"Why to fit in if you were born to stand out" Dr Seuss

Welcome to 'My Human Stories,' where I share personal tales from my journey through leadership, learning, motherhood, and health. Each story is a piece of my life, aimed to inspire, amuse, and impart wisdom.

"Why are you wearing black today? Did something happen?" This question might seem mundane, but it opens a colorful chapter from my life story, illustrating the joy and challenges of standing out.

My love for vibrant, unconventional fashion started early. Picture a five-year-old in communist Czechoslovakia in a heat of summer, defiantly donning a white turtleneck, white tights, and a pink negligee, topped with wellington boots, fake pearls, and a barrette. This wasn't just a fashion statement; it was a declaration of independence, one that led to a rather stern call from my kindergarten to my mother, who had to come on her moped to pick me up as the kindergarten proclaim they cannot go for a walk with a child dressed like this. So while my mother picked me up all the other kids were waiting patiently so that they can go for a walk after this rebel of a child left.

And who could forget the peak of my teenage rebellion? Inspired by Sinead O'Connor, I sported a bold haircut, paired with a denim jacket, studded accessories, and a leopard skirt, all while sipping coffee as an onlooker accidentally lit the wrong end of his cigarette, baffled by my appearance.

In the professional world, I encountered fellow mavericks like CHIPILIRO KATUNDU , who dazzled the corporate world with his spectrum of suits in pink, red, yellow, grey, and green. When Chipi entered the room you knew he was there, not only his fashion but the entire positive energy which came with it. He dressed differently, he thought differently, it was like an electricity which brought many things back to life. But when Chipi's wardrobe shifted to somber black and blue, it was a red flag that the vibrant spirit within was dimming, crushed by the weight of conformity. Chipi was my Head of Retail and SME for Mozambique and when I saw him switching to conformity I told him as a friend he should consider to leave. Chipi is a dear friend and celebrated leader who serves today as Chief Product Officers of the Letshego .

What I Learned: Embracing our uniqueness is not merely an act of personal expression; it's a bold statement of our existence, a declaration that we are here and we are different. Each outfit, each unconventional choice, is a chapter of my story, teaching me that authenticity is the most genuine form of rebellion against the monotony of conformity.

The journey of standing out has taught me the invaluable lesson of resilience. Facing sideways glances and outright disapproval has honed a sense of self that is unshakeable, rooted in the deep understanding that our differences are not just to be tolerated but celebrated. It's a lesson in courage, showing up as ourselves in a world that often favors uniformity.

Moreover, these experiences have illuminated the importance of fostering environments—be it at home, school, or the workplace—that not only accept but cherish individuality. Just as I learned to embrace my own quirks and colors, I've seen the transformative impact of encouraging others to do the same, like my encouragement to Chipi to reclaim his colorful essence.

In essence, standing out has taught me that our unique signatures, which don't need to be only fashion related, are not just personal trademarks but vital components of our collective human tapestry. They are what make us memorable, what make us resonate, and ultimately, what make us truly alive.

Book Recommendations: Dive into "Originals: How Non-Conformists Move the World" by Adam Grant, an inspiring read that celebrates the power of embracing one's uniqueness and of course “Untamed” by Glennon Doyle

Podcast Recommendation: "WeCanDoHardThings" offers insightful conversations with individuals who are not afraid to be themselves, echoing the spirit of authenticity and originality delivered by incredible hosts Glennon Doyle and Abby Ambach

Let's wear our uniqueness with pride, whether it's through our wardrobe, our ideas, or our actions. Share your own stories of standing out in the comments below.

PS: And yes I wore a red wedding dress and Chipi rocked up to my wedding in a red suite, absolutely perfect.

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