GIGO is an acronym from the early days of computer science. Garbage in, garbage out refers to the truism that the quality of what a computer program produces is dependent on the quality of the data you input.
Erroneous or incomplete information will result in incorrect calculations, unreliable simulations, inaccurate predictions and misleading conclusions.
The same principle applies to our lives.
CONSIDER YOUR THOUGHTS
On both a conscious and unconscious level, our thoughts influence our emotions and our behaviour. Our thinking shades our interpretation of reality our circumstances, our sense of self and the behaviour of others.
Have you ever had a dark day when everything seemed to go wrong and you couldnt see the bright side of your situation?
Most people bounce back when their circumstances improve. Some people continue a dark cycle where cynical and pessimistic thoughts narrow their perspective and feed anger, frustration, anxiety and depression. Those negative emotions in turn influence behaviour and relationships usually with more negative results.
Some people are more proactive. In the face of a challenging situation, they recognize their own resources and where they can be applied to improve their situation.
YOU ARE WHAT YOU EAT
Your body is more complex than a computer or any other machine, and it is sensitive to what we consume. The healthy functioning of every system and every cell relies on what you put in your mouth.
A healthy diet is like premium fuel in your tank. What you eat serves as the building blocks of your cells. You really are what you eat. Garbage in, garbage incorporated.
Not one diet is perfect for everyone. A high fat diet should be avoided in those at risk for arterial disease, and a starchy, high glycemic index diet is inappropriate for those with diabetes. Sodium can raise the blood pressure of those who are salt-sensitive.
Although a diet high in fibre, fruits and vegetables with moderate amounts of fish and healthy nuts such as almonds is generally recommended, it may not be appropriate to an individual with specific food allergies.
Of course, street drugs and excessive alcohol have negative effects on both our bodies and brains.
We would all do well to be mindful of everything we put into our mouths.
YOUR RELATIONSHIPS
Your friends and family have a major influence on both your beliefs and your behaviour. Your conversations affect your opinions about others and feelings about yourself. They can shade the way you see the rest of the world.
This isnt always positive. Friends can normalize unenlightened attitudes and unhealthy behaviour. Bigoted friends can narrow your perspective of others. Chauvinistic friends can foster negative attitudes towards the opposite sex.
If all your friends smoke, you are more likely to and it will be harder for you to quit.
Every week, at least one of my patients is surprised when I tell them that the healthy daily limit for alcohol is 2 standard drinks. A standard drink is five-ounces of wine (12 per cent alcohol), 1.5-ounces of spirits (40 per cent) or 12 oz of beer (five per cent). Young people may be used to drinking a six-pack on a weekend not realizing that they are binge drinkers.
On the other hand, positive, active and health-conscious friends can lift us up and keep us company on hikes and bike rides. Open-minded friends can share different points of view and encourage us to discover new experiences.
Consider what you put into your relationships. We tend to take them for granted. How much do you contribute to the health of your communication? In your own mind and heart, how do you nurture positive thoughts and feelings about others? How do your words and actions affect others?
What we put into our lives has significant effects on what we get back.
Dr. Davidicus Wong is a family physician and writer. His articles appear regularly in this paper. You can read more about achieving your positive potential in life at davidicuswong.wordpress.com.
