SparkCast Episode
The SparkCast episode is not just a reading of the article below; it’s a lively discussion based on the topic of the article, so you don’t want to miss it!
What’s the One Thing You Wish You’d Started a Long Time Ago?
Maybe it’s learning Spanish. Maybe it’s contributing to a retirement fund. Maybe it’s just getting around to reading that classic novel on your shelf. We all have those “if only” moments that can sting with regret. There’s a beautiful and wise Chinese Proverb that perfectly captures this feeling and, more importantly, gives us the solution: “The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now.” This isn’t just a nice quote; it’s one of the most profound and actionable pieces of advice you’ll ever receive.
Let’s Talk About the Ghost of 20 Years Ago
The first part of the proverb is pure genius because it validates our feelings. It says, “You’re right. It would have been great if you started earlier.” It acknowledges the regret. That tree you planted 20 years ago would be magnificent today, offering shade, bearing fruit. Thinking about that can hurt. And it’s okay to feel that pang. This quote doesn’t scold you for procrastinating; it meets you right where you are, in that moment of looking back and wishing you’d done things differently.
The Paralyzing Trap of “It’s Too Late”
The danger of dwelling on that 20-year-old ghost, however, is that it can become a trap. This feeling of being “too far behind” is one of the most common reasons we never start at all. We think, “What’s the point now? I’m already 40; I’ll never be fluent in French.” Or, “I’ve wasted so much time; I’ll never catch up on my savings.” The regret over the first best time completely paralyzes us, preventing us from ever getting to the second best time. We get so focused on the past that we forfeit the future.
The Incredible, Action-Packed Power of “Now”
This is where the second half of the proverb rides in like a superhero. “The second best time is now.” This simple phrase is the ultimate antidote to regret. It gently shifts your focus from the one thing you can’t change (the past) to the one thing you have absolute power over (the present moment). “Now” is where every single journey begins. “Now” is when you can plant the seed. It won’t be a towering tree tomorrow, but if you don’t plant it now, in five years you’ll be looking back at today with the exact same regret. This proverb is a call to action, an invitation to grant your future self the gift you wish your past self had given you.
So, What’s Your Tree?
The beauty of this saying is that “the tree” can be anything.
- Is it a financial tree? The best time to start saving was with your first paycheck. The second best time is now.
- Is it a health tree? The best time to start exercising and eating well was years ago. The second best time is now.
- Is it a relationship tree? The best time to apologize or reconnect with a loved one was right after the argument. The second best time is now.
Don’t be overwhelmed by the thought of a giant tree. You don’t have to grow it all today. You just have to find a shovel and dig one small hole. What is the tiniest first step you can take, right now?
What is the “tree” you are going to plant today? Declare it in the comments below and let’s cheer each other on!
Deep Discussion Questions:
- What is a “tree” you successfully planted in the past that you are now enjoying the “shade” from? What did it take to get started?
- Besides “it’s too late,” what other excuses do we make to avoid planting our trees? (e.g., “I don’t have time,” “I don’t know how,” “I might fail”).
- How can you apply this proverb to something non-personal, like a community project or a global problem like climate change?
Speaking Challenge:
Choose a “tree” you want to plant in your life. In 60 seconds, deliver a motivational speech to yourself about why you are going to start now. Acknowledge the regret of the past, then focus on the power and promise of the present.
Hint for English Learners: Use powerful, action-oriented verbs. “I will no longer…” “Today, I am choosing to…” “Even if it’s just a small step, I will…” This is great practice for using future tense and motivational language.
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