I saw a post on social media recently that made me want to make a life change. This happens a lot. I see something that looks amazing, and I think, “I need to be that.” Sometimes I even try. But usually, I just end up feeling inadequate and perhaps a little ridiculous. (ie. homemade-boho-jewellery-hairbow-maker)
I’ve written before about knowing who you are. And I think that is really important.
I’m all about walking in identity, gifts and calling.
I’m passionate about dreaming and taking chances and trying new things.
But also.
I’m learning that it’s ok to know what I’m not.
That’s right.
Finally, after all these years I can finally admit that I don’t have to be great at everything.
I’m terrible with numbers, excel spreadsheets and most admin-related tasks. Last week I had to cover reception at work and every time the phone rang I broke out into a cold sweat. Also, never ask me to add on the spot. We’ll both be embarrassed.
I want to be vegan and super-healthy and eat all the granolas. But I love cheese and my lattes with milk. So what’s a girl gonna do? This girl will choose cheese. Every time.
I’d love to pull off some of my pinned Pinterest outfits but it’s hard to wear heels to work and I need to be comfy. Most days, I’m gonna slap on my jeans with stretch and my torn boots and sneak in some socially-appropriate leggings when I can. (And I’m sorry Pinterest, you can’t wear a shawl 20 ways.)
I dream of renovating homes and covering them with shiplap and subway tiles and all the pretty things and selling them at a ridiculous profit. But I can’t measure (see point #1) and I’m not very patient with detail work. So, there goes that.
I see authors with all the hustle, and I NEED TO HUSTLE TOO. I try to create super-amazing instagram stories with age-defying filters and frantically declare that I need emergency plastic surgery and hair extensions. Is there no good lighting anywhere around me????
These are just a few things that I am not.
I am not an administrative, stylish, wrinkle-free vegan with perfect hair extensions who installs shiplap on old houses and has all her Instagram stories sponsored as she opens her samples from fabulous make-up companies.
Definitely not me.
And it’s ok.
I’m not discouraged, let down, inadequate or left feeling defeated anymore.
In fact, I feel the opposite.
Confidence comes from knowing who you are, but freedom comes from knowing what you’re not.
I don’t focus on what I’m not, I walk in the truth of who I am.
We all have that truth. You don’t have to be like everyone else. You don’t have to do what everyone else is doing. That truth can set you free.
You are you.
Made for the things that only YOU can bring. That’s pretty amazing. So take the pressure off and live the life that has been set before you. The days that have been written and ordained for your life. Don’t get focussed on being anything other than who you have been created to be.
He tells you who you are.
He says you are enough.
Leave the other distractions and voices that don’t fit behind you. Let your decisions be guided by your strengths. Pursue what matters to you and what makes you feel inspired – and do those things.
Knock them out of the park.
Keep dreaming and trying.
That’s always important.
But if something doesn’t fit,
You’re free to move on.
It’s ok to know what you’re not,
while walking in the truth of who you’re meant to be.
Loved this Shelly!
Were you writing this one just for me?
p.s. I love watching you rock those filters in your Instagram story— I’m cheering for you and your bravery every time you do one!
Thank you Judith! I’m glad I’m not the only one who needed this reminder!
Thankfully as we age the truth of who we are becomes crystal clear and the stress of conforming and trying too hard to be what we’re not becomes less!
Yes! Thanks Peggy!
Love it, never really thought about it in that way but i love confidence comes from who you are, but freedom comes from knowing what you’re not quote ! Feeling good about who u really are how your created as an individual and owning it I guess? thanks for sharing
Thanks Vicki! xo
Shelly, Best Blog yet. If there is a truth we are trying to teach at home this. is. it.
Keep Going!! Jesus is using your writing to Breakdown The Lies we tell ourselves!!!!
Love to You❤
Thank you friend!!! xoxo Keep up your awesome parenting!
Very good blog Shelly. I loved it…
Thank you! xo