ATTENTION

Have you ever had one of those moments when your parents admirably share intricate nuances about who you’ve been your entire life? Ones that they perceive as charming, adorable and highly entertaining, but unbenounced to them, these things can actually be perceived as negative? 

Well the other day my boyfriend and I are talking to my mom on the phone, and Josh mentions a recent public speaking engagement I had. And my mom responds, “oh yes, Ashley loves attention.” 

To which inside I kind of cringed. But why? My mom meant this as a positive thing. 

Usually when we say someone loves attention or doesn’t mind (slash loves) the lime light, it’s usually perceived as a negative thing.  

I will admit, my mom isn’t wrong. I love attention.  I’ve often been deemed a social butterfly. I’ve always loved public speaking, performing and entertaining, and all of these things include ATTENTION.  

So okay I guess I “love attention.” But I am convinced it isn’t for a self absorbed, I need validation, kind of reason.  

I LOVE attention, because in order to truly connect with someone, inspire someone, encourage someone, motivate someone, journey with someone, make someone smile or laugh, or make a little happier... you need their ATTENTION.  

Sometimes we so quickly jump to the conclusion that extroverts or entertainer type personalities love attention for all the wrong reasons, when really they may want attention only so they have the gateway to give something away or add something to someone’s life.  

I think that’s why my mom was speaking about it proudly!  

If you want someone’s attention to see them smile, be encouraged forward in life— I say, go for it, love attention... when it’s actually not about you, but it’s actually about others.  You need people’s attention to make an impact, to be in relationships, to change the world! 

Also, maybe your thoughts are travelling to a place mine have... well what makes people think they can add anything to my life? Let’s be real— we can all add to the lives of people around us, that’s being the loving generous humans we were created to be. It has nothing to do with being self righteous but instead a loving, generous, people oriented person. 

So yes. I’m with my mom. I love attention. Because I love loving, connecting with, and encouraging people. 

Shout out to all the attention lovers! ❤️ 

Ash XO