"We need to start focusing on what matters - on how we feel, and how we feel about ourselves."

The quote is all about shifting our attention to our internal world—our emotions and self-perception. It's advocating for a focus on the things that truly impact our well-being rather than external achievements or societal expectations. So often, we get caught up in chasing goals, meeting deadlines, and trying to live up to an ideal that we've lost sight of what really counts. What makes us happy? How do we feel about our lives and ourselves?

Historically, this kind of sentiment has been echoed in various forms. Think back to the self-help boom in the 80s and 90s with books like "The Power of Now" by Eckhart Tolle or "The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People" by Stephen Covey. People were beginning to realize that success isn't just about climbing the corporate ladder or amassing wealth. It’s more about inner peace and self-satisfaction. This quote fits right into that era of awakening to the importance of mental and emotional health.

Alright, let’s dig into a real-life example. Imagine Sarah, a corporate lawyer on the fast track. She's got the corner office, the high salary, and an impressive resume. But every day, she wakes up dreading her job. She feels empty, disconnected, and worn out. Despite her accomplishments, she’s not happy. One day, she decides to shift her focus—she starts meditating, engages in hobbies she loves, and spends quality time with friends and family. Gradually, she realizes that these moments of joy and connection bring her more fulfillment than her job ever did. Sarah eventually decides to leave her high-stress career for a role that may be less prestigious but aligns more with her passions and values. Her overall well-being skyrockets because she’s focused on what truly matters—how she feels and her sense of self.

So, how can you apply this wisdom? Start by taking stock of your current emotional state. Ask yourself, "How am I feeling today?" and "Do I feel good about myself?" This isn't about being happy all the time—nobody is. It's about being honest with yourself and recognizing areas that need attention. Maybe you’ve been ignoring stress signals or perhaps you’re too hard on yourself. Journaling can be a great tool here, helping you to process and understand your emotions. Another tip: prioritize activities that make you feel good. Whether it’s exercise, reading, cooking, or spending time with loved ones—make these a regular part of your life.

Imagine this: You're at a coffee shop with a friend. You both start talking about life and she admits she’s feeling overwhelmed with work, not really enjoying her days. You suggest she try focusing on her feelings and self-perception. Maybe she starts with small steps—like setting aside time each morning to reflect on her mood or signing up for a yoga class. Over time, she might begin to notice shifts. Perhaps she feels less stressed, more centered. She might even realize that some changes are needed in her life and have the courage to make them.

Remember, it’s not about perfection, it’s about progress. Focusing on how you feel and your self-perception is an ongoing journey. It’s like peeling back layers of an onion—sometimes you find tears, other times you find sweetness. But every layer you peel back gets you closer to the core of your own happiness and well-being. So, give yourself the grace to explore, understand, and nurture your emotional world. It’s worth it, trust me.