As someone who enjoys good conversation, I find myself quieter than usual. I find myself listening to exchanges that question my presence in them, immediately realizing, “I have nothing to add to this.”
Conversations can be petty, insightful, silly, or entertaining. They can serve as a point of education, admonishment, or simply fun. Yet, lately, I have listened to exchanges that have dulled the soul.
I often observe folks I have not seen in a while, and once I realize nothing has changed, it becomes obvious that their environment is not conducive to growth. Their conversations are not challenging them.
I decided, enough!
Enough of showing up in places and spaces that knowingly will not educate me, encourage me, or entertain me.
I am only showing up to spaces and places that are willing to lift each other up, spaces that live in the present and not the past, spaces that will stop comparing and complaining.
I challenge you!
Find spaces that are moving forward, growing, creating, participating, volunteering, and dreaming.
Find people who are helping others, showing up for others, forgiving others, and celebrating others.
And if you realize your circle is not providing any of these opportunities, become the person in your group who challenges them to do better.
Start having different conversations. Start having different experiences. Expand your circle. There are many opportunities to grow and learn.
Take the risk that you have been avoiding. Take a chance on yourself.
As someone once said “be the change you want to see in the world”…start with changing your conversation!
I challenge you!