In this crazy world where photo filters and phony reality are becoming more the norm than ever before, it’s all the more important to embrace your uniqueness and that of others. If all flowers only came in red, gardens would be boring. If soups only came in one flavor – tomato, we’d eat far less soup. If you look and act just like everyone else, you’re removing your color from the world.
The world needs crazy unique people to bring out the flavor and zest of life. We need artists and accountants, surgeons and social workers, musicians, and massage therapists. We need you to be you more than ever.
Try This:
Next time you are in a group of people, ask them each to describe themselves in three words. I guarantee you no one will have the same three. Take time to think of three words that capture your unique passions and strengths. When you are feeling less than great, or when you need encouragement, repeat those words to yourself and remind yourself that no matter what happens, no one can take them away from you.
Storytime:
For the first thirty years of my life, I was convinced that there was a certain way that I was supposed to live my life and I just couldn’t do it. I couldn’t keep a perfect house. I didn’t bake cookies nearly often enough. My kids refused to wear matching pajamas. I’d forget to water my poor garden every July. Every day I thought I was failing at being a person because I couldn’t live up to what I believed was expected of a fully functional adult woman. I didn’t find happiness until I gave up other people’s expectations and created my own.
By the way, there is no right way to be a fully functional adult. As long as you can hold up your head high at the end of the day, you’re good.
