I want to begin by sending each and every one of you a lot of gentleness and love as the end of the year approaches, and we are often faced with different emotions. Amidst reflections and the anticipation of a new chapter, may you find peace in cherished memories and hope in the possibilities that lie ahead.
Recently, I can't seem to stop listening to Sampha's new album, "Lahai," particularly the tracks "Only," "Suspended," "Spirit 2.0," "Jonathan L. Seagull," and "Stereo Color Cloud" are on constant replay.
Here is one of my favorite verses from the song the Stereo Color Cloud:
The trees are talking in a frequency
Something close to sound
I hear them questioning like
Who do you care about?
Who's there when you're down?
Who do you care about?
Watch who you care about…”
Other favorite verses come from the song Jonathan L. Seagull:
“Even though we've been through same
Doesn't always mean we feel the same
Doesn't always mean we heal the same
You're not me and that's okay
Seasons come, seasons cry
Seasons grow and seasons die
How high can a bird ever fly-ever fly?”
These verses are beautifully crafted and relatable to what we tend to experience through our individual journeys—whether it be inner challenges or in relation to others. The more I pay attention to the meaning of words, the more I reflect on the space we hold for others, as well as the space others hold for us during the various chapters of our lives.
While many of us may not often acknowledge it, the energy around us shapes who we are, how we think, and how we operate. It's crucial to be intentional not only with the company we keep but also with the habits we form. Our surroundings and the daily routines we cultivate contribute significantly to our overall well-being and the paths we carve in our journey.
And so, I have been contemplating the significance of prioritizing quality over quantity in life, and the more I reflect on it, the more I accept that I am in a season of my life where my space is sacred. I am seeking to surround myself with genuine, loving, intentional, and supportive energy. It's a time where I value deep connections and meaningful interactions, choosing authenticity and purposeful relationships. As I navigate this phase, I am also honest with myself about my capacity to welcome new energy into my life and how I can nurture the people in my life. It's an introspective journey where I actively cultivate an environment that aligns with my values, fostering connections that serve as pillars of strength and encouragement, contributing to a diverse picture of shared experiences and mutual growth.
Moreover, I used to believe that the more friends I had, the better. Quantity seemed to overshadow quality in my perspective. However, as I grew, I realized the profound significance of having 4-5 solid friends. These are the individuals who know everything about you, who are honest, and who are always there when you need them, even if you don't talk to them every day. It's a realization that building true, genuine connections is challenging and requires a considerable amount of energy.
Now, I cherish the beauty of a select few friendships over a multitude of acquaintances. Having those who truly understand and support you is one of the most beautiful things in the world. Genuine connections go beyond mere numbers; they are about the depth of understanding and mutual trust.
It becomes evident that understanding ourselves is crucial in this journey. Knowing who we are allows us not only to appreciate the awesome people we have in our lives but also to call in the types of relationships and opportunities that align with our authentic selves.
We are what we consume—be it food, conversations, or the content in our minds. Our choices shape not just our physical well-being but also define our thoughts, beliefs, and who we are.
Lastly, sometimes, we fear letting go of the past because of moments of joy shared with people who are no longer part of it. However, how deeply should one dwell in the past? Does it jeopardize the present or obscure one's view of current relationships? Creating room for the new while holding onto things that no longer serve a purpose in your life can become an internal struggle involving identity and purpose. It's crucial to permit ourselves to grieve the past without residing in it or letting it shape the future that lies ahead.
Questions on Quality Over Quantity:
In what areas of your life do you prioritize quality over quantity, and why?
How has choosing quality over quantity influenced your relationships with others?
Can you think of a specific instance where opting for quality brought more fulfillment than seeking quantity?
When it comes to habits, do you believe having fewer high-quality habits is more beneficial than a larger number of less impactful ones?
In what ways do you apply the principle of quality over quantity to your personal and professional goals?
How does prioritizing quality over quantity contribute to a sense of purpose and satisfaction in your daily life?
I would love to read some of your answers in the comments, or you can share them on your social media to generate more conversation around this topic.
Choosing quality over quantity is a guiding philosophy that shapes various aspects of our lives. In relationships, it means valuing profound connections over superficial interactions. When it comes to habits, quality routines take precedence, offering more impact and significance than a multitude of less meaningful ones. This mentality extends to our goals, urging us to focus on a select few that align with our values.
In essence, prioritizing quality over quantity is about distilling life down to its core. It's the recognition that depth surpasses breadth, and significance outweighs sheer volume. In this intentional approach, relationships become meaningful, habits become transformative, mentality becomes resilient, and goals become purposeful milestones in our journey.
Affirmations to carry with you today:
Such a timely post. The topic of friends and platonic relationships has been a revolving one for me this year. During the twists and turns of the year, I found myself meeting new people, but then having to move after a couple of months due to life circumstances. This was very challenging for me and over all of the instances it has happened I’ve made it my mission to continue to get to know these people. And although my main friend group has been long standing, the feeling of newness and meeting someone at an adult stage of their life has been nurturing all around and has introduced me to aspects of myself I didn’t know about. Your writing is serving as a reminder to continue to be open to these possibilities and new people and the ways in which they serve their purpose in my life. Thank you. I look forward to reading more from you in new year ✨