#1 – There is no such thing as a simple solution to a complicated problem. We collectively talk and gripe about taking a KISS approach to life – the “keep it simple stupid” approach, and yet we all find ourselves tangled in very complicated processes, procedures and ways of living life. This isn’t just true with health care and insurance. I have to fill out a 3-page form each time my daughter wants to go on a Girl Scout field trip. All the potential things that can go wrong, now take simple things, like a “Yes, my daughter can go” verbal agreement, to a written release of liability form with attached immunization records. Complications have simply become expected and yet we spend enormous energy complaining about the complications instead of accepting them.

all on our own. Surround yourself with good translators who have energy and passion about understanding unique things. If taxes, health care, insurance or furnace replacement cause mental meltdown – find a good subject matter expert and let them translate for you. Asking for help can be the brightest thing you do for yourself.
#4 – Be a good gardener. Good gardeners love to talk to other people about how they manage their perennials, annuals, weeds, vegetables and soil composition. When gardeners are good at their craft, the whole neighborhood gets to enjoy the fruit of their labors either through curb appeal or literal shared fruit. We need to garden our yards, our homes, our bodies, our children, our communities and our lives well. When we behave like good gardeners we have better returns on our health and our finances. The trick with good gardening though, is you have to start in your own yard!