I thought I had written my last newsletter for the year. But today, I woke up inspired to share one more thought and end 2024 on a positive note.
This year alone, I’ve written over 50 newsletter editions. Through this process, I’ve come to realize something important: writing—and sharing that writing publicly—is a way of staying in sync with the world and helping the world stay in sync with us.
Why is this so?
Writing does to the mind what tuning does to a musical instrument, like a guitar. A guitarist aligns the strings to create harmony, sometimes leaving slight imperfections to add color and nuance. Too much dissonance, and the sound becomes jarring. Too much precision, and it may lose its personality.
Similarly, a writer aligns their thoughts with the narratives, trends, and ideas that resonate with both themselves and their readers. Effective writing strikes a balance: it makes sense (it’s “in tune”) while offering something fresh—a perspective that avoids the obvious or the predictable. Otherwise, it risks becoming just another brushstroke on the canvas of today’s conversations.
Writing truthfully is a deeply creative process, not just because it produces and creates a tangible outcome—a text, an article, a novel, or a poem—but because it becomes part of what truly shapes and ‘creates’ the world around us. Every authentic piece of writing adds to the dialogue and has the power to influence, inspire, and connect.
The world thrives on a dance between creative dissonance, which disrupts, and predictable harmony, which reassures.
Creative dissonance pulls us out of our comfort zones, demanding our attention. Predictable harmony provides warmth and reassurance. It’s this interplay that generates meaningful and sustainable change.
In this sense, writing isn’t so different from thinking and speaking truthfully. Both require courage, clarity, and care.
As I reflect on this year’s journey of more than 50 newsletters, I feel grateful for the opportunity to share, connect, and contribute to this shared conversation. Let me wish you and your loved ones a 2025 filled with harmony, authenticity, and inspiration.
Philippos