I’ll be the first to admit it—I get really excited when all my numbers are moving in the right direction:
- A stellar sleep score of 96? Yes, please!
- Progress on the scale—finally headed in the right direction. Oh, the joy!
- Stocks trending up (feeling like the lioness of Wall St. here!).
- To-do lists with satisfying check marks. Stop it, this day is TOO good!
It feels like everything is aligning for a day to remember. But then comes the question: What happens when all your metrics are perfect, yet your heart feels … empty?
We live in a world that celebrates metrics: productivity, progress, and performance. Sure, those wins feel amazing, but numbers alone don’t sustain us. We all know what happens to our confidence when those numbers start heading in the wrong direction.
Now, imagine hitting every target but having:
- No midmorning conversations with your daughter, laughing over her latest Starbucks mishap.
- No deep, meaningful moments in God’s Word with your spouse before the world wakes up.
- No coffee date with a friend who needs to talk through a struggle.
At the end of the day, the satisfaction of a perfect to-do list pales in comparison to the joy of real connection.
When you look back on your all-time great days, are they defined by metrics? Likely not. Instead, they’re filled with meaningful moments:
- Side-aching laughter over a family memory involving the dog and the moose. Hint: Dash the dog was victorious!
- An “accidental” conversation with a stranger that changed how our family saw life.
- A quiet evening by the fire with your spouse, saying nothing but understanding everything.
For women navigating midlife, this realization is especially poignant. Whether you’re adjusting to an empty nest, rediscovering who you are beyond “mom,” or seeking to reignite your purpose, the questions often arise:
- Am I prioritizing what really matters?
- Why do I still feel empty, even when I’m achieving my goals?
- How can I nurture the relationships that bring me joy and fulfillment?
The answer lies in prioritizing people over metrics.
Here are three simple steps to shift your focus from numbers to connections. These actions will require you to step out of your comfort zone and engage with the people in your world:
1. Hug Someone You Love
Physical touch releases oxytocin, the “love hormone,” fostering connection and reducing stress. Whether it’s your spouse, child, or close friend, take a moment to embrace someone dear to you. A hug isn’t just physical—it’s a reminder that you’re loved and supported. Come on – we can all use a hug now and then!
2. Reach Out to Someone Who Matters
Call that friend who’s been on your heart but not on your calendar. Send a heartfelt text or write a note of appreciation. These small gestures often mean more than we realize. When we see something – say something! Don’t wait for the perfect moment or fear saying the wrong thing—just reach out. Showing up matters.
3. Thank God for Your Relationships
Pause and reflect on the people God has placed in your life. Relationships are a divine gift, and cultivating them requires intentionality. Ask for His wisdom to love others well and courage to reconnect where there’s distance. Gratitude is the key to keeping your heart aligned with what truly matters.
Your BEST DAY EVER isn’t defined by flawless numbers. It’s shaped by the people you laugh with, the moments you create, and the love you give and receive.
Don’t let today pass without prioritizing someone who matters to you. Make that call. Send that text. Give that hug. Let someone know they’re valued and loved.
Metrics are fun, but memories are forever. Start creating yours today.
