Pay attention, but not too much.

I came across another version of a post I had seen so many times before… you know, the ones that are a bit self-loathing, and have that “poor me” vibe. It rang so true to me and got me feeling sorry for myself and feeling a bit entitled, so I planned on this entry being my very own version of that. It would have gone something like this…

I paid attention when you didn’t cheer for me.

I paid attention when you didn’t support me.

I paid attention when you bragged about that stranger on the internet, but couldn’t share my work.

I paid attention when I didn’t get the invite.

I paid attention when you only reached out to get “the scoop” and didn’t really care how I was doing.

I paid attention when you believed the lies about me instead of asking me for the actual story.

I paid attention when the apology never came.

I paid attention when I never received that congratulatory call or text.

I paid attention to the condescension.

I paid attention to the disrespect.

I paid attention to it all, so don’t question me when I stop paying attention too.

And while all of this is true, and absolutely okay, there is also another way to look at things. I recently came across another post by Jenna Kutcher that said, “People will always judge what you do and what you don’t do, so you might as well do something with your one precious life. Let them cringe. Let them judge. Let them whisper. Let them watch everything you put out without supporting. All while you soar and achieve and learn and grow.”

My point to all of this? Pay attention, but don’t let it derail you. The ones that are meant to be in your circle and love on you like you love on them will show up. They will show up loudly too. They will buy your merch and wear it proudly, or pay to see your show and sit in the front row. They will tip you double, share your work, and be the first ones in line to get your autograph on the 50 copies that they bought (not given for free).

The only ones criticizing you are the ones that are doing less than you. So hold that head of yours high, and walk in your purpose. You will find your tribe, they will love you like crazy, and you will realize why you paid attention.

Blessings on Blessings,