We’re halfway through January already. I decided to write a month-long series on humanity. I’m going to humbly reflect on my own as a way to model vulnerability, self-acceptance, and humanbeingness. So, stay tuned for a month of silly and, at times, exposing the tea on Dr. Amy. So, here we go with the lighthearted and silly.

I cannot use chopsticks. I never have been able to master the skill of chopstick use. My kids and husband are masterful. My husband swirls the chopstick around in his fingers and then digs right back in. But, I’ve decided, I’m not a chopstick person. There. I said it. 

Please don’t send me a bunch of videos on chopstick use. Here’s the thing: this is not a growth mindset issue. It’s a self-acceptance and capacity issue. First, I fully accept my lack of coordination with chopsticks. And, when I’m hungry, I don’t want to deal with them. I don’t want to try to learn more, I just want to enjoy the noodles (with chicken and broccoli please!). Savoring my meal and trying to coordinate my relationship with chopsticks are in direct competition. So, savoring wins. Second, it’s a capacity issue. In terms of all the things I want to learn, chopsticks don’t come in very high. Here are a few things that rank above “Amy learning to use chopsticks”: 

• Understanding why my plant leaves yellow and how to dust them more efficiently
• Trying to keep black clothes from fading (yes, I’ve tried vinegar)
• Getting outside to walk every day even when it’s rainy (I hate walking in the rain – it’s horrible for my hair)
• Knowing when to buy new tires. (How is this built into my husband’s DNA?)
• Learning more Spanish words for public speaking events – I’ve got one good “dad joke” in Spanish, so I feel pretty accomplished!

So, this week, I want you to think of a skill, trait, or behavior you can admit you’ll never be good at and simply accept. We can’t be good at everything. If you’re a Millennial, this might be surprising to you and we all owe you a huge apology for giving prizes out for everything. Please correct this as you parent. And Gen Z, we’re sorry that made you so anxious to be perfect all.of.the.time. 

OK, it’s the month of self-acceptance. So, tell me – what are you horrible at and never hope to get better?

And if someone you love needs to hear this message, please encourage them to join us on this weekly dose of love.