Sunday, May 3, 2015

The Adventure of Taking off the Armor and the Girl in the Red Bug

Several weeks ago, I was watching the only news program I watch, Morning Joe on MSNBC. They were discussing Hilary Clinton preparing to make her official announcement as a presidential candidate for the 2016 presidential run. They were discussing the challenges that Hilary Clinton will face as she begins her presidential bid. One of the commentators was discussing her "prickliness" for lack of a better term. Joe Scarborough, the host of the show and a former Republican Congressman, who knows Hilary Clinton personally, said that he has shared with people that really Hilary Clinton is just a mid-West gal, that she is very nice and genuine. But, when she puts on that "armor" people don't get to see the "real her." 

This segment got me thinking, how many of us put on our "armor" and don't allow others to see the the "real us?" I know there are many instances that I  am apprehensive, or even, dare I say, unwilling, to let others see "the real me," the authentic, quirky, crazy me.Why is this? Why don't we feel comfortable with sharing our individuality and uniqueness with others? Why don't I feel comfortable sharing my individuality and uniqueness with others?

So often, what hinders me in sharing my  "real self," is judgement from others; not fitting in, past hurts - really it can simply be defined as overall fear of rejection. Still at this age, fear of rejection plagues me. I wish I was confident enough to say it doesn't, but it does! That negative self talk still exists.

This simple news segment made me realize, as with Hilary Clinton, I am potentially missing out on amazing life opportunities. Although, I am making a conscious effort to guard myself, or reduce the potential of rejection or hurt, when I put on that "armor," in that same instance I am limiting the positive moments, the opportunities of meeting new people and experiencing new adventures. Fear of being our authentic selves limits us. It limits us to the lives we should be living.

I would encourage all of us, to remove our armor - one piece at a time - and  let others see the fabulousness of our uniqueness. I would love to hear how you are removing your armor. 

                                                         Until the next time,
                                                          The Girl in the Red Bug