Different/Interesting not "weird"

How often do you find yourself saying "that's weird", "he/she is weird" or "they are weird"? What does that really mean? Is it just weird because that's not what you would see as "normal"?

What's normal anyway? We all grew up with a certain idea of what makes something "normal", i.e. acceptable by society (the one we grew up in) according to how our parents, educators, media, and other people told us things should be.

There has been an evolution in consciousness, migration has promoted more awareness and knowledge of other cultures, personalities and more, people expressing in social media is opening up room for and inspiring others to feel more comfortable expressing who they truly are, media and communications are (slowly) starting to change the stereotypes.

We live in a very diverse world, rich in diversity of many kinds. It's about time we start opening our minds, embrace diverstity and let go of the stereotypes.

Here is an invitation to:

• Accept and embrace our personality and our own "quirks". Let more people see who we truly are and let go of the need to look/sound normal or adecuate because it helps us look more successful or professional.
• Become more aware of our thoughts. When we think that something/someone is acting/being "weird". Let's question ourselves: what does that really mean? Are they just behaving/being different to me? Are they doing something I would never do? What's my idea of "normal" or "weird"?
• Let's see things with a sense of curiosity, rather than judgement.
• Let's be more inclusive in our language and start calling it different or interesting.
• Let's be curious and explore diversity. Let's proactively find people who are different to us and get to know them, explore things and ideas from their perspective.

I am a neurodivergent, latinamerican, extroverted woman living in Australia. That "combo" and my vivacious personality might come accross as "weird" for some people. Growing up I felt "different" and I thought it was wrong to be/behave the way I do, because that wasn't how people "normally" behaved. With time, self awareness, learning and practice, I have accepted and embraced (most of) my "quirks" and I have proudly called myself a "weirdo" at times. I know call it uniqueness, individuality, spark, vivaciousness. I love my perks, they are what make me unique and that's the reason why certain people find my services appealing.

What makes you unique?

I'd love to hear in the comments ??????