Most of us have been in an organized group where we do an "icebreaker" to help introduce the group and create a comfortable environment. There are all kinds of icebreakers, but one I've seen done fairly frequently is naming something interesting about yourself (unusual talent, unknown fact, etc). Inevitably, there is always someone or more than one someone that doesn't think they have anything interesting to contribute. I couldn't disagree more.
Everyone has something to contribute. Whether or not we can think of it on the spot is another story, so I challenge you to really think about yourself and get ready for that next icebreaker or conversation with a new person. Even now, you may deny that something is unique or interesting about you. I'll be more than happy to prove you wrong. I'm very good at asking questions.
The thing to keep in mind is that "interesting" is all relative, much like perspective and opinions. What you find boring (because you've known it all your life) can be very exciting to someone who has never experienced something like that before.
I believe that people are stories, the sum of their experiences
and decisions of the moment.
In all the world and all the Universe, there is only one You. This doesn't make you a unique Snowflake, entitled to anything special more than anyone else because hey, I'm the only Me there is, too. But no one else has had the same experiences, made the same mistakes or choices, been to the same places, tried the same things...you get the idea. You are the sum of everything you have seen, felt, heard, touched, tasted, learned, ignored or relished.
Still not convinced? Start from the beginning. Our parents help us who become who we are. Whether you love them, had only one, were adopted or cut family ties, your parents set you on a unique path.
My parents are awesome. And my kid brother is pretty awesome, too. Our household has a lot of laughs at family gatherings. Skip the drama. There's four of us out here in the Midwest, and we're a close-knit group despite some distance. We did a lot of things together, even before we moved to the Mitten State. We walked through the woods behind our house to pick berries, went to the duck pond, went on road trips, celebrated Father's Day with a water balloon ambush...
Go ahead, think about that, about your childhood. Something you did with your family that makes you unique. For me, it was fireworks. And when I was 18, my Mom, Dad and I all worked on the same fireworks crew to set up, shoot and tear down shows in Southern Mittengan. Yes, that's usually the unique tidbit I share about myself. That, or the three octave singing range.
But back to people and stories.
I think this is why I love talking to people so much. I am a lover of words and stories, so it makes sense I like the walking, talking, breathing kind as well. I'm still adamant that there's something we can all say during those icebreakers that will be better than "there's nothing interesting about me". Sometimes it just takes a fresh set of eyes.
Here's a list of random stuff about people I know: writes comics, is a best-selling author, was an extra on Walking Dead, has dual citizenship, works at a video game company, has a homebrew called Violet Beauregarde, performs improv, has a company that works to reduce trash at festivals and races, is a Jeopardy champion.
And here's some even more random stuff: won't use paper towels, can't eat potluck food, can make the sound of a cricket, is afraid of all animals, vehemently hates kissing Dutch children figurines.
Writers take seemingly ordinary things and give new perspective. Your boring is an author's inspiration.
Be warned.
Those who dream by day are cognizant of many things which escape those who dream only by night.
Edgar Allan Poe
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