How to Change Your Foundation: Transforming Your Life from the Ground Up

Introduction

Have you ever felt like you’re building your life on shaky ground? Like no matter how hard you try, you can’t seem to make lasting changes or achieve your goals? The problem might not be with your efforts, but with your foundation.

In the context of personal growth, your “foundation” refers to the core elements that shape your life: your thoughts, habits, relationships, and overall approach to the world. Just as a house needs a solid foundation to withstand the test of time, your life needs a strong basis to thrive and flourish.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore nine key areas that form the foundation of a fulfilling life. We’ll dive deep into each aspect, providing you with practical strategies, inspiring examples, and actionable tasks to help you transform your life from the ground up.

Are you ready to embark on this transformative journey? Let’s begin by changing the very essence of how you think.

I. Changing Your Thinking

A. Mindset Shift: Embracing Growth and Possibility

Your mindset is the lens through which you view the world, and it profoundly impacts your actions and outcomes. One of the most influential theories in this area comes from psychologist Carol Dweck, who introduced the concepts of fixed and growth mindsets.

Fixed vs. Growth Mindset

• Fixed Mindset: Believes that abilities and intelligence are static traits. People with this mindset often avoid challenges, give up easily, and feel threatened by others’ success.
• Growth Mindset: Believes that abilities can be developed through dedication and hard work. People with this mindset embrace challenges, persist in the face of setbacks, and find inspiration in others’ success.

Example: Thomas Edison’s 1,000 Failed Attempts

Consider the story of Thomas Edison and his journey to invent the light bulb. When a reporter asked him how it felt to fail 1,000 times, Edison replied, “I didn’t fail 1,000 times. The light bulb was an invention with 1,000 steps.”

This response perfectly encapsulates the growth mindset. Edison viewed each “failure” as a necessary step towards success, not as a reflection of his abilities or worth.

Task: Challenge Your Fixed Mindset

1. Identify one area in your life where you tend to have a fixed mindset. It could be related to a skill you’ve always wanted to learn or a goal you’ve been hesitant to pursue.
2. Write down three limiting beliefs you have about this area. For example, “I’m too old to learn a new language” or “I’m not creative enough to start a business.”
3. For each limiting belief, come up with a growth-oriented alternative. For instance, “Learning a new language at any age can improve cognitive function” or “Creativity is a skill that can be developed with practice.”
4. Create a plan to take one small action that challenges your fixed mindset in this area. Commit to doing it within the next week.

B. Cognitive Restructuring: Reshaping Your Inner Dialogue

Our thoughts shape our reality. By learning to identify and challenge negative thought patterns, we can dramatically improve our mental well-being and overall life satisfaction.

Identifying Negative Thought Patterns

Common negative thought patterns include:

1. All-or-nothing thinking: Viewing situations in black-and-white terms.
2. Overgeneralization: Drawing broad conclusions from a single event.
3. Mental filter: Focusing solely on negative aspects while ignoring positives.
4. Jumping to conclusions: Making negative interpretations without supporting facts.
5. Catastrophizing: Expecting the worst possible outcome in any situation.

The Power of Words

As Lao Tzu wisely said, “Watch your thoughts; they become words. Watch your words; they become actions.” This quote underscores the importance of being mindful of our internal dialogue.

Technique: The ABCDE Model

To challenge negative thoughts, try using the ABCDE model developed by psychologist Albert Ellis:

• A (Activating Event): Identify the situation triggering the negative thoughts.
• B (Beliefs): Recognize the negative beliefs or interpretations about the event.
• C (Consequences): Notice the emotional and behavioral consequences of these beliefs.
• D (Dispute): Challenge the negative beliefs with evidence and alternative perspectives.
• E (Effect): Experience the new emotional and behavioral effects of the revised beliefs.

Task: Practice Cognitive Restructuring

1. For one week, keep a thought journal. Write down situations that trigger negative emotions and the thoughts associated with them.
2. At the end of the week, review your journal and identify any recurring thought patterns.
3. Choose one recurring negative thought and apply the ABCDE model to it.
4. Practice replacing this thought with a more balanced, realistic alternative whenever it occurs.

Book Recommendation

For a deeper dive into cognitive restructuring techniques, check out “Feeling Good: The New Mood Therapy” by David D. Burns. This classic self-help book offers practical strategies for overcoming depression and anxiety by changing your thinking patterns.

