I’ve often said that stupidity can be expensive. I’m speaking from firsthand experience, of course. Through my own stupidity I’ve lost headphones, ear buds, prescription glasses, cell phones, bank cards and even a drone – and that was all in one month during my trip to Thailand.

Stupidity has literally cost me thousands of dollars over my lifetime and I still have a few years left to go. It reminds me of something my grandfather once told me. He said, “Son, every mistake you make brings you one step closer to perfection.” And then he would add the qualifier that some people need more steps than others. Partially because they fail to learn from their mistakes and partially because they just make more mistakes.

I’ve already put in my fair share of steps and I’m still a long way off from being perfect.

Stupidity has caused the demise of many a person who might otherwise be considered intelligent.

Even the smartest of individuals can fall prey to stupidity, even if it’s momentary. Leaving a pot on a burner on the stove. Thinking your 25 when you decide to head down a double diamond ski run only to realize that you’re actually 54 when you wake up in the hospital with a cast on your leg.

Stupidity can manifest itself in something as simple as putting the colours in with the whites when you’re doing the laundry.

Stupidity on a massive level can result in someone like Donald Trump getting elected and the consequences that have resulted, both inside and outside the United States.

What was the Forest Gump quote – “Stupid is as stupid does.” That should be the Trump administration’s motto.

But stupidity can also cost you your life and take the life of others. I’m referring to those people out there who insist on texting while they’re driving, or driving while under the influence, or doing both at the same time.

If you see an accident that’s happened in broad daylight and perfect road conditions, you can be sure that a distracted driver was involved and likely caused it.

But while doing something stupid is usually not something most people would consciously choose, it can be prevented if we just take a moment before making choices.

Everyone knows that texting while driving is stupid, but yet hundreds of people still do it. And while most can get a way with it by sheer luck, the day will come when they’re luck will run out and they will end up paying the price.

So don’t be stupid. It will save you a lot of money and it may just save someone’s life and prevent you from ruining your own.