Who Cares?
Let me start by saying I cared too much about everything six months ago. I spent too much time worrying about things that didn’t deserve my energy. As an empath, I would absorb the emotions and pain of others. I would feel it, hold it, and unknowingly create space for it—space that I didn’t have to give but somehow found a way. This included worrying about anything and everything while my own mental and emotional health took a hit.
A lot has changed in my world over the past year.
AND
I had spent 33 years worrying about others; I didn't know how to prioritize myself. As a leader, I cared so deeply about my people that I always came last. I had yet another choice to make in this new, uncharted season of life. I had to shift to a version of myself that I hadn’t yet met—a me that I dreamed of—a me that only I could choose to become. I say become because this transformation doesn’t happen overnight. This choice has ultimately changed the trajectory of my life.
At the end of the day, I chose me. AND I continue to choose myself every day. Not only did I choose, but I am actively challenging myself to care less. Not because I don’t care, but because I’ve learned the hard way that no matter how much I care or how deeply I care, I can only control myself—my internal feelings and voice. I’ve chosen to live a life in forward motion, focusing on my thoughts, feelings, and actions, emphasizing how my actions (modeling) impact others.
At the end of the day, I had to choose between staying upset, stressed, anxious, worried, and overwhelmed by harboring the emotions and pain of others or intentionally focusing on my energy, healing, and growth.
I used to be terrified of making mistakes, falling short of the next ‘finish line,’ and outperforming myself.
AND now?
Who cares if I make a mistake? Who cares if I achieve that next accolade? Who cares if I am perfect? Because I know that I’m not, and I have never been more proud of it. When you can speak your truth, show up as your authentic and genuine self, and look yourself in the mirror with pride, your perspective on ‘caring’ might change too.
Love you all, mean it.