II. Transforming Your Lifestyle

A. Daily Habits and Routines: The Power of Small Changes

Our lives are essentially the sum of our daily habits. By making small, consistent changes to our routines, we can dramatically alter the course of our lives over time.

The Compound Effect of Habits

Consider this: If you improve just 1% each day, you’ll end up 37 times better by the end of the year. Conversely, if you decline by 1% each day, you’ll dwindle down to nearly zero. This concept, explored in James Clear’s “Atomic Habits,” illustrates the power of small, consistent changes.

Case Study: Benjamin Franklin’s Daily Schedule

Benjamin Franklin, one of America’s founding fathers, was renowned for his productivity and varied accomplishments. He attributed much of his success to a rigorous daily routine, which he outlined in his autobiography:

5–7 AM: Rise, wash, and address “Powerful Goodness” (prayer). Plan the day’s business and take on the day’s study. 8–11 AM: Work 12–1 PM: Read or overlook accounts and dine. 2–5 PM: Work 6–9 PM: Put things in their places. Supper. Music or diversion, or conversation. Examination of the day. 10 PM-4 AM: Sleep

Franklin’s routine demonstrates the importance of structure, continuous learning, and self-reflection in personal growth.

Task: Create Your Ideal Morning Routine

1. List 3–5 activities that would make your mornings more productive and aligned with your goals. These could include meditation, exercise, reading, or planning your day.
2. Determine how much time each activity requires and what time you’d need to wake up to accommodate them.
3. Create a detailed schedule for your ideal morning routine.
4. Implement this routine for one week, adjusting as necessary.
5. At the end of the week, reflect on how this new routine has impacted your days and overall well-being.

B. Health and Wellness: The Cornerstones of a Strong Foundation

Your physical health forms the bedrock of your life’s foundation. Without good health, it becomes challenging to pursue your goals and live life to the fullest.

The Triad of Health: Nutrition, Exercise, and Sleep

1. Nutrition: Fuel your body with wholesome, nutrient-dense foods. Consider adopting a Mediterranean-style diet, which is associated with numerous health benefits.
2. Exercise: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity per week, along with strength training exercises at least twice a week.
3. Sleep: Prioritize getting 7–9 hours of quality sleep each night. Establish a consistent sleep schedule and create a relaxing bedtime routine.

Example: Arianna Huffington’s Sleep Revolution

Arianna Huffington, co-founder of The Huffington Post, experienced a wake-up call when she collapsed from exhaustion in 2007. This incident led her to reassess her priorities and place sleep at the forefront of her wellness routine.

In her book “The Sleep Revolution,” Huffington shares how prioritizing sleep transformed her life:

• Increased productivity and creativity
• Improved decision-making abilities
• Enhanced emotional resilience
• Better overall health and well-being

Huffington’s experience underscores the critical role that sleep plays in our overall foundation.

Task: Conduct a Health Audit

1. For one week, track your nutrition, exercise, and sleep habits in detail.
2. At the end of the week, review your log and identify areas for improvement.
3. Set one specific, achievable goal for each area (nutrition, exercise, and sleep) for the upcoming week.
4. Implement these changes and note how they affect your energy levels, mood, and productivity.

Book Recommendation

To dive deeper into the power of habits in transforming your health and life, read “Atomic Habits” by James Clear. This book provides practical strategies for building good habits, breaking bad ones, and making small changes that lead to remarkable results.

III. Redefining Your Dreams

A. Goal Setting and Vision Boarding: Charting Your Course

Setting clear, compelling goals is crucial for personal growth and life satisfaction. However, not all goal-setting methods are created equal.

SMART Goals vs. BHAG (Big Hairy Audacious Goals)

1. SMART Goals: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound

• Example: “I will save $5,000 for a down payment on a house by December 31st of this year by setting aside $500 per month from my salary.”

1. BHAG: A term coined by Jim Collins in his book “Built to Last,” referring to audacious long-term goals that might seem impossible at first glance

• Example: SpaceX’s goal to enable human colonization of Mars

Both types of goals have their place in your personal growth journey. SMART goals provide clear direction and measurable progress, while BHAGs inspire and motivate you to think bigger.

