Embracing Uniqueness: A Journey of Self-Expression
- Deborah Ann Minke
- Feb 10
- 3 min read
Updated: Mar 3
Last night, my friend and I attended a painting class. As we entered, each spot at the table had a canvas, paintbrushes, and paint waiting for us. The instructor had a sample canvas displayed at the front, showcasing a beautiful sunrise. I love painting landscapes, but I felt a twinge of uncertainty. Were we expected to replicate her sunrise? It seemed so. As the instructor began her lesson, it became clear that we were encouraged to follow her lead.
Do We Need Permission to Be Unique?
The instructor was fantastic, but I found myself questioning: What if I wanted to paint wiggly lines instead of straight rays? What if I preferred circles? Did I really need permission to create my own version of the sunrise? I hesitated, hand raised, but then I thought, "Wait! This is my painting!" Quietly, I decided to embrace my creativity. I began painting swirls instead of rays.
We were instructed to paint in steps, but I didn’t want to follow the crowd. I wanted to express myself freely. My friend, who typically follows the rules, shot me a puzzled look. Swirls instead of straight lines? Not following the steps? No, no, and no!
Suppressing Our Joy to Fit In
I’m not usually a rebel. Yet, throughout my life, I’ve often painted rays, conforming to what others expected. I’ve stifled my true self, suppressing my joy just to fit in. But that night, I let my creativity flow. I used my own colors and became lost in the joy of painting. It was my creation, and I didn’t need anyone’s approval. To my surprise, the instructor appreciated both my originality and my painting.
Rules and Instructions: A Balancing Act
Don’t get me wrong; there’s nothing wrong with following instructions, especially when learning something new. I usually do. We shouldn’t disrupt a class just to be original. Respect for others is essential. However, we must not let conformity stifle our joy. That night, I stepped out of my self-imposed box of rules. It had been one of those days.
Be Original and Respectful
Do we always have to follow rules? Are we going to conform or pursue our joy? Conformity has its place. Imagine the chaos if we didn’t follow road signs or stood in line. There’s a purpose to lining up: it prevents stampedes and injuries. Those who cut in line aren’t exemplifying originality. Don’t be that person! Disregarding others is not a way to express yourself. Be considerate, but also embrace who you truly are.
Find Your Joy and Let It Flow
Let your joy flow! We often underestimate the power of art and creativity to uplift us and enhance our mental and emotional well-being. Be creative! Don’t worry about what others think. In fact, they might admire your courage. When I decided to add rose-gold highlights to my hair a couple of years ago, I was amazed by the compliments I received. Even strangers stopped me in the grocery store to say how much they loved the color! One lady even said, "I wish I was brave enough to do that!" I was more surprised than anyone else. It had been a transformative year.
Celebrate Who You Are
You are special and unique. Celebrate that! The next time you’re asked to paint rays in the same color and style, stand tall and say:
“No, thank you. I truly love myself, swirls and all.”
Questions for Reflection
What are some ways you have conformed to fit in with others?
How did it feel to follow the crowd?
Following rules is sometimes necessary. How can you express yourself in healthy and constructive ways without hurting others?
How does it feel to be yourself and express your true self?
In the coming week, think of ways to express and celebrate yourself that nourish your soul and bring you joy. Follow your joy, and remember to be YOU!
Deborah Ann Minke, M.A., B.Ed., OCT, CH-C
Energize and Rise LLC
(I like to write my own blogs :)
Comments