Memoir
/ˈmemˌwär/ noun. a record of events written by a person having intimate knowledge of them and based on personal observation. Usually memoirs. an account of one's personal life and experiences; autobiography. the published record of the proceedings of a group or organization, as of a learned society.
On some level most of us realize our weaknesses. The more difficult part is understanding the negative impact these weaknesses have on us. Next week’s Memoir Monday prompt will take honesty, courage, and self-awareness to reap the maximum benefits. The reward for this might just be an ah-ha moment that leads to a better life. This is part of what the Memoir Monday initiative is all about. The big question is do you have the courage to tackle this one with raw honesty?
Memoir Monday has grown so much that I won’t be able to comment on everyone’s posts anymore (and get my own work done) but I’ll still be supporting your posts with reblogs, votes, and shares on my other social media accounts (X, Facebook, etc.).
For all of those who’ve regularly participated in Memoir Monday - keep going, you’re making great progress in chronicling your very own life story for future generations to enjoy.
For those who missed the inaugural post explaining what the Memoir Monday initiative is all about you can find it here.
Now for next week’s Memoir Monday prompt:
What is your biggest weakness?
My answer:
It's important for us all to know our strengths. We’re conditioned to identify the things we excel at for resumes and interviews, but I’d argue it’s even more important to understand our weaknesses.
I've always tried to lived my life with integrity, transparently. What you see is what you get with me. As I’ve become more self-aware in middle age, I’ve realized my biggest weakness is being too nice, too agreeable, and giving people more chances than they sometimes deserve. While I’ve made progress in setting boundaries, it doesn’t always come easily or naturally.
In our daily routines and challenges, it often seems simpler to give in to the wishes and demands of others to reduce friction, be liked, or keep the peace. The problem is that when we’re always the ones who yield, those around us can begin to feel entitled, expect compliance, and even take advantage of our kindness.
Through my journey, I’ve learned that the sacrifice of always keeping the peace often comes at the cost of wasted time and personal happiness. Ironically, being overly agreeable can create more friction in the long run than standing firm in our wishes and convictions. This tendency can also lead to resentment—not just toward others, but toward ourselves for failing to establish boundaries and prioritize our well-being.
Being easy-going is a deceptive trait. In the short term, we’re often rewarded for our flexibility and acceptance. People consider nice individuals easier to work with, and teachers or bosses may value and even reward compliance. However, viewing the world solely through a lens of kindness can create a false reality. It blinds us to the existence of toxic and broken people who seek out easy targets.
To thrive, we must approach our interactions with balance. It’s vital to be aware and not assume everyone we meet is well-intentioned. Compassionate and kind people need to don metaphorical armor to protect themselves. This doesn’t mean abandoning kindness, but rather coupling it with healthy boundaries and a commitment to our own happiness.
Achieving this balance is delicate. If we shift too far in the opposite direction, we risk becoming cynical, harsh, and pessimistic. We must remain hopeful and optimistic while ensuring we aren’t exploited. Most of us instinctively know when we’re being exploited. It’s safe to say if the suspicion that someone else is taking advantage of us arises inside us then there’s at least a kernel of truth to it.
Nearly every negative thing that I've ever experienced can be traced to this one weakness.
This is my greatest life lesson: kindness is a strength when wielded wisely, but it must be tempered with self-respect and boundaries. Only then can we truly nurture our peace and well-being.
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