Welcome back! As May unfolds, I’ve contemplated the value of patience and depth in a world that constantly screams for speed and brevity. This month, my thoughts wander through the intricate world of detective fiction, the often-overlooked virtues of the “long road,” and the fading art of genuine conversation. Let’s talk about it.
What I am Reading:
My literary journey continues through the captivating realm of Michael Connelly’s Harry Bosch series. Currently, I’m immersed in book 37 out of the vast 39-book Bosch universe, titled “Desert Star” and each installment has been a genuine pleasure. If you’re a fan of meticulously crafted “who done it” detective novels, I wholeheartedly recommend starting with “The Black Echo,” the series opener.
My wife introduced me to Harry Bosch–and as I near the end of my incredible journey with Harry Bosch, a sliver of hope remains that Michael Connelly isn’t quite finished with this iconic character. For those unfamiliar, Harry Bosch is a complex and compelling Los Angeles Police Department homicide detective. A Vietnam War veteran with a strong moral compass and a penchant for bending the rules to achieve justice, Bosch navigates the gritty underbelly of LA with relentless determination.
The Harry Bosch universe is rich and multifaceted. Connelly has created a believable and immersive world filled with flawed but fascinating characters, intricate plots, and a deep sense of place. Beyond the compelling mysteries, the series delves into themes of justice, corruption, morality, and the lasting impact of trauma. Bosch’s unwavering commitment to finding the truth, even when it puts him at odds with the system, is a constant source of intrigue. Connelly masterfully weaves together police procedural details with compelling character development, making each book a satisfying and thought-provoking read. If you haven’t yet encountered Harry Bosch, don’t let another day pass without getting acquainted with this legendary detective.
Something I am Interested In: The Value of the Long Road
In our hyper-efficient world, where shortcuts, hacks, and instant gratification reign supreme, I’ve found myself increasingly drawn to the concept of “taking the long road.” While quick fixes might offer immediate results, there’s an undeniable value in investing the time and effort to truly learn and develop a skill or habit through the more traditional, often slower, method. Not everything benefits from a hack.
Here are five reasons why staying away from shortcuts can be beneficial:
- Deeper Understanding: Taking the time to learn a skill thoroughly provides a more profound and nuanced understanding of the underlying principles. You grasp the “why” behind the “how,” leading to greater mastery.
- Stronger Foundation: Skills and habits built through consistent effort and learning tend to be more robust and sustainable in the long run. Shortcuts often lack the solid foundation needed to withstand challenges.
- Increased Adaptability: When you truly understand a process, you’re better equipped to adapt to unexpected situations and troubleshoot problems effectively. Hacks often provide a narrow solution that crumbles when things deviate.
- Greater Sense of Accomplishment: The satisfaction derived from mastering something through dedicated effort is far more profound than the fleeting gratification of a shortcut. The journey itself becomes a source of pride.
- Unforeseen Benefits: The long road often leads to unexpected discoveries and insights along the way. You might stumble upon related skills or knowledge that wouldn’t have been apparent through a quicker route.
Something I’m Pondering: The Lost Art of Conversation
As I gear up for the release of the “Catching Up with Corey” podcast – something I’m incredibly excited to share with you all – I’ve had numerous conversations. Through these discussions, a somewhat concerning realization has emerged: the art of genuine conversation seems to be fading in our 255-character-limited world. The rapid-fire exchanges and superficial interactions of our digital landscape appear to be hindering our ability to cultivate deep, long-lasting relationships.
This leads me to ponder: Do deep relationships truly matter in today’s world? In an era of fleeting connections and online personas, is there still value in investing the time and effort required to build meaningful bonds with others? What do you think? Comment on this post on my Facebook Page.
Personally, I believe the answer is a resounding yes. Deep relationships provide a sense of belonging, support during challenging times, and shared joy in moments of triumph. They enrich our lives in ways that superficial interactions simply cannot.
So, how do we cultivate these vital connections in a world that often pulls us towards the shallow end? It requires intentionality, active listening, empathy, and a willingness to invest time and effort in nurturing those bonds. It means putting down our devices, looking people in the eye, and engaging in meaningful dialogue.
Money Tip I Recommend: When the Well Runs Dry, Stop Spending
My money tip for May is simple yet powerful: If there is no money left, stop spending.
In our credit-driven society, it’s easy to supplement a lack of funds with plastic. However, this habit is a breeding ground for ineffective and detrimental money management. It allows debt to accumulate and encourages a lifestyle beyond our means. This is a core reason for my cautious stance on credit cards. While responsible credit use is possible, relying on it to bridge the gap between income and expenses is a dangerous path.
If you’ve been following my guidance, you know that your budget priorities should always be what I call the “Four Walls”: Shelter, Food, Transportation, and Utilities. When faced with a choice about what to pay, these come first, without exception. Only then do you consider other expenses.
But the fundamental principle remains: if there is no money left to spend after covering your essentials, transferring that spending to a credit card simply means there will be even less money available when the bill arrives. It’s a temporary fix with long-term consequences.
Therefore, my advice for May is straightforward: If the money is gone, stop spending. This forces you to confront your financial reality, make necessary adjustments, and ultimately build healthier and more sustainable money habits.
Let’s Talk.
What are your thoughts on the value of taking the “long road” in a world of shortcuts? Do you agree that the art of conversation is fading, and if so, how do you cultivate deeper relationships? What are your strategies for stopping spending when funds are low? Share your insights and experiences in the comments below!
Ready to take a deeper dive into building sustainable financial habits and achieving your long-term goals? Schedule a free coaching consultation with me today: https://calendar.app.google/oEyuikwjDLMoPxtf7
If you found this newsletter insightful, please share it with your friends and family! Let’s spread the word about building a more intentional and fulfilling life.
Resources:
- The Harry Bosch Series by Michael Connelly (starting with The Black Echo)
Corey Stokes 