The Context of Focus and Thought

In discussions about race, society, and personal priorities, it is often highlighted that individuals and communities tend to focus primarily on their own needs, families, and ambitions. A poignant observation from a white friend encapsulates this reality: “You spend all your time thinking about us, and we don’t spend any of our time thinking about you. Therefore, if you’re not thinking about you, and we damn sure ain’t thinking about you, who’s thinking about you?”

This statement carries profound implications for self-awareness, priorities, and the allocation of mental energy within marginalized communities.

Shifting the Narrative

The reflection reveals a critical gap in focus: a disproportionate amount of energy is spent by some individuals or groups on external validation, comparison, or reaction. Meanwhile, the groups they focus on are preoccupied with their own internal priorities, such as family, community, education, and business. This disconnect underscores the need for a shift in narrative:

1. Prioritizing Self and Community: The lesson is clear—to grow and thrive, one must prioritize their own well-being, goals, and community development.
2. Breaking the Cycle of Comparison: By continually measuring oneself against others who are not reciprocating that attention, energy is diverted from meaningful self-improvement.

The Impact of Misplaced Attention

When a group or individual spends too much time focusing on others, several consequences arise:

• Loss of Self-Investment: Valuable time and resources that could be spent on personal or communal development are wasted.
• Emotional Drain: Constantly seeking validation or reacting to perceived neglect can lead to frustration, resentment, and low self-esteem.
• Stagnation: Without intentional focus on self-driven progress, opportunities for growth, innovation, and success are diminished.

The Call to Think About Yourself

The solution lies in reclaiming the narrative. To think about oneself is not an act of selfishness but an essential step toward empowerment. This involves:

1. Defining Personal Goals: What are your aspirations, and how can you work toward them independently of external perceptions?
2. Building Strong Communities: Invest in your family, friends, and local networks to create a foundation of mutual support and growth.
3. Fostering Self-Worth: Recognize your intrinsic value without relying on comparisons or external acknowledgment.

A Broader Perspective

This principle applies universally, not just to the racial dynamics highlighted in the initial reflection. Societies, groups, and individuals across the board benefit from prioritizing internal goals over external comparisons. When everyone focuses on their own development, the collective potential of humanity expands exponentially.

Conclusion

The observation that “white folks are not even thinking about black people” underscores a profound truth: growth and progress require self-focus and intentional effort. By redirecting energy toward self-investment, individuals and communities can break free from cycles of comparison and reaction, creating a more empowered and fulfilling reality. Who’s thinking about you? It must first and foremost be you.