Some years ago, in 2007, Rabbi Harold Kushner iterated that everything in life is a trade-off and that you pay for everything in one form of currency or another. His emphasis was the idea that every action or choice people make in life comes with a cost.
This idea can be applied to various aspects of life and does not always refer to money. It can represent time, effort, wellbeing, personal comfort, relationships, or even cultural or moral values.
Time, for instance, is a valuable resource that is limited and cannot be replenished. Every choice made takes up time, which could be spent on something else. Pursuing a career may mean less time for family or hobbies.
Personal wellbeing is also a form of currency that can be compromised by choices. Certain decisions may affect physical or mental health, such as smoking, which may bring short-term pleasure but come with longterm health risks.
Personal comfort is another aspect that can be affected by personal choices. People may need to step out of their comfort zones to achieve something, such as public speaking, which can be daunting but can also lead to personal growth and confidence.
Relationships with others can also be impacted by choices. Pursuing a career goal may require relocating, which can strain relationships with family and friends.
Personal choices can also conflict with cultural or moral principles. Taking a job that involves working on a project that contradicts personal values may require a person to compromise their moral stance.
Opportunity cost is an interesting concept which explains that every choice people make means giving up something else. Pursuing one option necessarily means foregoing another. For example, a decision to spend a Saturday volunteering may mean missing out on a social event or a relaxing day at home.
If a choice is made to invest in a business venture, funds may need to be diverted from another project; free time may also need to be sacrificed.
Given that every choice comes with a cost, it is essential to prioritise goals and values. The potential benefits of a decision must be weighed against its potential costs, along with a consideration of what is willing to be sacrificed.
By acknowledging that every choice comes with a cost, more informed decisions can be made, and realistic expectations can be set. It is also worthy of mention that rather than resisting or denying trade-offs, they can be learnt to be accepted and even embraced.