In modern Western culture, we are so often told we are special. We are different from the others. We have extraordinary potential. We can do something truly great.
The intent is good, I think: Our parents, friends, teachers, etc., want us to feel like we are capable of the world. They want us to push past our insecurities and self-imposed limitations so we can shine as brightly as possible. They really love us and see something remarkable in us.
But in my experience, the belief that we are special usually causes more insecurity and shame than it does inspiration and empowerment. It creates an expectation to be great and do the impossible that we can never actually fulfill. It makes us feel like a disappointment to those who have deemed us special. Ultimately, it leaves us with a deep sense of failure, inadequacy, and hollowness for never living up to that label.
Here’s my truth: You are not special.
You are unique. You are beautiful. You are whole. Just like everyone else.
Put down any sense of needing to live up to something. Set yourself free from these impossible standards and expectations. Embrace the reality that you are just one flawed, limited human, humbly offering what you actually have to offer – nothing more, nothing less.
