> “If no one cares, why bother?” And that thought, once planted, grows roots.
this! we'll never know how many people aren't sharing their thoughts/work/gift because they feel like no one cares. Doing my best now to support people early & often, and let that spark fly
This is well-articulated. Your line "If someone is persistently indifferent to you - but warm to others - that’s a signal" hits home.
It brings me to one of my previous workplaces when I was new. People weren't warming up to me and had their defenses up as they engaged with the new guy. I stayed for less than 2 years, in contrast to my current workplace, where I'm in my sixth year.
Looking back, the subtle difference is always being heard, that you matter, that you are valued even by your presence.
This is a great post. I think many people aim to be stoic or are too afraid to speak up, and as mentioned in your writing: too tired to give their presence…but a lot of it is plain, common distraction.
Before cell phones, it was easy to pay attention. Now it takes effort that many just won’t give.
> “If no one cares, why bother?” And that thought, once planted, grows roots.
this! we'll never know how many people aren't sharing their thoughts/work/gift because they feel like no one cares. Doing my best now to support people early & often, and let that spark fly
That’s such a powerful intention - and so needed.
Sometimes one kind word or moment of presence can stop that thought from taking root.
This is well-articulated. Your line "If someone is persistently indifferent to you - but warm to others - that’s a signal" hits home.
It brings me to one of my previous workplaces when I was new. People weren't warming up to me and had their defenses up as they engaged with the new guy. I stayed for less than 2 years, in contrast to my current workplace, where I'm in my sixth year.
Looking back, the subtle difference is always being heard, that you matter, that you are valued even by your presence.
Thank you for sharing this - what a powerful contrast.
That subtle shift - from indifference to being truly seen - can change everything.
Glad you found a place where you’re valued ⚡️⚡️⚡️
This is a great post. I think many people aim to be stoic or are too afraid to speak up, and as mentioned in your writing: too tired to give their presence…but a lot of it is plain, common distraction.
Before cell phones, it was easy to pay attention. Now it takes effort that many just won’t give.
Thank you for this thoughtful note.
Yes - “common distraction” is such a quiet culprit.
We don’t even notice how often we check out of the moment.
And you’re right: presence used to be natural… now it’s a choice.
A rare and valuable one.