The Power of Visualization: Vision Boarding

Vision boarding is a powerful technique that involves creating a visual representation of your goals and dreams. It helps to clarify your aspirations, maintain focus, and activate your subconscious mind to work towards your goals.

Task: Create Your Vision Board

1. Reflect on your long-term goals and dreams for various aspects of your life (career, relationships, health, personal growth, etc.).
2. Gather magazines, printed images, quotes, and any other visual elements that represent these goals.
3. On a large poster board or digital platform (like Pinterest), arrange these elements in a visually appealing way.
4. Place your vision board somewhere you’ll see it daily.
5. Spend a few minutes each day visualizing yourself achieving these goals and living your ideal life.

B. Overcoming Limiting Beliefs: Breaking Through Your Self-Imposed Barriers

Limiting beliefs are negative thoughts or convictions that hold us back from reaching our full potential. They often operate subconsciously, influencing our decisions and actions without our awareness.

Identifying Limiting Beliefs

Common limiting beliefs include:

• “I’m not good enough.”
• “I don’t deserve success.”
• “I’m too old/young to start.”
• “I don’t have enough time/money/resources.”
• “Success is only for lucky people.”

The Impact of Belief on Achievement

As Henry Ford famously said, “Whether you think you can or you think you can’t, you’re right.” This quote encapsulates the profound impact our beliefs have on our abilities and achievements.

Technique: The Belief Ladder

To overcome limiting beliefs, try using the Belief Ladder technique:

1. Identify the limiting belief.
2. Create a list of evidence that contradicts this belief.
3. Formulate a new, empowering belief that’s slightly more positive.
4. Gradually “climb the ladder” to increasingly positive beliefs, using evidence to support each step.

Task: Challenge Your Limiting Beliefs

1. List three limiting beliefs you hold about yourself or your abilities.
2. For each belief, write down at least five pieces of evidence that contradict it.
3. Create a new, empowering belief for each limiting belief.
4. Develop a daily affirmation practice using these new beliefs.
5. Each week, reflect on instances where you acted in alignment with your new beliefs.

Book Recommendation

To further explore the concept of overcoming self-imposed limitations, read “The Big Leap” by Gay Hendricks. This book delves into the “upper limit problem” — the tendency to sabotage ourselves when we exceed our implicit sense of what’s possible for us.

IV. Expanding Your Circle

A. Networking and Relationship Building: Your Net Worth is Your Network

The people we surround ourselves with have a profound impact on our personal and professional growth. As the saying goes, “Your net worth is your network.”

The Power of Weak Ties

While close relationships are crucial, research by sociologist Mark Granovetter suggests that “weak ties” — acquaintances and loose connections — often provide the most valuable opportunities for growth and advancement.

Example: Keith Ferrazzi’s Relationship Building

Keith Ferrazzi, author of “Never Eat Alone,” transformed his life through strategic relationship building. Growing up in a working-class family, Ferrazzi used networking to gain access to opportunities that ultimately led him to Yale University and Harvard Business School.

Ferrazzi’s key principles include:

1. Never eat alone: Use meals as opportunities to connect with others.
2. Make others feel important: Show genuine interest in people’s lives and aspirations.
3. Find common ground: Look for shared interests or experiences to build rapport.
4. Follow up consistently: Maintain relationships through regular contact.

Task: Expand Your Network

1. Identify three people in your field or areas of interest whom you admire but don’t know personally.
2. Research these individuals and find points of common interest or potential value you could offer them.
3. Reach out to each person with a personalized message, explaining your admiration and suggesting a brief conversation or meeting.
4. Regardless of the outcome, reflect on what you learned from this experience and how you can apply it to future networking efforts.

B. Finding Mentors and Accountability Partners: The Power of Guidance and Support

Mentors and accountability partners can dramatically accelerate your personal growth by providing guidance, support, and motivation.

The Mentor-Mentee Relationship

A mentor is someone with more experience in your field or area of interest who can provide advice, share insights, and help you navigate challenges.

Case Study: Warren Buffett and Bill Gates

One of the most famous mentor-mentee relationships in the business world is between Warren Buffett and Bill Gates. Despite their age difference and different industries, they formed a close bond based on mutual respect and shared values.

