Tuesday, September 7, 2010

What's your thing?

So, I'm not sure why I'm so down about this lately, but I really want to have a "thing." Everybody has a thing. Some people are runners, some people are readers. Some are singers, bakers, or fashionistas, or Thespians, or entrepreneurs. Some are handy-man's (Dustin), or car mechanics. Some people are amazing photographers. I'm feeling like I'm not great at anything. I think I'm good at some things, though. I enjoy sewing, cooking, baking, singing, playing the piano, and running. However, there's already a friend or family member that would be considered the best for that particular talent. For example, I love, love, love to play the piano. I also love to sing. But I can think of like, 11 people on the top of my head that are family members or close friends that can do both of those considerably better than I. So... what is my thing? I'm feeling a little mediocre. I know it's just because I'm being dumb and am comparing myself to others, but even knowing that, I'm still bummed about it. And I know everyone will comment saying, "There's always going to be somebody better, so get over it." (or maybe that's what I would post) but it doesn't change the way I feel.

8 comments:

Kandis said...

Erika, I feel like I can relate.
I'll tell you this, there was so many things I wanted to do...one being photography and I was so afraid to do any of them because I was afraid I wouldn't be "the best". I told my therapist "Im just surviving". I felt like I wasn't living because I wasn't doing what made me feel good, what I really wanted to do. I just had to learn to say "it doesn't matter if I'm not the best, I love it." So I started to focus on photography, and I'm growing! Not just in my photography but in so many ways. I'm now living! Start doing what you love, and cultivate it. You'll grow and your talent will grow. I have to keep in mind that the potential is limitless, if I keep at it I'll keep growing.
Do you want regardless of who might be better, you never know one day you'll be the one who is "better."

And for the record, I think you have many wonderful "things" about you!
XO

The Barnum Family said...

I don't have a "thing" either. I love music and piano and singing and I'm good at them, but I just don't put the time into them anymore. I think that has something to do with having 3 children. I like Kandis' comment. You should choose something you are passionate about and just pursue it in your own way.

sydni yoshioka said...

I think you've got the best sense of humor out of anyone I know! You’re super hilarious! Not sure if that qualifies as a "thing"...I’ve kinda been feeling the same way as you. I think I just need a hobby, something to do just for me, I was thinking about taking a dance class. Don’t know if that helps :)

Lyd said...

It took me a while before I got my "thing." I did dance for my whole life, so that was automatically my "thing." Although, now, running and cycling are my "things." It took me a while to get to that point. Just find something you would consider your passion, let it grow, and I'm sure you could call it your "thing."

Now that I write that, I find it funny that we have a "thing" people know us for. Rica, I would say your "thing" is being a good mom! Michelle and I always say that you're an awesome mom and I would say that's the best "thing" you can be known for! You know how to keep a home clean, have fun, cook, sew, be serious, sing, play the piano, run, and the list goes on! That sounds like the perfect woman! You're a crazy. You could even say that your "thing" is being good at a lot of things! :D

Lyd said...

P.S. My "thing" is being the only one to write on this post while my solitary self in my picture! My "thing" is being single! haha

Jaimie said...

I feel the same way a lot of times. Maybe your thing can be that you are good at lots of things. Sometimes people who just have the one 'thing' don't really have the knack for a whole slew of other things (for example I have a friend who can decorate the most beautiful cakes but doesn't really find enjoyment in much else), but you seem to have talent in several areas. So your thing might be the 'jack of all trades' kind of thing where you can step in to several situations and do a great job. I hope that rambling made sense :)

Unknown said...

You are the baking QUEEN! Where do you think Amber and I all of a sudden got this crazy love for cupcakes? We NEVER made cupcakes before we started making them with you. That is definitely a thing for you. Baking and cooking both. You've got me beat in both areas! (I'm just really good at eating whatever it is you make ha ha.)

Julie said...

Erika, You are a baking queen! I miss the yummy smells coming from the kitchen when I came home from work every day! You are also a great mommy and Lillie and Jack are blessed to have such a wonderful mommy!