Diversify Your Sources of Meaning

Last year, I met someone I caught feelings for. We spent a lot of time together and it came at the expense of other parts of my life. I stopped going to Verci as often. I extended the Olive Tree Writing Club hiatus. I wrote less. All that attention and energy went into one person. For a short while, she became my main source of meaning.

When she left, it hit hard. I had pushed my chips to the center of the table, and went all in on her.

But that time and energy that went into her, I started to pour back into my friends, my communities, and my hobbies. I learned to not take them for granted.

Since moving to New York in July 2022, I’ve built a strong foundation. I find meaning through the writing community I host every week. I find meaning in the creative cowering space I’m part of. I’ve come to love fashion and menswear as an outlet for curiosity. And I’m lucky to have a job where I get to learn and earn.

What I learned from that relationship is that when someone new enters your life, don’t lean away from the other parts that bring you joy. Double down on them.