The Perfect Plate Size for Me
It’s crazy how often I compare myself to others, especially when it comes to achievements, goals, and my responsibilities as a mom. Life is hard enough without the constant comparisons to others. I have to remember that everyone has a unique journey and a way of life that is acceptable for them, and comparing myself to others can lead to me unfairly judging both me and them. We all have our own set of strengths, capabilities, and unique circumstances. A concept that captures this idea is the notion that we each have a plate that determines how much we can carry and some of us have larger plates than others.
Life is not one-size fits all; we all have different internal and external things that contribute to the size of our plates. We are created uniquely and our life experiences including our upbringing, education, opportunities, support system, personal circumstances, individual strengths, and personal responsibilities can all significantly impact the size of our plates. In addition, just like with food, we all have our preferences and choices that can influence how we navigate our daily lives. Some of us prefer a wide range of experiences and responsibilities, while others find peace in simplicity. Some of us thrive with a smaller plate, focusing on a few things we truly love and do well; while some embrace a larger plate, seeking constant challenges and growth.
For people that have larger plates and carry more responsibilities, they may have learned different skills, have a strong support system, or just handle lots of things well in order to manage the contents of their plate. While those of us with smaller plates may need to manage our mental and emotional well-being to ensure that we are able to handle our responsibilities fully. We may not have the same support system or maybe we thrive managing things one or two at a time. Our ability to handle these responsibilities is influenced by many things and for each one of us, what we are able to deal with at any given moment may be much less, while at other times we are able to manage much more. Having a smaller plate doesn’t mean that I am not doing just as well as someone with a bigger plate. It is important for me to respect and acknowledge that everyone’s plate is not the same size and understand that the size of my plate does not determine my success or joy.
The world often defines success based on external factors such as wealth, status, or achievement. However, my success should be defined on an individual level. It is not determined by the size of my plate, but rather by how I choose to handle my own challenges with what abilities that God has gifted me and considering my unique aspirations, values, and passions. When I focus on myself and measure success based on my own personal growth and fulfillment, I can appreciate that with my smaller plate I may be thriving just as much, if not more, than someone with a larger plate.
Practice for Today
Today I will remember that life cannot be measured by the size of my plate. Whether my plate is small or large, what truly matters is finding fulfillment, happiness, and meaning in my own unique way. Today I will choose to focus on my own capabilities, strengths, and circumstances that shape my journey. Instead of comparing and criticizing, I will celebrate the differences of the people around me, recognizing and appreciating the unique contributions that each of us brings.
Theodore Roosevelt – “Comparison is the thief of joy.”
Galatians 6:4-5 Each one should test their own actions. Then they can take pride in themselves alone, without comparing themselves to someone else, for each one should carry their own load.