USE IT OR LOSE IT…

This week, I want to talk about how you have to use something or invest in itregularly, or you will lose it. Whatever it is, skills, relationships, or health, unless you give something your regular attention and nurture it, it just withers away. 

Use it or lose it. This phrase is so true for almost everything in life. Skills, opportunities, health, etc. If you don't actively engage in something, you often risk losing things that are important to you. It’s easier to maintain something, than to rebuild it again from scratch.

For example, take learning a new language. You can spend many months learning a new language, but if you don’t keep learning it regularly and let any routine slide, before you know it, you are barely able to string a simple sentence together in that new language anymore. 

Even relationships and friendships aren't immune. Life always gets busy, but connections fade if neglected. So you have to reach out to people whenever you can, even if it’s just sending a quick message asking how someone is. Proactively invest in relationships if you want them there in the future.

Or apply this principle to physical fitness. If you ignore an exercise regime, you quickly find that your energy levels drop, you feel more stressed and you become stiffer and less flexible. If you don't use muscles, they weaken. If you don’t use abilities regularly, they just slip away. 

Other examples are how artistic talents fade without practice, or how musical abilities diminish without play. You must use your talents regularly if you want to keep them sharp; only frequent performance or practice maintains skills. Continuous learning about anything is also important.

Think of how consistent gardening keeps plants healthy and flourishing. If you ignore garden care, weeds overrun it. Or think of how finances or investments require regular attention. If you neglect things, you get into financial difficulties,  but regular check-ins ensure finances grow, or you don’t miss opportunities. 

However, the use it or lose it philosophy isn't universally applicable or accepted. Some skills and relationships sustain themselves, even during dormant periods. For instance, some friendships endure, regardless of time spent apart, and can be rekindled effortlessly when reconnected. Also, recognise people are different. 

And don't underestimate the value of rest. Stepping back often offers fresh perspectives, or allows for a return to something with your renewed energy. A balanced approach also knows that, whilst regular engagement usually helps, it’s not always essential. Pauses can enhance, not just diminish your abilities. 

So, this week, remember how the phrase “use it or lose it" emphasises regularity with anything to keep it alive. However, also remember that some things may still thrive through quiet times and breaks can allow for rest, recharge and reflection - not all aspects of life always require constant attention!