Sometimes, we pick up on things without needing to think about it. It could be a shift in someone’s tone or words that doesn’t match their energy. It’s instinct. We just know something’s off. But what if we could take it a step further? What if we didn’t just notice by chance, but purposely tune in? It’s like external mindfulness. It’s paying attention with intention.

Most folks hear “mindfulness” and think about turning inward, slowing down, taking deep breaths, being still—and these are all important. But there’s another side to it, one that looks outward. It’s stepping outside of your own mind and truly observing the people around you, the energy, the unspoken needs in a room or community. Before you can boost anyone, you need to be aware enough to see them, hear them, and understand what they’re facing. That kind of intentional observation fuels strategic and purpose-driven action.

No one ever succeeds alone. We rise through support and build impact together. It all begins by choosing to see, and care, on purpose. Listen to this:

Paying attention with intention fuels connection, growth, and bold moves. When you intentionally tune in to the people around you, whether it’s one-on-one or on a societal scale, your impact becomes more intentional and your actions become more meaningful. That’s how you create ripple effects. That’s how you create legacies.

For this Kwanza Jones Chronicles, I’ve put together some highlights that may provide a little bit of insight into what you can achieve when you tune in and work with others. Let’s get boosted.

• A few weeks ago, my Teamily got their hands dirty—in the best way. We volunteered with TreePeople and cared for 77 trees in one afternoon. That included building berms, removing invasive vegetation, and providing each tree with water. This wasn’t just about the trees. It was about tuning in to what our environment needed and taking action. It was a reminder that paying attention isn’t enough. Real change comes from acting on what you observe. It’s about creating something greater, for the collective, and for the future we’re all building.

• Awareness is powerful, but connection is what turns it into momentum. If you want to grow, lead, or leave something lasting behind, you’ve got to build bridges. I talked about this during my keynote address to the sixth cohort of last year’s Council of Urban Professionals (CUP) LA Fellows Program. It’s a program that accelerates the careers of diverse professionals by building their human and social capital while increasing their social contributions. Being able to address such an outstanding group gave me a boost and I’m excited to see what comes next for them.

• My Teamily put together an article based on the keynote I gave at the CUP LA Fellows Graduation, featuring key takeaways on how to help your community and foster real growth. When you pay attention to the people you connect with, you begin to notice what others might miss; who needs support, what gaps need closing, and how you can show up to make a difference. That’s how you strengthen a community. Check out the article here.

• Sometimes, showing up for others takes effort, especially when you feel like you’re carrying your own weight alone. But here’s the thing: no one succeeds alone… sometimes you need a boost. You need others, just as they need you. When you lift someone else, you rise in the process. That’s how we grow. That’s how we lead. That’s how we build together. Here’s a music boost to remind you that a better you, and a better me, is how we get to a “Better We”.

Listen to “Better We”

Awareness is just the beginning. Take what you feel and what you see. Turn it into action. Keep showing up and keep boosting lives. That’s how legacies are built.

If you’re a member of the Kwanza Jones Boost Friends™ Community, sign in here and connect with boost friends who will support you, keep you accountable, and help stay SUPERCHARGED®.

Who loves you? I do!

Bye for now,

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Upcoming: Awareness opens the door. But it’s the people who walk with us—who support, guide, and uplift us—that make the journey meaningful. In the next edition of the Kwanza Jones Chronicles, we’ll reflect on the people who’ve poured into us, and explore how we can become that boost for someone else. Stay tuned.