Isn’t it funny how the human mind works? As a fairly average, intelligent human being, I thought I knew what made me tick, what was important to me. But I guess it wasn’t obvious enough, so 2024 had to come out and show me. So that it was really obvious.
Being that it’s December, I know I’m not alone in looking back at everything that went on in the past 12 months, and try to figure out what it all meant. And in reflecting, I realized that this year a significant number of friendships have hit a snag, or simply faded.
And what THAT taught me is that relationships are the most important thing in my life. That’s what I value most. The CONNECTIONS. And being around people-yes, often strangers-is how I refuel, how I recharge my batteries.
Spending time with my best friend confirmed that. We went places, met strangers, chatted with folks everywhere. And it was NICE. I had glorious conversations with many folks who came to see my booth at Christmas markets. So you’d think that it’s obvious that being with people makes me happy.
Interestingly, this year I found a number of friendships really shifting, taking a different turn. Some I’m OK giving up. Others...I’m still struggling. In the back of my mind there’s always the whisper:
“did I do something wrong?” “Should I have tried harder?”
And the answer is
I DON’T KNOW.
What I DO know is that the friendships that have thrived are the ones that mean the absolute most to me. The ones where I’ve gone out on a limb and had awkward conversations. And it’s been so worthwhile. Because although things are changing, I am enormously thankful that I have people that will always be in my life, cheering me on, supporting me, no matter what.
In a few hours I’m heading out to a holiday party hosted by Women’s Business Network. This is the one consistent “place” over the years where I’ve met women, made friends and grew. Tonight I’ll be seeing many of these beautiful women and celebrating the end of 2024. If you’re there, please come say hello. If you’re not, I hope you find your own tribe to celebrate the season with.