Be Yourself

Last night for our evening entertainment, the boys and I watched a little bit of Flula on Youtube. We saw a clip of him on Conan which is a pretty big spot to be able to cameo for any Youtuber. We hadn't looked him up in a while and it was nice to see that he's made a progressive career out of being himself. It helps that he's funny, quirky and random. And that's where the conversation starts. Because we are all funny, quirky and random. But how many of us actually allow that to be seen by others? And how hard would it be to embrace those parts of ourselves ON STAGE, for all the world to see?

Now, I know that some of this is a stage act but as I watch Flula emote, I realize that this is why it works.
He has something that everybody wants.

He maintains the freedom to completely Be Himself.

Without apology.

With almost a childlike innocence.

This is actually self love in the deepest way.

As I was monologing to the boys about this, I had them pause the video and begin to be aware of the dynamics. This clip is a perfect demonstration of fiercely being yourself, so much so that it is a natural form of energetic leadership. Every interaction has an energy exchange, a balance or imbalance of personal power. And in this situation, you have Conan, whose energy has to be big enough to anchor the program. The other two co-guests who are well known comedians also carry a strong supporting stage presence. Flula could have come on stage assuming all of the other comedians had 'made it' and he may have waited for them to set the tone of the show. He could have subtly adjusted his behavior to 'match' the flavor in the room. Our DNA says it's safer to blend into the tribe than to stand out. Especially when there's already a leader present. We just automatically 'know' to do that. But he doesn't follow that format at all. In fact, he is so himself that everybody is a little bit transfixed by his 'selfness' and this becomes energetic leadership.

When you be who you are it gives others a template for how to do that, what that looks like. It gives permission.
This is the beginning of healing a collective root of shame, repression and fear of the 'tribal outcast' position. This healthy level of self acceptance is inviting and builds foundation for connection and community. Such a great reminder when you don't feel like you are 'doing enough' in the world and everything in the news appears to be going to shit that your best offering can be done easily in the checkout line in the supermarket, just by being yourself. What a gift to our world you are. This high quality self love is so magnetic. Opportunities for more expression of it unfold wherever it shows up. By the end of Flula's clip, Conan is planning a trip to Germany. If you search on Youtube you can watch how this inspiring dynamic continues. And is SO funny!

Watch it unfold.