“You are bonkers” is a phrase that I often hear. I smile as I write this as last night I delivered a talk to a local Women’s Group about my PCT hike. After the talk and grabbed a cuppa and a piece of cake a lady approached me and said “I just have to ask, how do you go to the toilet on a hike like that?”. I grinned and explained the leave-no-trace principle and how to use a trowel and portable bidet on the trail. “You are bonkers” she replied, shaking her head. Last week I blogged about it being ok to be different. This week I want to talk about embracing your quirkiness.
In a world that often glorifies perfection, it’s easy to forget the beauty found in imperfection. We’re bombarded with images of instagramable individuals, airbrushed to an unattainable standard. Yet, it’s crucial to recognize that our imperfections are not flaws to be hidden or corrected but rather the very essence of what makes us unique.
Consider a piece of pottery that is littered with cracks and chips. These imperfections are not seen as blemishes but rather as marks of character, telling a story of resilience and endurance. Similarly, our imperfections tell the story of our journey, shaping who we are and adding depth to our character. Imperfections are not always visual. Culture defines what is “normal”, but I ask you the question…. what is normal? As I grow older, I find myself cringing when I hear myself judging someone or criticising someone else’s way of doing things. Just because it is not how I would do it, does not mean that it is wrong.
When we embrace our imperfections, we embrace our humanity. We acknowledge that we are not meant to be perfect beings but rather flawed individuals striving for growth and self-discovery. It is through our imperfections that we connect with others on a deeper level, fostering empathy and understanding.
Our imperfections challenge us to step out of our comfort zones, confront our limitations, and strive for progress, not perfection. In doing so, we discover our strengths, cultivate resilience, and learn to appreciate the beauty found in our flaws. And we ALL have flaws.
Think of the most memorable individuals in history, artists, writers, and leaders, all celebrated for their unique quirks and imperfections. It is their authenticity and vulnerability that resonate with us, inspiring us to embrace our own imperfections and celebrate our individuality.
So, the next time you find yourself striving for perfection, remember that your imperfections are not something to be ashamed of but rather something to be celebrated. They are what make you unique, what set you apart from the crowd. Embrace them, cherish them, for they are the very essence of who you are.