Gates has often credited Buffett with teaching him about business, philanthropy, and life in general. Some key lessons Gates learned from Buffett include:

1. The importance of focus and saying no to opportunities that don’t align with your core goals.
2. The value of long-term thinking in both business and personal life.
3. The power of clear communication and ethical behavior in building trust.

The Role of Accountability Partners

An accountability partner is someone with whom you share your goals and who helps keep you on track. This relationship is often reciprocal, with both partners supporting each other’s growth.

Task: Find a Mentor and an Accountability Partner

1. Identify potential mentors in your field or area of interest. These could be more experienced colleagues, industry leaders, or even authors of books you admire.
2. Reach out to one potential mentor, clearly explaining why you’re seeking mentorship and what you hope to learn.
3. Among your peers, identify someone with similar goals or interests who could serve as an accountability partner.
4. Set up a meeting with your potential accountability partner to discuss your respective goals and how you can support each other.
5. Establish a regular check-in schedule with both your mentor (if they agree) and your accountability partner.

Book Recommendation

For more insights on finding mentors and leveraging relationships for personal growth, read “Tribe of Mentors” by Timothy Ferriss. This book compiles wisdom and advice from over 100 successful individuals across various fields.

V. Changing Your Communication

A. Active Listening: The Art of Truly Hearing Others

Effective communication starts with listening. Active listening involves fully concentrating on, understanding, and responding to the speaker, rather than just passively hearing their words.

Benefits of Active Listening

1. Builds stronger relationships
2. Reduces misunderstandings
3. Increases empathy and emotional intelligence
4. Improves problem-solving abilities
5. Enhances learning and personal growth

Techniques for Active Listening

1. Give your full attention: Put away distractions and focus on the speaker.
2. Show that you’re listening: Use nonverbal cues like nodding and maintaining eye contact.
3. Provide feedback: Summarize or paraphrase to ensure understanding.
4. Defer judgment: Listen to understand, not to evaluate or respond.
5. Respond appropriately: Ask questions for clarification and provide thoughtful responses.

Task: Practice the “Speaker-Listener” Technique

1. Choose a topic of mutual interest with a partner.
2. Set a timer for 5 minutes.
3. One person speaks on the topic while the other listens without interrupting.
4. When the timer goes off, the listener summarizes what they heard.
5. The speaker provides feedback on the accuracy of the summary.
6. Switch roles and repeat.

B. Assertive Communication: Expressing Needs and Boundaries Effectively

Assertive communication involves expressing your thoughts, feelings, and needs clearly and respectfully, while also respecting the rights and needs of others.

The Four Communication Styles

1. Passive: Avoids conflict, often at the expense of one’s own needs.
2. Aggressive: Expresses needs forcefully, often at the expense of others.
3. Passive-Aggressive: Indirectly expresses negative feelings, often through subtle actions.
4. Assertive: Clearly expresses needs and boundaries while respecting others.

The Power of Clear Communication

As George Bernard Shaw said, “The single biggest problem in communication is the illusion that it has taken place.” This quote highlights the importance of ensuring our message is not just sent, but received and understood as intended.

Techniques for Assertive Communication

1. Use “I” statements: Express your feelings and needs without blaming others.
2. Be specific: Clearly state what you want or need.
3. Practice active listening: Ensure you understand the other person’s perspective.
4. Use body language: Maintain eye contact and an open posture.
5. Learn to say no: Set boundaries respectfully but firmly.

Task: Practice Assertive Communication

1. Identify a situation where you need to communicate assertively (e.g., asking for a raise, setting boundaries with a friend).
2. Write out your message using the assertive communication techniques.
3. Practice delivering your message in front of a mirror or with a trusted friend.
4. Implement your assertive communication in the real situation.
5. Reflect on the outcome and how it felt to communicate assertively.

Book Recommendation

To deepen your understanding of effective communication in various situations, read “Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes Are High” by Patterson, Grenny, McMillan, and Switzler. This book provides strategies for handling high-stakes conversations with confidence and skill.

VI. Connecting with Nature

A. Biophilia and Well-being: The Psychological Benefits of Nature Connection

Biophilia, a term coined by biologist E.O. Wilson, refers to humans’ innate affinity for nature. Research has shown that connecting with nature can significantly improve mental health, reduce stress, and enhance overall well-being.

