Quality or Quantity which would you choose? In every area of our lives I believe that Quality will always be more valuable than the amount that we have.
What is Quality?
When I looked up the meaning of the word Quality there were two definitions:
- the standard of something as measured against other things of a similar kind; the degree of excellence of something.
- a distinctive attribute or characteristic possessed by someone or something.
Many times we feel that if we don’t have the ‘quantity’ then perhaps we are lacking in some way. As I’ve gone through life I’m at the stage where I finally realise that Quality will always trump Quantity in the way we live our lives and what we feel is important to us.
5 areas in life where Quality trumps Quantity
You
Living an authentic life and being true yourself and beliefs will set an example of the standard (quality) in life that you live by and also expect in return.
We sometimes feel guilty, especially as working mothers that our children are missing out on time with us. The quality of the time that you give to others in your family and friendships by being present when you are with them is more valuable than being with them 24/7 yet constantly checking your mobile or not engaging with them.
Friendships
When we are younger we judge ourselves and our popularity on the number of friends we have, the number of followers on social media, the number of invitations we receive. My 60 year old self would explain to my 20 year old self that friendship is not based on the number of friends but the quality of friends. Sure, everyone wants to feel popular and liked, however, one or two friends who are steadfast, loyal and love you for the person you are, will always be more precious to us than the shallow friends who run at the first sign of being needed.
Possessions
We read so many articles these days about decluttering our life and I know that I am guilty of having too many possessions and holding onto items for sentimental reasons. Life is actually not about how much you have – wealth, a big house, many possessions – the poorest people can be happier than those who think they have it all.
Health
This should be a priority and a non-negotiable. As Ralph Waldo Emerson said: “The first wealth is health”. We only have one body and we need to make sure that we take care of it.
That means quality health for mind, body and soul:
- in the food that we eat, cutting down on processed foods and alcohol
- savouring one piece of chocolate (dark of course) rather than the whole box
- reducing the portion size but enjoying the taste and texture through mindful eating
- in daily movement (I’ve taken to not using the word ‘exercise’) – even 15 minutes of a quality workout can be more beneficial than spending hours sitting on the couch doing nothing.
- in our mental health – finding ways to keep our minds active and also reducing stress and anxiety through mindfulness and meditation. Feeding our thoughts with positives rather than negative self-talk.
5. Quality of Life
This is a hotly debated subject when we reach the stage in life where we are so ill there is no quality of life left. We are hanging on in pain or discomfort – for what reason? We all have our views on this and that is a discussion for another time. However, the quality of life that we life rather than how long we live is paramount to thriving. Some people live to 100 yet never enjoy their life. Others are taken way too soon but have enjoyed and made the most of every moment.
What is one way you can improve the quality of your life today?
Can you think of examples where Quality trumps Quantity? I’d love you to join the conversation and leave your thoughts in the comments below.
In my next post in the A to Z Guide to Thriving, I’m discussing ‘R’ is for Resilience – Why you need it in the good times and bad. I do hope you will join me.
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27 Comments
I believe quality over quantity wins in most cases. One area I think quality is particular important is in the food that we eat. We’ve been making a conscious effort to buy more local, organically grown foods. This will be our second year with a CSA (community supported agriculture) share and we try to get to local farmer markets often. Weekends In Maine
Oh yes, quality food is so important for good health. The farmer markets and the CSA sound wonderful – fresh wholesome food. x
Quality definitely wins over quantity in fitness Sue. I’ve seen people spend hours on treadmill and other cardio equipment, More quality training would be keep the workout to a shorter time and add intensity such as hills, sprints and HIIT training.
Yep that is for sure Jennifer! Although I’m not a fan of hills 🙁
Thanks for another great post, Sue. And you’re so right. Often we push for quantity when quality would have far more value. I am currently waiting to receive my proof copy of my next book, and I really would have liked to increase the wordcount, but I realised in the process I would spoil the quality as we only know so much about Naomi, the theme of the book. Q is for Quiet!
This is so exciting for you Shirley!
