The well-known Dale Carnegie once shared about growing up in the Midwest.  He would play a game with the sheep.  He held a stick across an opening where the sheep had to go through.  The first sheep jumped over the stick and then he removed it.  Even though the opening was completely clear, all the other sheep also leaped as they went through.  There was no reason for them to do that except that the one in front of them did it.

Now before you start thinking how that is just a sheep . . .   Most of us also have a tendency to just do what others are doing.  We probably wouldn’t blindly go jump off a literal cliff because someone else did, but it is quite common with less significant actions.

The problem with that?  Our small, daily behaviors are what feed our more important actions.  If we accept that our best friend eats junk food so it must be ok for us, then eventually that behavior will catch up with us.  We are the one who will face the consequences of the extra pounds and lack of energy for ourselves.

Whether an unhealthy habit of a friend or the strong belief of an expert.  Think before you jump!  Research and investigate for yourself.  Make educated, informed choices.   That is what will enable you to live . . . your life to the fullest.