The Japanese Practice of “Forest Bathing” (Shinrin-yoku)

Forest bathing involves immersing oneself in nature using all five senses. This practice has been shown to:

1. Reduce stress hormone production
2. Lower heart rate and blood pressure
3. Boost the immune system
4. Improve overall feelings of wellbeing

Task: Daily Nature Connection

1. Commit to spending 20 minutes in nature daily for a week.
2. During each session, engage all your senses:

• What do you see? Notice colors, shapes, movements.
• What do you hear? Listen for birds, rustling leaves, water.
• What do you smell? Identify natural scents around you.
• What do you feel? Touch tree bark, grass, or leaves.
• What do you taste? If safe, taste edible plants or simply notice the taste of the air.

1. Journal your experiences after each session, noting any changes in your mood or stress levels.

B. Environmental Stewardship: Caring for Our Planet

Developing a sense of environmental stewardship not only benefits the planet but can also provide a sense of purpose and connection to something larger than ourselves.

Case Study: Jadav Payeng, “The Forest Man of India”

Jadav Payeng’s story is a powerful example of how one person’s dedication to nature can make a significant impact. In 1979, 16-year-old Payeng began planting trees on a barren sandbar near his home in Assam, India. Over four decades, his daily efforts transformed the area into a lush 1,360-acre forest, home to numerous plant and animal species.

Payeng’s work demonstrates how consistent, small actions can lead to profound changes over time.

Task: Personal Environmental Initiative

1. Identify an environmental issue that resonates with you (e.g., plastic pollution, deforestation, carbon emissions).
2. Research the issue and list three actions you can take to address it in your daily life.
3. Implement these actions for one month, tracking your progress and impact.
4. At the end of the month, reflect on how this initiative has affected your connection to nature and sense of purpose.

Book Recommendation

To explore the importance of nature connection, especially for children, read “Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children from Nature-Deficit Disorder” by Richard Louv. This book discusses the benefits of nature exposure and offers suggestions for reconnecting with the natural world.

VII. Exploring Other Key Fields

A. Financial Foundation: Building Security and Freedom

A solid financial foundation provides stability and opens up opportunities for personal growth and life experiences.

Key Elements of Financial Health

1. Budgeting: Track income and expenses to ensure you’re living within your means.
2. Saving: Build an emergency fund and save for future goals.
3. Investing: Grow your wealth over time through smart investment strategies.
4. Debt Management: Reduce and eliminate high-interest debt.
5. Financial Education: Continuously improve your financial literacy.

Task: Create a Budget and Savings Plan

1. Track all income and expenses for one month.
2. Categorize your expenses and identify areas where you can cut back.
3. Set specific financial goals (e.g., building an emergency fund, saving for a down payment).
4. Create a budget that aligns with these goals, using the 50/30/20 rule as a starting point:

• 50% for needs (housing, food, utilities)
• 30% for wants (entertainment, dining out)
• 20% for savings and debt repayment

1. Implement your budget for one month, then review and adjust as necessary.

B. Spiritual/Philosophical Foundation: Developing a Personal Philosophy

A strong spiritual or philosophical foundation can provide a sense of meaning, purpose, and guidance in life.

The Importance of a Personal Philosophy

As Friedrich Nietzsche said, “He who has a why to live can bear almost any how.” This quote underscores the importance of having a guiding philosophy or set of beliefs to navigate life’s challenges.

Approaches to Developing a Personal Philosophy

1. Study various philosophical and spiritual traditions
2. Reflect on your core values and beliefs
3. Engage in contemplative practices like meditation or journaling
4. Seek out meaningful conversations with others about life’s big questions

Task: Articulate Your Personal Philosophy

1. Reflect on and write down your answers to the following questions:

• What gives your life meaning?
• What are your core values?
• What do you believe about the nature of reality and human existence?
• How do you define a “good life”?

1. Based on your reflections, write a one-page personal philosophy statement.
2. Identify three ways you can align your daily actions with this philosophy.
3. Review and refine your philosophy statement regularly as you grow and gain new experiences.

C. Creative Expression: Nurturing Creativity for Innovation and Problem-Solving

Creativity is not just for artists — it’s a crucial skill for innovation, problem-solving, and personal growth in all areas of life.

