My Personal Manifesto…What’s Yours?

Photo of the author by Lindsey Ramage (@mrsramage on Instagram)

Photo of the author by Lindsey Ramage (@mrsramage on Instagram)

Tuesday treat for you; today’s post is written by guest writer and friend, Dr. Brianne Grogan, DPT.  Enjoy…

Merriam-Webster defines manifesto as: “A written statement declaring publicly the intentions, motives, or views of its issuer.” You’re probably familiar with Lululemon’s manifesto… If you’re like me, you’ve practically memorized it since it’s emblazoned on (an embarrassing number of) reusable shopping bags scattered throughout your house.

I’m in the midst of a soul journey that has cracked my heart wide open and allowed me to — finally — come into my own as a business owner, a woman, a mother, a wife, and a daughter. As I approach my 35th birthday, I feel called to take a cue from Lulu and write my own manifesto. However, rather than focus solely on my current stance and view of life, I also want to capture the internal shift that has occurred of late… The subtle changes that mark the difference between who I was, and who I’m becoming.

Here’s my personal manifesto. What’s yours?

“I’m done judging my worth by the number of “likes” on my Facebook page. I’m done judging my value as a mother by every single action my son takes… Or doesn’t take. He is his own person… As am I. I don’t always fit into other peoples’ boxes (expectations), and I’m finally (mostly) okay with that. Furthermore, it’s okay that I’m only (mostly) okay. I’m a work in progress! If I’m done evolving that means I’m dead. 

I’m done judging my “goodness” by my ability and willingness to follow the rules and social norms. And what’s more? I don’t always need to smile. I don’t always need to be “on.” I don’t always need to “do.” Sometimes, I can just “be” and not feel guilty for taking a rest. 
 
I no longer judge my value as a wife by my appearance or the tidiness of hearth and home… My husband doesn’t care, and frankly, I don’t either. And by the way, I like yoga pants. It’s what I wear, every day, and that’s probably not going to change.
 
I’m done judging my success by the quantity of women I reach. It’s not about the breadth; rather, it’s about the DEPTH that I touch individual lives. My contribution to society isn’t based on my degree or my level of education. Instead, it’s about my PASSION and my willingness to share it.
 
I allow myself to FEEL and to follow my feelings. I allow myself to love and be loved. I allow myself to trust myself, to love myself, to feel worthy, and to be authentic and open… Even when I’m scared. Not everyone will love me, but the ones who do will never forget me.”

 

Here I am. This is me. It might seem odd that a majority of my manifesto is about who I am NOT; however, for me, this is one of the most effective ways to figure out who I actually am. Slowly… ever so slowly… I’m coming into focus.

Taking the time to write your personal manifesto can help you come into focus, too. I wish you a pleasant journey of self-discovery!

 

 

 

briannegroganDr. Brianne Grogan, DPT is a women’s health physical therapist, fitness expert, and author of the upcoming book, Lady Bits. Brianne is also the proud founder of FemFusion Fitness, helping women shine brighter through the power of clean eating and core-focused fitness. Visit her on Facebook or Twitter, and keep up with her on YouTube.
 

Comments

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2 comments

    • Yvette says:

      Thank YOU, Brianne, for writing for the Bright Side. Your article was really so insightful and helpful, to me as I’m sure others. So much of it resonated with me, particularly about not measuring your success by the breadth of women you reach, but by the depth. And I, too, am an unashamed yoga pant lover wearer:-)

      Hope to see you again soon, Brianne, at the Bright Side.

      Reply

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