A lifehack is a tip or trick to do things better or quicker. It’s a means of getting results without putting in the effort. And they may work at first, but at what cost?

I was recently reminded of an old story about a carpenter that wanted to retire. He had worked for the same builder for many years. The owner was sorry to see the carpenter leave and gave him a small cash gift. He also asked the carpenter to build him one more house.

The builder had a beautiful piece of property with an amazing view – the site of his dream home. The carpenter was disillusioned with the marginal gift and the request to build another home, but agreed to do one last job.

For his entire career, he had an unwavering commitment to his craft and became known for his uncompromising attention to quality. But he wanted to get to the end of his last task. To do so, he cut corners for the first time in his career. He didn’t correct the workers who weren’t performing their jobs to spec. He used subpar materials and pocketed the extra money. He ignored the important details.

When the house was completed, the builder proudly gave the carpenter an envelope. In it was a thank you note and the deed to the house.

As we think about our own wellness, shortcuts come with a cost. Hacking our way around challenges instead of taking them on may make us clever, but it does not build health or muscle or character. True progress comes from having an intention, setting an action plan and methodically working through it. We don’t have to be perfect, we just need to fully and consistently show up in our effort.

What would an inspection of your house reveal? Would you have a strong foundation? Are you using the best materials? Are you building to your specifications with care and quality?

Journal Reflections: Where are you taking shortcuts with your wellness and what is the related cost? Where are you putting in the hard work? Are adjustments needed?

Building Your House