Do you have a secret pastime or thing you enjoy that you keep hidden from public view because you think it’s weird, or embarrassing, a bit uncool, or doesn’t fit into the box of who you’re perceived to be?
I’m not talking life-changing admissions. Just guilty pleasures, that probably shouldn’t have the word guilty added to them at all!
Over the weekend, a friend told me she was making a fruit cake: glace cherries, mixed peel, sultanas, marzipan and thick royal icing. “Don’t tell anyone,” she laughed. “I think I’m the only person in the whole world who would willingly line up for old school wedding cake! It’s my guilty pleasure.”
She could be right – I don’t know anyone else who would willingly eat fruit cake!
Here’s the thing Abbie…. why don’t we own our quirks or openly admit the things we like because we fear people will judge us?
I’m going to admit that I love watching people on TV watch TV (hello Goggle Box my old friend!).
I’d love you to share your “guilty pleasure” with me – the things that you love despite not fitting the mould.
Maybe you couldn’t wait to hear the new Taylor Swift album, or have watched Home and Away almost every night for 30 years?
Maybe you don’t want to work ‘normal hours’ because you like taking an afternoon nap, or always buy the more expensive thing.
Perhaps you love sports and poetry, actually know how to use Excel, love pineapple on pizza, will never get rid of your high waisted skinny jeans, or prefer a cappuccino over a flat white….
Let’s own our quirks, be open about the things we like, and stop apologising for being attached to things that go against trends.
Most of all, let’s ditch the need to get permission from others to do or embrace the things that bring us joy.
You’re awesome!
Bel
Every Sunday afternoon, Bel sends the Ignite community a personal note of encouragement – reflection, inspiration, stories, and sharing. It’s our way of helping you prepare for the week ahead. Add your details here to receive Here’s The Thing in your inbox.