On a recent episode of the Meaningful Dividends Podcast, I sat down with Dr. Kyle Couperus — an Army veteran, emergency physician, and lifelong student of healthy living. While his professional journey spans battlefield medicine, emergency rooms, and medical innovation, our conversation turned toward something that affects us all: how to live longer, healthier lives.
As a Tacoma, Washington financial advisor, I often hear clients worry most about running out of money in retirement. But the truth is, most of us will run out of time long before we run out of money. That’s why health is the most important investment any of us can make.
Consistency Beats Intensity
The guiding principle of our discussion with Dr. Kyle Couperus was simple yet profound: consistency beats intensity.
Many people chase extreme diets or intense workout programs, hoping for quick results. But much like trying to “time the market,” this approach rarely works for the long haul. Instead, the biggest gains — both in wealth and in health — come from steady, sustainable habits.
“Going for a walk three times a week for a year will do far more for your long-term health than two weeks of all-out exercise followed by burnout,” Couperus noted.
Just as consistent contributions create financial compounding, small daily choices compound into greater health span and longevity.
Movement as Medicine
One of the most powerful predictors of long-term health is daily movement. According to Dr. Couperus, the goal isn’t elite performance, but avoiding inactivity.
- Take the stairs instead of the elevator.
- Go for a 20-minute walk after dinner.
- Stretch before bed.
- Do light strength training a few times a week.
Couperus explained: “Do something that makes you break a sweat, and try not to go more than two days without moving your body.”
This isn’t about perfection; it’s about building a rhythm of activity that lasts a lifetime.
Small Habits, Big Returns
In both investing and health, small, repeatable habits matter more than big, unsustainable efforts.
- Nutrition: Swap soda for water, add more vegetables, cook one extra meal at home each week.
- Sleep: Keep a consistent bedtime, limit screens at night, and create a restful environment.
- Stress: Prioritize recovery — whether through prayer, meditation, or simply taking a walk outdoors.
- Connection: Maintain strong relationships, which are proven to improve longevity and resilience.
These daily decisions, much like steady contributions to a retirement account, create compounding dividends that pay off decades later.
Health and Wealth Go Hand-in-Hand
As a Tacoma Washington financial advisor, I’ve seen firsthand how financial success loses its meaning without the health to enjoy it. A robust portfolio won’t buy you more years if your health breaks down early.
Dr. Kyle Couperus pointed to insights from Ken Fisher’s book The Ten Roads to Riches: one of the best ways to build wealth is simply to live longer. More years mean more opportunities for compounding — both financially and personally.
When we treat health as an investment, the parallels to financial planning are clear:
- Diversify your habits (exercise, nutrition, rest, stress management).
- Automate routines so they become second nature.
- Protect downside risk with preventive care and screenings.
- Reinvest dividends by letting small wins create momentum for bigger ones.
Health as True Wealth
The great irony is that many people spend their healthiest years trading time for money, only to spend money later trying to buy back health. But health is one asset you cannot outsource — it requires consistent, personal investment.
At Kimball Creek Partners, we talk often about true wealth being more than money. It’s about having the time, energy, and health to enjoy what you’ve built. By investing in your health — consistently and intentionally — you ensure your financial wealth translates into a richer, more meaningful life.
Final Thought
You may never regret missing a hot stock tip, but you may regret the walk you didn’t take, the night of sleep you skipped, or the years of health lost to inconsistency.
Because whether in finance or in life, the principle holds true: consistency beats intensity — every time.