Flaws are often viewed as mistakes to be erased. However, if we look at a flaw as a unique quality versus an imperfection to be judged, we may begin to see the beauty in it. I’m reminded of this lesson each day when I look at artwork on my wall, strategically placed near the entry of my home. The piece of art has four simple words ‘Make it your life’.
I purchased this artwork during an extended semester leave in 2015. I had driven 2,125 miles by myself from Minnesota to California (my longest road trip alone) to work on my scholarship away from everyday distractions. One day, during a writing break, I ventured out to shop. As I walked through a store, not looking for anything in particular, a message caught my attention. When I originally saw the piece of art, it was flawless, the words “Make it your life” were written in beautiful script. I enjoyed the positive message and felt like I was on a similar quest to “Make it your life”. I wasn’t quite sure where I would hang it, so I left without purchasing. A few days later when I returned to the store, I saw a similar piece, but this one was drastically discounted because the glass was placed backward in the frame. This time, the message spoke more powerfully to me. I immediately purchased it. This flawed artwork is one I treasure. What others may see as a flaw, I saw a unique, beautiful, and inspiring message. I fell in love with the beauty in the flaw!
It’s precisely because of the flaw that an observer will take a pause; the message of the words “Make it your life” take on a much deeper meaning. This flaw reminds me there are unique paths to make a life, and many of these paths are riddled with flaws. Most importantly, because of the flaw in that artwork, I am learning to appreciate – and love – my own flaws.
We all have flaws that make us unique. If we take a sincere pause to look at them, we might see just how beautiful they are. What was once an object to discount can become priceless because it’s not like anything else. It is flawed. I am not like anyone else. I am flawed. You are not like anyone else. You are flawed.
Our lives are filled with flaws that come together to create a unique masterpiece of art. Find the beauty in the flaw.
KerryOn Questions
- What flaws you can reframe to find the beauty?
- How have your flaws created a unique masterpiece of art?
- What are some unique ways you can “Make it your life"?
The Kerry behind KerryOn
My name is Kerry K. Fierke, Ed.D. (pron. Fear-Key) I have a unique combination of skills and experience – decades of fast-paced corporate experience in Fortune 100 companies and large health care organizations, combined with the academic rigor of a highly ranked research university. My focus is supporting others to create their own path to leadership development, lifelong learning, and a unique leadership legacy. Take a moment to focus on leadership, then KerryOn!
To see all KerryOn's and other leadership stuff, visit www.kerrykfierke.com.
Appreciate the word play...my brain filled in "Beauty in the Raw". Much more interesting to find beauty in the flaw. Agreed that flaw = unique and precious!