In November 2018, I had the opportunity to attend Michelle Obama’s Becoming tour in Los Angeles. My cousin flew in from Kansas City, and we had an amazing girls’ night listening to Michelle Obama talk about her childhood, her time as First Lady of the United States, and her plans for the future.
After reading her memoir, I must say that I developed an even greater admiration and respect for her. It is surprising, enlightening, and inspiring. In a down-to-earth and real way, she shares parts of her life that any of us can relate to.
I started thinking that if Michelle Obama can go from the South Side of Chicago to being one of the most influential women in history, there’s a path for each of us.
These days we wake up to crazy headlines and are inundated with to-do’s and tasks. It is more important than ever that we focus on making our dreams our reality. Part of that process is realizing who you are becoming. Who are you willing to become in order to see your dreams come true?
When the conditions are perfect, we’ll do it. Oftentimes, waiting for everything to perfect (including ourselves) is what keeps us from showing up in the world. We want everything to be just right before we shine.
But is it perfection that the world needs from us? The very moment we decide to wait on perfection we rob the world of the gift we have to give.
Perfection is not real! It doesn’t draw people in, it’s not loyal or trustworthy, and it’s not authentic. It actually makes you appear less than what you really are.
The reality is that nothing will ever be perfect, no matter how hard you try. The beauty of it is that when we make mistakes we have the opportunity to show others how we get up. What we view as imperfections and disappointments can be the greatest source of inspiration for others.
Know that you are the only one that can do what you do. Part of becoming who you are is embracing every part of you. You’ve gone through what you have for a reason.
Every experience – good and bad – is a chapter in your story. In order to get to the place you want to be, don’t be afraid of the person looking back in the mirror.