I've always considered myself a late bloomer, not just because of a slower physical developmental process than my boarding schoolmates (which was really embarrassing because I didn't start wearing a trainers bra until high school), but also because I didn't discover my passions and natural gifts until well into my twenties.
Some people are averse to the concept of being a 'late bloomer' as it may imply that there is a set time to bloom. However, it actually suggests that reality is different from the ideal - an ideal that societal pressure doesn't exist. And, even though the world celebrates getting ahead at the onset of your adult years (with the expectation that it keeps you ahead for a lifetime), the concept of 'late blooming' embraces the unconventional and emphasises the erasure of timeline expectations for success.
In a world where success is often measured by how quickly you climb the corporate ladder, how many milestones or achievements you share in public, or how many hours you grind away at work, it's easy to feel out of place if you're a late bloomer. But here's the secret: staying true to yourself and embracing authenticity can be your superpower. In fact, it pays off in more ways than you might imagine. But what does it mean to be a late bloomer?
Being a late bloomer is like being a hidden treasure in a garden of early bloomers. While your peers dazzle the world with their early success, you take your time to develop beneath the surface. When you finally bloom, it's a profound revelation, showcasing the beauty of patience, resilience, and the uniqueness that comes with a journey all your own.
Late bloomers remind us that greatness often takes time. They teach us to appreciate the value of patience and the depth that comes from life's experiences. So, embrace your journey, for when you finally bloom, your beauty shines brighter for the world to see.
So many people go through life in a conventional order and manner, and they experience an early success that also is a reflection of their hard work. Some people get to have an amazing career in their early twenties, build thriving businesses, nurture families, secure their financial future, and acquire relevant academic qualifications all before their thirtieth year around the sun. The aim of this blog post is to share that while this journey is what the world holds in high esteem, it is nerve-wracking for those walking an unconventional path, not appearing to grow as fast as their peers using societal quantitative metrics for growth. If you fall in the latter category, you have the power of authenticity to your advantage:
1. Discovering Your Unique Path
Late bloomers often have the advantage of taking their time to explore and discover their true passions and talents. While others may scurry to follow a predefined path, late bloomers have the opportunity to forge their own unique journey. In my life, this translated to finding a career or a calling that aligns with my authentic self - I now experience greater job satisfaction and fulfilment. And I'm glad I took my time with this one.
2. Building Resilience and Patience
Authenticity requires patience and resilience, two qualities that can serve you well in a world that seems to value speed and instant results. As a late bloomer, I faced setbacks and obstacles along the way, especially with my educational background, which made me feel left behind and always didn't feel like I was good enough to be in the rooms I walked into. Facing these setbacks helped me develop the resilience needed to weather life's challenges. This resilience has proven to be a valuable asset in my personal and professional life. I didn't know how much resilience I had built until I had to leave unwanted and difficult situations and relationships, and most recently until I had to mourn my mom.
3. Authentic Connections
In a society where superficial connections are prevalent, authenticity can help you forge deep and meaningful relationships. Being a late bloomer forced me to become true to myself. It allowed me to attract people who appreciate and accept me for who I am, not just for what I can offer them. Before I accepted that I was a late bloomer, I tried so hard to fit in, be accepted and be loved. It took so much from me - my self-esteem, credibility, power and hope. Accepting who I am and knowing my identity has shaped my relationship with others, and, myself, and I am recovering all that I thought I lost.
4. Avoiding Burnout
Hustle culture often leads to burnout, as people push themselves to the limit in pursuit of success. As a late bloomer who values authenticity, you're more likely to prioritize self-care and work-life balance. Every time I tried to force my flower open, all I ended up doing was burning myself and hurting myself. I pressured myself in many aspects of my life and I paid a dear price. Learning that I'm a late bloomer has taught me to approach life differently, chase slowly, and ground myself in the present. This has helped me avoid burnout, maintain my physical and mental health, and ultimately achieve long-term success without sacrificing my well-being.
5. Leaving a Lasting Legacy
Authenticity isn't just about personal success; it's also about leaving a lasting legacy. Late bloomers often make significant contributions to their fields precisely because they've taken the time to develop their unique skills and perspectives. Accepting that I am in late bloom has given me the patience to hone my craft, gain mastery and contribute meaningfully to my field. My authenticity inspires others to embrace their own journeys, and my work is having a profound and lasting impact on the world.
6. Embracing Growth and Learning
Late bloomers tend to have a growth mindset, valuing personal development and continuous learning. I'm constantly committed to growth, in fact, personal development is a part of my top three core values. Every time I got blocked, I went back to my drawing board to reflect on what I needed to do differently, and what more about myself I needed to understand (and accept). This mindset is leading me to a more fulfilling life and career, as I'm even more open to new experiences and challenges. I understand that it's never too late to learn, grow, and evolve.
7. Inspiring Others
By staying true to yourself and thriving as a late bloomer, you become an inspiration to others who may be feeling pressured to conform to society's expectations. I'm hoping that my story can encourage anyone reading this to embrace your authenticity and pursue your passions, even if it means taking a different path or starting later in life.
In a world that often celebrates the fast-paced, hustle-centric lifestyle, staying authentic as a late bloomer may seem like a challenge. However, the rewards of discovering your unique path, building resilience, forming authentic connections, avoiding burnout, leaving a lasting legacy, embracing growth, and inspiring others are well worth the journey. Remember that it's never too late to bloom, and your authenticity can be your greatest asset in a world that values realness above all else. So, embrace your late-blooming journey and watch how it pays off in ways you never imagined.
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