Being a natural-born, many-generational New England Yankee, I have to confess that I have disdain for "relaxation." Engagement with life can be passive or energetic.
Don't blame me: it's my culture. We must respect different cultures, and Yankees value effort.
Over the years, I have come to realize (slow-learner that I am) that energy level is a major determinant of success in pursuing one's goals. IQ? Not overly important. Physical appearance? Important only at the margins although being tall does help. Education? A slight edge up, but only for your first job.
Here's how I assess peoples' level of life vigor:
1. Play computer games? Low vigor by definition
2. Watch over 1 hr. of TV/day? Low vigor
3. Read at least book per week? Good mental vigor
4. Read Maggie's Farm daily? Good mental vigor
5. Play sports instead of watching sports? High vigor
6. Make music instead of listening to music? High vigor
7. Exercise daily above and beyond walking (or hold down a physical job)? High vigor
8. Work under 60 hrs/week? Low vigor
9. Sleep after 6 am? Low vigor
10 Live on takeout instead of home-cooked? Low vigor
I need to work on this and produce a copyrighted "Vigor Score." I'll get rich off of it, and annoy millions in the process.
