I had an epiphany last night: I’m more comfortable with myself because I’ve acknowledged the value in my story.
We all have a story. Some are colourful, others are epic sagas. Some prefer to use only words while others need picture-book format. Some stories are lived with the fantasy of being played out on the big screen, complete with which actor would best portray you. Others try to bury their stories so deep that no one would find it. Some stories have been grossly exaggerated, while others prefer to skim the surface.
Regardless of your personal opinion about your story, it is valuable. It’s the one thing that you have that is matchless. Yes, there are bits and pieces that are similar to another. Maybe there’s some generational guck or blessings that have been passed down through familial lines. Perhaps this detail or that moment is shared with someone else. All that aside, there’s one thing your story has that theirs doesn’t:
You.
We are living our story. No one can retell it as accurately as we can. No one else could live our lives the same way we do. It’s not about comparing or measuring up to someone else’s story. Chances are high that they’re looking to us with envy, wishing they could swap lives.
Do you appreciate your story? Do you see value in your story? More importantly—how do you plan to share your story?
I used to think my story didn’t matter. And because my story didn’t matter, I didn’t matter. Simple math, right? This is what made me question blogging in the first place. Do I have anything to put out there that’s even worth sharing? Why would anyone want to read my page? These questions kept me ‘hiding’ my blog for a long time. Not only did I keep my blog a secret, but I also downplayed my writing ability. I didn’t see the point in even getting my own web space— I don’t have cash to *waste*.
However, I was pleasantly surprised to discover that when I shared some of the riskier, edgier, more challenging parts of my story aloud, there was feedback. Lots of feedback. And it was positive. AND they wanted to hear more. (I don’t blog for feedback, but it sure does wonders to a bloggers soul to get some—thank you!!) My readers saw that I offered a unique perspective and insight into a life they were honestly and earnestly curious about, but no one else had offered to share.
Now equipped with my own web space, I’m actively making plans to share more about my story. I’m putting it out there because that’s part of who I am. I’m choosing to share because someone else has similar bits and pieces. They need encouragement to keep going… or encouragement to stop doing something harmful.
My story is valuable because I am valuable.
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Tell me about your story. Can you see how you & your story makes a difference? You can join the five-minute Friday community here.