This Is Cheaper Than a Funeral

Let me share a story about a guy I recently spoke with—let’s call him “Achilles.” Now, Achilles isn’t his real name, but the name suits his story. He’s in his mid-40s, running a successful business, raising a family, and seemingly has it all together. Until he didn’t.

Achilles had a terrifying wake-up call. Chest pains sent him straight to the Emergency Room. Thankfully, it wasn’t a heart attack, but it was a clear warning sign: change your lifestyle, or next time, you might not be so lucky.

His doctor’s orders were blunt: lose belly fat. Visceral fat—the kind that builds up around your organs—is linked to a higher risk of heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. Achilles’s doctor even recommended my coaching program after reading some of my posts. That’s how I ended up on the phone with him.

Achilles ticked all the right boxes. He had a realistic goal: lose 40 pounds in a year. He had his wife’s full support. He was laser-focused. Everything was lined up. Then we got to the investment—$99 a week.

His response? “That’s more than my car payment!”

I hear this all the time. And my response is always the same: “If you think wellness is expensive, try illness.”

This Is Cheaper Than a Funeral

There are few things in life that truly matter, and many that don’t. Knowing the difference is key. For Achilles, his health had been an afterthought. Until it wasn’t.

Many people in their 40s and beyond share the same mindset. Health isn’t a priority until something forces it to be. But here’s the truth: you can’t enjoy life—your family, your career, your hobbies—without your health. It’s the foundation for everything else.

Achilles and I had a frank discussion about value. Let’s break it down:

• $99 a week is cheaper than the long-term costs of diabetes—insulin, doctor visits, and complications.

• $99 a week is less than the price of sleepless nights caused by stress and poor health.

• $99 a week is a fraction of the cost of lost productivity, missed opportunities, and poor focus.

• $99 a week is cheaper than a funeral.

Your body is the most important vehicle you’ll ever own. You only get one, and unlike a car, you can’t trade it in for a newer model. Investing in your health is the only way to ensure it lasts.

Why Change Feels Scary

Change is uncomfortable. It’s easy to stick with what you know, even if it’s harming you. Achilles’s initial hesitation wasn’t about money—it was about fear. Fear of stepping out of his comfort zone. Fear of failing. Fear of admitting that his current habits weren’t serving him.

But here’s what I’ve learned over 25 years as a coach: fear fades when you focus on your goals and take consistent action. The key is to stop overthinking and start doing.

The True Cost of Procrastination

Let’s take a moment to consider the cost of doing nothing. Imagine this: You ignore the signs, avoid the investment, and continue on your current path. Fast forward five years. What does your life look like?

Maybe you’ve gained another 20 pounds. Maybe your energy levels have tanked, making it harder to keep up with your kids or focus at work. Maybe you’re now on multiple medications for high blood pressure, cholesterol, or diabetes. And maybe—just maybe—you’ve had a serious health crisis that could have been avoided.

The reality is that neglecting your health doesn’t just impact you. It affects everyone around you. Your family, your friends, your coworkers—they all feel the ripple effects. And while $99 a week might seem like a lot right now, the costs of inaction—both financial and emotional—are far greater.

Action Steps to Prioritize Your Health

If you’re reading this and wondering how to get started, here are some actionable steps:

1. Define Your Why

Why do you want to get healthy? Is it for your kids? To avoid chronic illness? To feel confident in your own skin? Write it down and keep it visible. Your “why” will keep you motivated when the journey gets tough.

2. Set a Clear Goal

Be specific. Instead of saying, “I want to lose weight,” set a goal like, “I will lose 40 pounds in 12 months by eating better and exercising regularly.”

3. Invest in Yourself

Health isn’t a cost; it’s an investment. Whether it’s $99 a week for coaching, a gym membership, or high-quality food, prioritize spending on things that improve your well-being.

4. Take Small Steps

Start with simple changes:

• Replace sugary drinks with water.

• Walk for 30 minutes a day.

• Add a serving of vegetables to every meal.

Consistency beats perfection. Small wins add up over time.

5. Find Accountability

Achilles had his wife’s support, which is crucial. Share your goals with someone who will encourage you and hold you accountable. A coach, a friend, or even a fitness group can make a big difference.

6. Track Your Progress

Keep a journal or use an app to track your food, workouts, and progress. Seeing how far you’ve come will motivate you to keep going.

7. Reframe Your Mindset

Instead of thinking, “I have to work out,” think, “I get to work out.” Gratitude shifts your perspective and makes healthy habits feel like privileges rather than chores.

What’s the Value of Health?

At the end of our conversation, I asked Achilles a question: “How much is your life worth to you?”

We spend money on what we value. A car, a vacation, a new gadget—these are nice, but they’re temporary. Your health, on the other hand, affects every aspect of your life. It’s priceless.

When you invest in your health, you’re not just adding years to your life—you’re adding life to your years. Imagine playing with your grandkids without getting winded, traveling without physical limitations, and waking up every day feeling energized and strong.

The Long-Term Benefits of Health Investments

Here’s what happens when you make your health a priority:

• Increased Energy: Regular exercise and a balanced diet boost your energy levels, making it easier to tackle your daily responsibilities.

• Improved Mental Health: Physical activity releases endorphins, which reduce stress and improve mood. You’ll feel happier and more focused.

• Better Relationships: When you feel good about yourself, it’s easier to connect with others. You’ll have more patience, energy, and positivity to share with your loved ones.

• Reduced Healthcare Costs: Preventative care is always cheaper than treatment. By maintaining a healthy lifestyle, you’ll save money on medications, doctor visits, and hospital stays.

Overcoming Common Excuses

Let’s address some of the common excuses people make:

• “I don’t have time.” If something is important to you, you’ll make time for it. Start with just 10 minutes a day and build from there.

• “I can’t afford it.” Remember, $99 a week is an investment in your future. Cut back on non-essentials like dining out or subscription services to free up funds.

• “I don’t know where to start.” That’s what coaching is for. A good coach will guide you every step of the way, making the process simple and manageable.

Final Thoughts

Achilles ultimately decided to commit to his health. He realized that the cost of doing nothing was far greater than the cost of investing in himself.

If you’re on the fence, remember this: everyone will pay for their health. You can choose to pay upfront by being proactive, or you can pay later with hospital bills, lost productivity, and regret. The choice is yours.

Your health isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity. And it’s not “too expensive”—it’s the best investment you’ll ever make.

Have a great day,

Coach Joe

P.S. There’s no trailer hitch on a hearse. You can’t take your stuff with you. But you can leave behind a legacy of health and happiness for the people who matter most.

Joseph Arangio helps 40+ men and women get leaner, stronger, and happier. He's delivered over 100,000 transformation programs to satisfied clients around the globe. If you want to lose weight from home, with the best online age-management personal trainer, or you want to visit the best longevity personal trainer in the Lehigh Valley, you can take a free 14-day trial.