“Throw moderation to the winds and the greatest pleasures bring the greatest pains.” Democritus.

The word “moderation” usually comes to mind when we are talking about food and obesity. It sounds like the lose-weight-in-a-healthy-way type of advice, but it does not seem to be connected with other good things in our life. Can you have too much love that will bring pain into your life, or can you have too much kindness? Can you have too much faith and can you be too health-conscious? It seems that moderation is not always needed, isn’t it?

It is difficult to stay moderate in the present world because we have such an abundance of pleasures and opportunities that are so easily accessible. We can eat exotic fruit from all over the world, we can buy a lot of toys for ourselves, we can travel anywhere we want to (well, almost anywhere), we can help people with a touch of a button (donating to charities online), we can pamper ourselves and we can afford so many other things.

We are constantly stimulated with new pleasures that bring happiness into our lives. But what happens when the “high” effect is gone? You need more stimulants to feel good and at a certain point simple pleasures that are available in everyday life do not work anymore. You lose the ability to be happy just because you are healthy and you had a decent day at work.

Here are 6 values of moderation that I find vital for balanced living:

1. You can experience more joy and happiness.
2. You will be healthy.
3. Moderation leads to financial stability and balance.
4. Moderation gives clarity in life.
5. Moderation leads to spirituality.
6. Moderation brings your life in balance.

Here are 11 suggestions for achieving moderation:

1. Reconnect with your senses.
2. Get reacquainted with your attention span.
3. Stop multitasking and be present in the moment.
4. Take a fast from stimulation.
5. Delay your gratification.
6. Choose your thoughts wisely.
7. Adopt a balanced lifestyle.
8. Dispense with the bad habits.
9. Be appreciative of all the good things that have come your way in life.
10. Positive thoughts trigger positive actions.
11. Focus on your personal power.

Adhering to the above tips, could not only help you in achieving moderation in life, but more importantly, make your life better and more fulfilling. A richer, fuller life can be within anyone’s grasp—but only if you are willing to stay motivated throughout your life’s exciting journey. Take action today to reap a rich harvest tomorrow.

Moderation is not always easy but it is vital for balanced living. Moderation requires work and willpower, and it is a constant process of self-growth. I am choosing this path because this is the right road for me. Is it for you?

“Be moderate in order to taste the joys of life in abundance.” Epicurus

Keep it balanced!

Howard M. Cohen is a South Florida-based Registered Mental Health Counseling Intern.