We see our physical imperfections every time we look at ourselves in a mirror. We sometimes reflect on our shortcomings or imperfections of character after we fail to respond to a situation in an emotionally-balanced way; When we realize we were untruthful to ourselves and to others, or when we harshly criticize ourselves for not having achieved something that is defined as successful or good by social convention.
All of this we come to see as our own imperfections. We see it as imperfect because it falls short of what we think, believe or expect to be perfect, a construct or idea we have in our head that we have built ourselves or that was handed down to us by society.
Better to do something imperfectly than to do nothing flawlessly.
Robert H. Schuller
Sometimes we make the mistake of assuming that we need to be perfect to be lovable, which sets us up for disaster. No one is perfect, and anyway, our imperfections are what make us unique. Here’s why owning your flaws makes you a lot more lovable than pretending to be perfect does:
1. IT MAKES OTHER PEOPLE MORE COMFORTABLE.
It’s not your job to make sure that other people aren’t intimidated by you, but when you pretend to be perfect, it can put up a wall and make you seem unapproachable and unrelatable.
2. PEOPLE CAN GET TO KNOW THE REAL YOU.
We want people to like us for who we really are, but for that to happen, we have to learn how to let people get to know who we really are. You can’t be guarded and known deeply at the same time.
3. PEOPLE AREN’T LOOKING FOR PERFECT.
We might want someone that is perfect for us, but that’s very different from wanting a perfect person. Imagine how hard it would be to really date a flawless person. S/He would probably be a total nightmare.
4. YOU COME OFF AS AUTHENTIC.
Nothing is more appealing than people who are totally authentic. That’s exactly why you might love certain people who you consider “weird” or “crazy,” because they’re comfortable with it and because of that, so are you.
5. YOU’VE ACCEPTED YOURSELF.
When you accept yourself for who you are, then other people can, as well. Knowing you’re flawed and moving forward shows people that you don’t need saving, because you’re doing it yourself.
So how do you start owning your flaws??? Here are ten tips for embracing your flaws and accepting yourself completely.
1 Acknowledge what’s bothering you
Without understanding the root of your concerns, it’s hard to come to terms with your flaws. Dig deep and see if there are issues beneath the flaws that you need to address.
2 Use your flaws to guide self-improvement
Embracing your flaws doesn’t mean you can’t improve yourself. In some cases, recognizing certain flaws gives you the opportunity to work on those imperfections. If your flaw is something you want to change, go for it!
3 Appreciate your individuality
Your flaws may make you different from everybody else, but that’s a good thing! Don’t make the mistake of trying to fit the mold.
4 Put things in perspective
Instead of focusing on everything that’s bothering you, grab a notepad and jot down three things you are grateful for. Wouldn’t you rather have your health and your beautiful family than be a stunning beauty without those precious gifts?
5 Flip your flaw
If you can find the strength in your flaw, you’re a lot more likely to own it. For example, if you’ve always considered yourself quiet and shy, that probably means you’re an amazing listener and observer.
6 Don’t compare yourself
Stop comparing yourself to others and love yourself for who you are — the good, the bad and the ugly. Everyone has their own idiosyncrasies. That’s what makes life interesting!
7 Be flawsome
Yes, flawsome is an actual term. I had shared a post Be Flawsome last June. This term was coined to describe brands that show humanity by being open about their flaws. In their words, “Human nature dictates that people have a hard time genuinely connecting with, being close to, or really trusting other humans who (pretend to) have no weaknesses, flaws, or mistakes.” Who wants that? Embrace your flaws — and be flawsome!
Kenrick Vaz 