Doesn’t have to be a thing you bought. Just some thing you didn’t have but then once you did it expanded your scope of actions.
The first obvious example that comes to mind is a car. Plenty of drawbacks to prevalence of cars, but being able to go where I want when I want, and far away, is very transformative.
I’m interested in other examples of things that aren’t just useful, but that open new possibilities.
Dance. Started dancing (taking classes) at 350lbs 4 ½ months ago, still going now at 295lbs. Everything is sooo much easier. First exercise I really liked, improves my flexibility, strength, and cardio. And I feel mad sexy doing it.
I’d highly recommend playing Dance Dance Revolution, if you’re at all interested. Very fun way to burn lots of calories. There’s an open source clone called StepMania. If you really end up enjoying it, you’re going to want to invest in some high quality metal dance pads. Worth every penny though, in my opinion.
By the way, I’m 400 pounds. I know your struggle. I’ve lost well over 100 pounds playing StepMania before. Unfortunately I’ve had some bad events put me in a bad depression, which caused me to gain it back.
I have an RO Afterburner that’s like 16+ years old and still works great. I love it.
As an arcade gamer, myself, I’ve never seen anybody who could play a DDR game like someone who put the time in as part of an exercise regiment. It’s so cool to watch. Like other game masters, but that much more impressive for the physical commitment.
When I run into an exercise gamer at the arcade, I always stick around to see what I can learn by watching. I can often spot them by their vibe - there’s a recognizable patience of someone who already committed to getting their steps in, and is just waiting for the machine to free up.
Admittedly, I usually I don’t learn much by watching, because I’m not anywhere near their league. But I have gotten some great beginner tips from the ones who hang around between sets.
Anyway, mad props. Playing those games for health tends to elevate it to a high art form. It’s crazy cool to watch at the arcade. I suppose any sport can, but of course ‘dance’ is right there in the name.
Edit: Also, sorry you’re dealing with setbacks. I hope things ease up for you.
I’m a crossfit guy, but I absolutely agree. Once you find an exercise you enjoy and look forward to life just seems better.