Cash in the fun chips

I heard the phrase “cash in the fun chips” years ago, but it never hit me until a friend of mine brought it up at his father’s funeral. He used this analogy to describe the mentality behind enjoying the fruits of your labor. Most families have fine china for the special occasions, but even then are hesitant to use it, well; you only get to experience life once, so you might as well cash in the fun chips. You work so hard; there are times when it’s nice to experience a little luxury in its due course. Wear your fancy clothes, put on your best shoes, and play with your most exciting toys. If you’re out there working hard, every day and giving it your all, why not take some time to enjoy the profits of that much physical and mental investment? People grow up hearing their parents or teachers say that they should work now and play later. Back then you’d spend your morning doing chores and then whatever time you had left was unmitigated playtime. Life isn’t like that when you grow up, but there’s nothing stopping you from enjoying yourself now and then. Everyone seems to hoard their fun chips until the point where they can’t be used. Work your butt off and then cash your fun chips and enjoy yourself for your hard work.

Some of the greatest ancient poets and philosophers lived and died through balancing their entertainment with their careers. It was a Roman philosophy, espoused by some of the most famous orators of their time who wrote about the health benefits and life experiences that came from knowing when to work hard and when to take some time in the country, away from their worries and troubles. They believed that the key to a long life and happiness came from understanding the balances in the world. Human beings work for a living, but in doing so it’s important not to become someone who lives to work.