When I was in-between jobs I considered what I would do if I had to enroll in the ACA. After much consideration I feel the ACA does not suit my needs, nor do I agree with it in principle. So, I decided I would opt-out. But then I learned, I could not opt-out as I hoped. I felt this requirement was yet another government program that I was being forced to help subsidize and sadly, I probably would participate in, just like unemployment and Medi-cal. So, instead I decided I would simply pay the fine. A month later I found a higher paying position working in Silicon Valley and so I was spared the ACA headaches.
I am pretty darn responsible and in good health; while I have paused training to run 8ks or marathons, I still challenge myself and stay active. So, looking back I found the ACA and all the political spin ultimately meant nothing to me, it is all just noise. I gladly take my chances with no required health coverage and proactively take responsible care of all areas of my life.