YOLO.  It means You Only Live Once and people have been using it a lot lately. You’ve probably heard it in songs,  have seen it on t-shirts or maybe you’ve even seen it on Zac Efron’s hand, because he has it tattooed. While carpe diem has more of an “embrace life and savor the moment” flavor, YOLO is often used in reference to reckless behavior. It seems to be used most in instances where people take unnecessary and sometimes irresponsible risks.

So, what kinds of risks have been taken in the name of YOLO?

It’s too late to ask Ervin McKinness, the 21-year-old aspiring rapper who was killed in a fiery car crash last year. Minutes before running a red light and hitting a wall at 120 miles per hour, he tweeted, “Driving Drunk af [sic] going 120 drifting corners…#YOLO”

Insurance is all about risk and deciding how much you’re comfortable taking on. Is it worth it to not have a renters insurance policy when a fire destroys most of your belongings? Or not have a life insurance policy when you pass away and your family is forced to deal with the repercussions?

What kinds of risks are YOLO-worthy for you? If they run on the wild side, here are some safer substitutes to consider.

Instead of texting while driving…sing while driving. “Life is a Highway” is an obvious choice for run-of-the-mill road trips. If you’re driving cross-country, try “I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles).”

Instead of smoking and drinking…do something with your life that matters. Don’t use YOLO as an excuse to ruin your life. Make a difference and impact people in a positive way.

Instead of YOLO…eat a Rolo. Read some Paulo Coelho. Hit a movie solo. Wear a bolo. Play polo. Or water polo. Or Marco Polo. Or a piccolo.

The truth is we really do only live once, so why cut your time short by doing something foolish? Make sure your insurance covers you in all aspects of your life to make sure you’re ok if something should happen.

We’re just doing our best to look out for you. If you have any questions let us know by contacting us through our virtual insurance office or calling at 888.304.6678.