Build the foundation first: An antidote to our brain’s tendency to overcomplicate simple things

I’ve been thinking a lot about foundations lately.

So much of modern life relies on specialization. You become an accountant, programmer or doctor. You choose to ski, paint or play basketball for fun. You’re a fan of Jane Austin, Frank Herbert or Stephen King. We all make our choices based on our unique tastes, interests and personality.

But there’s a core in life that is relatively universal. Things we all need to do simply because we are human beings.

Consider exercise. Outside of a few medical exceptions, we all should be exercising, at least a bit. Exercise is good for keeping strong, of course. But it’s also linked to improved cognition, mood, health and longevity.

Exercise is a foundation. Regardless of your career, hobbies or personality, exercise is good for you.

Reading is another foundation. The world is full of knowledge that would benefit each one of us, whether we’re academics or an athletes.

Having basic systems for productivity is another foundation. Our primate brains didn’t evolve to keep track of doctor’s appointments, work projects and to-do list items. Even if the exact details of your productivity system are up for debate, pretty much everyone is better off if they can keep an organized calendar and to-do list.