"À l'avenir, je vais consacrer moins de temps à la sentimentalité et plus de temps à la réalité."

The main idea behind this quote is the intention to focus less on emotional and nostalgic feelings and more on practical, real-world concerns. It’s about recognizing that while emotions and memories have their place, they shouldn't overshadow the importance of dealing with the present and making tangible progress. By prioritizing what's real and concrete, one can lead a more balanced, effective, and fulfilling life.

This sentiment often emerges in times of reflection or pivotal moments. Picture someone who's just gone through a major life change—maybe they’ve moved cities, ended a long-term relationship, or started a new career. At these crossroads, people often look back and realize how much time they’ve spent reminiscing about the past or getting caught up in their feelings, rather than taking action and making the most of their current reality.

Consider this example: Imagine a person who’s just retired after a long career. They've spent years thinking about their glory days, reminiscing about their achievements, and cherishing old friendships. But now, faced with a new chapter in life, they understand that clinging to sentimentality can hold them back. So, they decide to direct their energy toward new hobbies, making new friends, and experiencing things they've always wanted to do but never did. This shift from living in the past to embracing the present helps them stay active, engaged, and happy.

If you want to incorporate this wisdom into your own life, it’s all about balance. Start by acknowledging your feelings and memories—they’re part of who you are. But don’t let them dictate your actions. Set tangible goals and take practical steps toward achieving them. Maybe you’ve been stuck in a rut, always thinking about “the good old days” instead of creating new good days. Make a conscious effort to engage with what's happening now. Volunteer, learn a new skill, or plan a small project.

To paint a clearer picture, let’s dive into a relatable scenario. Think about Sarah, a mid-40s professional. She’s always been a bit of a dreamer, reminiscing about her college years and the carefree life she had back then. Her job is stable but uninspiring, and she often finds herself zoning out at work, thinking about the past. One day, a close friend points out that she seems stuck, always talking about what was, instead of what is. This conversation is a wake-up call. Sarah decides to spend less time daydreaming. She starts attending evening classes in a subject she’s passionate about, joins a local community group, and even begins a small side hustle that excites her. Over time, she feels more fulfilled and connected to her present life.

In short, it’s about striking a balance. Nostalgia has its place, but reality is where we live and grow. By focusing on what’s tangible and present, we can create a life that’s not only meaningful but also grounded in reality. So next time you catch yourself drifting into sentimentality, gently bring yourself back to the here and now, and see what amazing things you can achieve.