I'm utilizing another UBC prompt today from a few days ago, share a favorite quote.
The below is a quote I came across a few years ago and have held it close to me ever since. After so many years of being small, of not expressing myself in ways I felt were meaningful, after doubting myself at every turn, this quote gave me a different perspective.
“To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment.”
- Ralph Waldo Emerson
This quote moved me to really push myself at Toastmasters, to take on more roles and give more speeches. To show up as me, the person who so passionately has a story to share, a message to convey. This quote reminded me that I don't need to make myself fit, I fit right where I belong.
I have always loved reading inspiring words of others, I used to write them all in a little notebook so I always had a place to turn to for words of comfort, inspiration, or community.
Looking for some more quotes? Check out this blog from October with some more quotes.
What does the above quote stir in you? Tell me in the comments below and/or share one of your favorites!
That quote has served you well Kimberly. Keep shining!
I struggled as a kid and young adult to fit in. Now I don’t care as much what people think. I like my authentic self! - Elisa
Being me is the only me that I can be. But I have been told for so long that I am defective and that I am less than that I sometimes struggle to accept being me. So it is amazing anti-status quo and empower to be the me that I am meant to be.
Is it really "the world" or "society" that expects us to be different? Or is it us, trying to fulfil what we *think* are outside expectations?