Accepting Our Imperfect
Taking a Break and Embracing the Imperfect
For the first time since launching Be Data Lit in February, I took a real break. I disconnected from social media, spent time with friends, cuddled with my cats, read books, and even hosted a party with my husband.
Social media and movies often suggest that after a break, we should emerge with everything figured out, that some profound revelation will strike us, bringing peace and clarity. But the older I get, the more I realize that nobody has it all figured out, and those who claim they do are not being entirely honest.
We’re all just doing the best we can with what we have, in the time we’ve been given. It reminds me of a quote from Gandalf in The Lord of the Rings:
"All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us."
He’s absolutely right. There’s no divine revelation or voice from above telling us what to do. Many of us are raised on stories of rescuers—prince charmings or wise wizards coming to save the day. But in reality, no one is coming to our rescue except ourselves.
You are your own rescuer. This realization might seem sad at first, but I find it empowering. I am in charge of this one life I have, so why should I burden myself with others’ judgments?
Why should you?
We often hold back our words for fear of others’ reactions. We delay actions because we’re afraid of the response. We postpone decisions because the stars haven’t aligned just right. But if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that no matter how well you’re doing, there will always be someone who thinks you’re not—sometimes, even yourself. And there will never be a perfect moment when everything aligns.
It’s not like The Dark Crystal with a Great Conjunction, where our shadow and light selves merge perfectly. It’s time to let that go. It’s time to accept that you drive your own actions, and you have the choice to move forward or not.
So, what does all this mean? I want to live in a world that prizes vulnerability over victories, where we showcase failure and its lessons over individual successes. A world where we can embrace imperfection and admit when we’re wrong. We reward people for taking chances rather than saying, “I told you so.”
A world where we let go of things that no longer serve us. A world where kindness triumphs over cruelty. A world where education is accessible to all, not a privilege for the chosen few, or a path to crippling debt.
A world where basic needs like jobs and healthcare aren’t battles to be fought.
It might sound like a pipe dream, but I believe in it nonetheless.
Taking this break taught me to appreciate the imperfect moments and to focus on the journey instead of an unattainable ideal. It's okay not to have everything figured out. Embrace the uncertainties, make the best choices you can with the time you have, and remember that this is your life to shape.
So, let’s let go of what’s holding us back and move forward with courage and honesty. Imagine a world where we celebrate our authentic selves, cherish imperfections, and lift each other up.
What steps will you take today to live more authentically? Share your thoughts in the comments—I’d love to hear from you.
