Principle #5 – See Yourself and Others as Superheroes with Superpowers
What superhero do you identify with? Do you know what your superpowers are? I think we all are superheroes with superpowers! We have powers and abilities that are a part of us…our inner superhero-ness. Some of us know our strengths, but some don’t. When we understand and appreciate our superpowers, we can develop them and help everyone around us.
Last week, while I watched my grandson swim in the backyard, we discussed superheroes with superpowers. This is how our conversation went:
Him: “Mammy, I wish I was a superhero with superpowers.”
Me: “You do have superpowers, and you are my superhero.”
Him: “I don’t think I have special powers, but maybe my son will have them.” (A thought that only my deep thinking 9-year-old grandson can have.)
Me: “I think everyone has superpowers, and when people use their powers, it makes them a superhero.”
Him: “Then what are my superpowers?”
Me: “I think one of your superpowers is your curiosity. You like to learn about all kinds of science stuff like electricity, rocks, animals, and dinosaurs.”
Him: “Well, I do like science and learning things.”
Me: “And you use your special power to teach me about things you’ve learned, and that is what makes you, my superhero.”
Him: “Hmm…I guess I am a real superhero!!!” (He was so excited and resumed showing me his swimming skills.)
I love Mrs. Incredible from the movie The Incredibles. She’s a superhero mom that can do everything. She’s resourceful, organized, passionate, and protects her family. Her life gets hectic, but somehow, everything works out! She’s my kind of hero!
But seriously, I think we all have special powers. I’m not talking about the ability to fly or leap over buildings in a single bound. We have super strengths and characteristics that are a part of who we are. For example, the ability to absorb or learn new ideas, organize, plan, analyze, or even be sensitive to other’s feelings. Other people may notice our powers more than we do. Maybe you’ve been asked to complete a task at work because you have the best abilities to complete the job. Using our strengths builds our self-confidence and makes us feel valued and accepted…like we’re part of the team. When we embrace our powers, we can enhance our team, relationships, and even the world. And this makes us a superhero!
“I think you just have to appreciate who you are and hopefully they can see what a superhero is about.” – Lucy Liu
I also think it’s equally important to observe other people’s superpowers. We’ve all asked for help at one time or another. A friend may have a better ability or understanding to help you. Believing in their special powers builds a lasting connection. And when they help you, they are your hero.
We have many superheroes in our communities. Think about the healthcare heroes, teachers, and essential workers. We tend to take them for granted. We can help them feel like heroes by thanking them for their hard work.
“I think a hero is any person really intent on making this a better place for all people.”
– Maya Angelou
We are all superheroes, and we can use our powers to make a difference in our community. We just need to be ourselves and use the strengths we have. Wonder Woman said it best, “Because no matter how small an act of kindness or generosity or simple positivity you put out into the world, it will make a difference.” Be kind and share your gratitude for the heroes in your life. And let your inner superhero-ness shine through. Together we can accomplish so much! #superpowers
Freedom is possible!
Love,
Deb