The Journey Inward

Last week I read an article on Substack by Cory Allen, published on Nov. 3rd. His ideas were not new to me, but much of his language raised my level of understanding and gave me some nuggets to think about. He began by acknowledging the idea that we are the average of the 5 people we spend the most time with, but went on to empower the reader by saying we have the power to change how we are influenced. He called this “curating our own ecosystem of thoughts and mindsets”, and said we create a “powerful circle of possibility.”

Cory Allen was suggesting we use discernment when choosing what and who we allow into our world. Again not new to me, but I loved thinking of this as curating my ecosystem. This piece of writing that prompted self assessment.

• Audit your current relationships. I give regular thought to this notion to ensure that the people in my life enhance it in some way. I consider how often, how deep, and how vulnerable I’m willing to get and hold firm boundaries where needed.
• Seek out people who inspire you. I am surrounded by people who inspire me in different ways and in different areas of my life – personally, professionally, holistically, spiritually, emotionally, physically.
• Be intentional with your time. I definitely subscribe to this notion. I focus at work and give my students and co-teachers my all, but when I leave work, I turn my eye to my other interests, hobbies, friends and self care routines. Solitude is a big part of that, as my day is spent interacting with others from start to finish. I enjoy time with my dogs, time outdoors, exercise, reading, writing, going through my pictures, talking to and meeting friends, watching tv, and planning trips. I’ve just begun a new job, so right now the demands are greater on me-getting in earlier, staying later and having to bring work home during the week and on weekends. But I balance that with greater self care and recognize that this learning curve will even out. I enjoy the challenge and new territory.
• Consciously curate your content. I am very intentional about the podcasts I listen to, the accounts I follow on Instagram, the shows I watch and books I read, the music I listen to, the news I watch and the political views I entertain.

I felt like this article was confirmation of how I’m already living, but was a great reminder to constantly assess the company I keep, the content I allow, and the care I take with my time. Feeling positive, confident, well rested, self regulated, inspired, relaxed, at peace, fit, healthy and open minded are the keys to a happy, joyful life for me.

Photo: Vicaya. Miami, FL. 10.5.24