Are You the Black Sheep of Your Family?
Disclaimer: This page contains affiliate links. If you choose to make a purchase after clicking a link, I may receive a commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for your support!
I’m the black sheep of my family. Are you?
If you’re not sure, below you’ll find what it means to the family black sheep, how to embrace it and more importantly why you should! If you are, welcome to the club!
WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE A BLACK SHEEP?
First let’s start with the term black sheep. It can have many definitions depending on whom you ask and their personal experience. Most often it tends to be used to describe a family member that doesn’t fit in, feels excluded from the family, or disagrees with family decisions.
Leaving the family norm often results in experiencing criticism, being blamed for family dysfunction, or even living as the family outcast. Sounds pretty shitty right? Well, that depends on your perspective!
Would you really want to live conforming to someone else’s idea of who you should be? If you’re reading this, my guess is no you would not!
EMBRACE YOUR COURAGE
Your decision to go against the grain likely resulted from a value or personal belief that you hold. I know mine did! In his book “Black Sheep - Unleash the Extraordinary, Awe-Inspiring, Undiscovered You”, Author Brant Menswar shares the importance of discovering our 5 core values and non-negotiables. Grounded in these, you can live your life with intention and purpose with personal boundaries in place to keep your peace.
YOU’RE INSPIRING OTHERS
When I first started to share my journey, I received countless messages from people thanking me for inspiring them. As I continue, each message becomes part of my driving force to stay true to my core values. You may not know it but you’ve likely inspired someone else to make a decision they were afraid to make!
INCREASED EMPATHY AND ACCEPTANCE:
As the black sheep of your family you’re likely more inclined to have empathy and acceptance of others who are forging their own path.
YOU’RE CREATING A LEGACY
Black sheep often leave a lasting impact on their families, friends and even their communities. Remember, “no great change in society (or generational dysfunction) has ever taken place because someone was playing follow -the-leader!” - (quote me)
From one black sheep to another, keep being your authentic self! Life is too short to be anything other than who we are isn’t it?
If you weren’t sure where you stood before reading this article, are you sure now?
Comment below and please take a moment to share!
I’m glad you’re here,
Jill Schmidt