How to Talk About Your Weaknesses

In Japanese culture, there is an ancient art called kintsugi, where broken pottery is repaired with gold. Instead of hiding the cracks, the gold highlights them, transforming the once-broken object into something even more beautiful and unique.

This philosophy teaches us that flaws and imperfections are not something to be ashamed of but an essential part of our story.

Let Me Explain:

When it comes to our own weaknesses, many of us try to hide them, fearing judgment or rejection. But just as kintsugi celebrates cracks with gold, talking about our weaknesses honestly can create opportunities for connection, growth, and strength.

Here’s how the art of kintsugi can help us reframe and communicate our vulnerabilities:

Let’s Deep Dive:

1. Acknowledge the Crack

• Begin by being honest with yourself. Recognizing your weaknesses doesn’t make you less; it makes you human.
• Pretending to be flawless only creates distance between you and others. Vulnerability invites authenticity.

2. Add the Gold

• Instead of focusing solely on what you lack, share how you are working to improve.
• For example: “I used to struggle with public speaking, but I’ve started taking workshops, and I’ve seen a lot of growth in how I express myself.”

“Our greatest weakness lies in giving up. The most certain way to succeed is always to try just one more time.” – Thomas Edison

3. Emphasize the Value of the Lesson

• Weaknesses often come with lessons. Sharing what you’ve learned shows self-awareness and resilience.
• Example: “Struggling with time management taught me the importance of prioritizing tasks and asking for help when needed.”

4. Flip the Perspective

• Some weaknesses, when reframed, can be strengths in disguise.
• Example: “I can be overly detail-oriented, but I’ve learned that this helps me produce high-quality work when balanced with clear deadlines.”

Bringing It Home:

Talking about weaknesses is not about creating excuses or seeking sympathy. It’s about embracing your imperfections with courage and using them to connect and grow.

Like kintsugi, let the gold of your growth and effort transform your weaknesses into something valuable and unique. You are not defined by your flaws but by how you respond to them.

Recommended Read:
If this resonates with you, I highly recommend The Gifts of Imperfection by Brené Brown. It’s a powerful guide to embracing who you are and finding strength in vulnerability.

Learning never stops.
Take a moment to reflect and act on what resonates with you.
Keep evolving.
– MJ Nyota