Every day we listen to this: take that pill, use this supplement. Do this routine. Be happy. Speak up. Be a better listener. Use these injections. Visit our clinic. You cannot live your best life without this product. This class. This face cream. You’ll be happier. You’ll become a new you. New personality, new body, new face, for a low low price. It’s never-ending. Have you ever noticed how much time we spend trying to be perfect? We chase this impossible ideal, thinking we need to fit into a certain mold, all while overlooking the very things that make us unique.
But what if I told you that these very things—the ones you sometimes wish you could hide—are actually your superpowers?
There’s nothing wrong with you. You are who you are. Cherish it. Embrace it. Be comfortable in your own skin. It’s time to stand up and shine.
Think about something you’ve always been insecure about. For me, it’s always been that I think that I talk too much. Some people might be annoyed by that, like my sister, but let me tell you a story. When I was in university, I ended up being the only person elected to be Valedictorian. I gave a speech at my graduation for hundreds of people at the ceremony.
And what about having a terrible sense of direction? While others confidently navigate with a visual memory, some people get lost just going around the block, even with GPS. Some people may dismiss it as a flaw. But here’s the thing: those people always end up taking the scenic route, stumbling upon hidden gems they were never meant to find. And Every journey becomes an unexpected adventure, transforming even the simplest errand into an epic tale of detours and discoveries.
So, how many of you have ever felt embarrassed about something you do? Maybe you get lost in your thoughts and never remember people’s names, maybe you laugh a little too loudly at your own jokes or maybe you miss the punchline entirely.
What if, instead of feeling self-conscious, you celebrated those imperfections as your superpower? Imagine how that simple shift in your perspective could change everything.
Today, we’re going to dive into how we can embrace our imperfections—especially with a sense of humor—by being happy with who we are. This can lead to greater self-acceptance and joy. Instead of viewing our quirks as flaws or seeking perfection, let's explore how they can actually be our greatest strengths.
We all present ourselves differently depending on where we are or who we’re with—we wear multiple masks throughout our lives. Professional in the office, laidback at home, a daydreamer in social settings. But no matter how much we try to mask or even change our true selves, your real self deserves time to shine.
Pop culture is full of examples where imperfections are embraced. Erin Brockovich, who was portrayed as loud and hotheaded, is one of the most prominent consumer advocates we have today. Take Forrest Gump, who was constantly belittled and underestimated. His sincerity and courage led him to accomplish incredible things. Even X-Men - they are mutants but become superheroes that save our planet.
These stories remind us that what others initially perceive as weaknesses or imperfections can often become our greatest assets. It’s all about embracing who we are and finding strength in our uniqueness.
This is the inspiration behind my upcoming book entitled Homegrown Superheroes. It’s a fun story about characters putting their differences aside coming together to put on the show of a lifetime. Each character has unique traits that might seem odd to others, but those traits ultimately become their superpower. It’s a reminder that we all do things differently, but that is what we should embrace.
In the book, we meet many characters from the fictional town of Peaceful Valley. These characters are all comically imperfect, whether it’s terrible time management, or the inability to listen. This always caused a lot of disagreements, but due to an economic crisis, the citizens team up to save the town. I’m not going to give any spoilers, but they learn to celebrate themselves the way they are.
In fact, this also has psychological benefits. Self-acceptance reduces stress. When we’re comfortable in our own skin, we strip away the power of negativity, which lowers stress and anxiety. When we accept our quirks as part of our DNA, we begin to appreciate them as integral parts of who we are. This shift leads to more fulfilling lives and a life worth living. All of us have a finite amount of time here on this earth. And the relationship you have with yourself is the longest. Be kind to yourself. Be good to you . Plus, sharing ourselves honestly can strengthen relationships and deepen connections with others.
So, let’s celebrate what makes us different. Let’s turn our imperfections into superpowers and find the joy that comes with being our authentic selves. Let’s start embracing what makes you you.
(talk given by Lucia at the BookFest Fall 2024).
More info about Lucia at https://www.luciamatuonto.com/ and https://www.relatable-media.com/.
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