We’re definitely in sync with today’s letter Sue and I like how you’ve applied it to so many areas of Midlife – friendships has been a big one for me – learning that it’s okay to have a few friends who are quality rather than a large group who don’t take the time to invest in connection.
Leanne | http://www.crestingthehill.com.au
Q for Quality not Quantity
The friendship point is important Leanne and I think also the blogging friendships need to be quality as well. I was in all these groups and making connections but not really connecting if you know what I mean. I’d rather stick to my BBB (best blogging buddy) you and a handful of other bloggers who I feel a connection with.
I agree with your points Sue, quality over quantity in most cases. I had to look twice as you and Leanne both had the same topic for Q today, and both handled it brilliantly 🙂
Yes it is a popular ‘Q’ topic, Deb and thanks for the compliment 🙂
Such wise words, my dear friend. Health, above all, is such a treasure! And friends from all parts of the world.
Thanks Leslie! And you are one of the friends from all parts of the world 🙂
Another great post Sue. Lately my quality of life has been downsizing, the Less is More concept and it’s wonderful 🙂
Hi Sam! The downsizing does take time to get used to, especially if we have many sentimental things – like I do. We are moving to an apartment so we need to declutter but I think I’m procrastinating about it!
Yes I have such a lot in storage, it’ll be nice one day opening it all up ? I loved decluttering though, it was exhilarating ?
Hi, Sue – I greatly appreciate your detailed examples of how quality trumps quantity in our lives. Although we would all agree with the general concept of ‘Quality over Quantity’, other things that we say and do often stand against this. For example, when I was a working mother I frequently heard others say how they had chosen to ‘spend more time’ with their children (as if ‘time spent’ trumped ‘quality time spent’). We also often go through life with the goals of ‘the one with the most …… (money, friends, possessions) wins.
Another very thought-provoking reminding us to reflect if our words still match our actions.
I know, Donna. These days I see Mothers who say they are spending time with their children but they are on their smartphones the whole time, texting other people. It is about spending the quality and being present with the children not just being physically there.
I wholeheartedly agree with you! We can’t always control quantity, but we can have Quality control. I recently spoke with a mom who was grieving that her son only had a couple of good friends. He is quiet and enjoys solitude. He’s well adjusted and is excelling in all areas of his life except for this perceived lack. He’s happy, but she can’t see why. Often we put our own notions of what someone needs on them. I’ve always said one good friend if twice is far better than 2 fair weather friends. Great post.
Facing Cancer with Grace
Sometimes we look for problems when they aren’t there and this mother is a perfect example of this. Her son is okay and yet she is worrying about him – wasted energy. Yes, we don’t need fair weather friends, just the stayers! Have a great week and thanks for stopping by xx
An interesting spin on quality. I was intrigued most about the concept the “quality of friendship” and one I quite like. I do believe that there are less folks in my life these days, but these are people I am in-sync with, who inspire me, who support me. It’s not about more.
They are the only friends we need in our life, Pat. Enjoy! xx
The older I get, the more I appreciate quality over quantity and I savor every moment of life!
Donna B McNicol, author & traveler
Romance & Mystery…writing my life
A-Z Flash Fiction Tales: http://dbmcnicol.blogspot.com
A-Z of Goldendoodles: http://ourprimeyears.blogspot.com
That is so true Donna. Thanks for visiting and have a great day!
I’m not sure what’s happening, Sue. I’ve been on your site multiple times today looking for your Q post and it was nowhere to be found – not under latest, not under A-Z challenge, not when I clicked on the image for the A-Z challenge. Yet I see that others have responded earlier today.
I want to pick up on your comment to Leanne about quality over quantity in blogging buddies. I wholeheartedly agree and am hugely appreciative of the core group of bloggers who are dedicated members of the Profound Journey tribe.
Thanks for the post.
Hmmm, I seem to be having problems with links Karen. I’ve been sick the last couple of days so that hasn’t helped. Here is the link if you are still keen.
I agree that quality is more important than quantity in all five areas you chose.
Another great post from an inspirational woman!
Oh thank you Trisha Faye! I’m not feeling well today so you have brightened my day with your comment. xx