often emphasized the importance of preparing for life's uncertainties. He understood that the stability of the state, and the peace of the individual, depended not just on the actions taken in the moment, but on the careful planning that came before. In his Tusculan Disputations, Cicero reflects on the human tendency to avoid difficult decisions, but he asserts that true peace and mental clarity come only when we accept our responsibilities and confront the things we must do, no matter how uncomfortable. Like Lancaster, Cicero knew that failing to plan for the inevitable—whether health-related issues or financial matters—leads only to unnecessary stress, fear, and turmoil.

The example of Benjamin Franklin, one of the Founding Fathers of America, also illustrates the power of forethought and preparation. Franklin famously said, "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure," emphasizing the importance of planning ahead in all aspects of life. Whether in health, finances, or personal relationships, Franklin believed that those who took the time to prepare were the ones who thrived in the long run. His life was a testament to this principle—through his many inventions, writings, and political work, Franklin consistently planned for the future, understanding that the effort of today would bear fruit in the years to come. His wisdom shows us that the avoidance of necessary tasks, though seemingly a relief in the moment, only leads to deeper difficulties in the future.

Lancaster's insight into the stress caused by unaddressed responsibilities offers a modern parallel to these ancient teachings. In our own lives, we are often confronted with the same reluctance to deal with challenging tasks, whether it's preparing for retirement, facing health concerns, or making difficult personal decisions. The fear of discomfort or the feeling of being overwhelmed can lead us to delay, but the cost of procrastination is not just a financial or logistical burden—it is a spiritual and emotional weight. Lancaster reminds us that the stress of avoidance is its own form of punishment, slowly wearing away at our peace of mind and our health. Like the ancient philosophers, she urges us to face these challenges head-on, knowing that doing so will bring relief and clarity.

The lesson to be drawn from Lancaster's words is not just a call to action, but an invitation to embrace responsibility as a means of finding peace. We cannot control every aspect of our lives, but we can take charge of those things that are within our power—planning for the future, taking care of our bodies, and securing our peace of mind. Forethought, as both the ancients and modern thinkers like Lancaster understand, is the foundation of a life well-lived. Inaction, on the other hand, only brings stress and uncertainty, eroding our ability to live with confidence and clarity.

In practical terms, we must learn to approach the uncomfortable tasks in life with the same sense of duty that the ancient philosophers and great leaders demonstrated. Whether it’s making those necessary medical appointments, drafting a will, or ensuring our finances are in order, we must not shy away from what feels unpleasant. The peace and clarity we seek will only come when we choose to face the things we would rather ignore. So, let us take this wisdom to heart: plan, prepare, and act, not out of fear, but out of love for ourselves and for the lives we wish to lead. By doing so, we will not only preserve our mental health but will ensure that we are living in the most empowered, peaceful way possible.