Example: Julia Cameron’s “Morning Pages” Technique

Author Julia Cameron, in her book “The Artist’s Way,” introduces the concept of “Morning Pages” — a practice of writing three pages of stream-of-consciousness thoughts every morning. This technique helps to:

1. Clear the mind of clutter
2. Tap into subconscious creativity
3. Overcome creative blocks
4. Generate new ideas and insights

Task: Explore a New Creative Outlet

1. Choose a creative activity you’ve always wanted to try (e.g., painting, writing, music, dance).
2. Commit to practicing this activity for 15 minutes daily for two weeks.
3. Focus on the process rather than the outcome, allowing yourself to experiment and make mistakes.
4. At the end of two weeks, reflect on how this creative practice has affected your thinking and problem-solving in other areas of life.

D. Continuous Learning: Embracing a Lifelong Learning Mindset

In our rapidly changing world, continuous learning is essential for personal growth, career advancement, and maintaining cognitive health.

Benefits of Lifelong Learning

1. Keeps the mind sharp and engaged
2. Increases adaptability in a changing job market
3. Enhances self-confidence and self-esteem
4. Provides opportunities for social connection
5. Contributes to a sense of purpose and fulfillment

Task: Engage in Continuous Learning

1. Identify three skills or subjects you’d like to learn or improve.
2. For each skill/subject, find a free online course or resource (e.g., Coursera, edX, Khan Academy).
3. Dedicate 30 minutes each day to learning, rotating between your chosen topics.
4. At the end of each week, reflect on what you’ve learned and how you can apply it in your life or work.
5. Share your learning journey with others to reinforce your knowledge and inspire continuous learning in your circle.

VIII. Putting It All Together

The Interconnectedness of All Foundational Aspects

As we’ve explored these various aspects of changing your foundation, it becomes clear that they are all interconnected. Your thoughts influence your actions, your actions shape your habits, your habits determine your lifestyle, and your lifestyle impacts your relationships, health, and overall life satisfaction.

Creating a Personal Growth Plan

To truly transform your foundation, it’s essential to approach personal growth holistically, addressing all these interconnected aspects.

Steps to Create Your Personal Growth Plan

1. Assess your current foundation: Evaluate where you stand in each of the areas we’ve discussed.
2. Set clear goals: Identify specific, measurable goals for each area of your foundation.
3. Prioritize: Determine which areas need the most immediate attention.
4. Create action plans: Develop detailed plans for achieving your goals in each area.
5. Implement daily habits: Incorporate small, consistent actions that support your goals.
6. Track progress: Regularly assess your progress and adjust your plans as needed.
7. Celebrate successes: Acknowledge and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small.

Case Study: Oprah Winfrey’s Foundational Transformation

Oprah Winfrey’s journey from a challenging childhood to becoming one of the most influential media personalities exemplifies the power of changing one’s foundation.

Key aspects of Oprah’s foundational change include:

1. Mindset shift: Embracing a growth mindset and believing in her potential.
2. Continuous learning: Constantly seeking knowledge and new experiences.
3. Health and wellness: Prioritizing physical and mental health.
4. Relationships: Surrounding herself with supportive and inspiring individuals.
5. Spirituality: Developing a strong spiritual practice and sense of purpose.
6. Giving back: Using her success to make a positive impact on others.

Oprah’s story demonstrates how working on multiple aspects of one’s foundation can lead to extraordinary personal and professional growth.

IX. Conclusion

Changing your foundation is a lifelong journey of growth and self-discovery. It requires commitment, patience, and consistent effort. But the rewards — a more fulfilling, purposeful, and satisfying life — are well worth the investment.

Remember, as the Chinese proverb says, “The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now.” No matter where you are in life, it’s never too late to start strengthening your foundation.

As you embark on this transformative journey, be kind to yourself. Celebrate small victories, learn from setbacks, and remember that personal growth is not about perfection, but about progress.

Your foundation is the bedrock upon which you build your life. By consciously working to strengthen it in all these areas — from your mindset to your relationships, from your health to your connection with nature — you’re setting yourself up for a life of growth, fulfillment, and meaningful achievement.

So, take that first step. Choose one area to focus on, set a small, achievable goal, and start building your new foundaion today. Your future self will thank you for the strong, stable ground you’re creating now.