The Secret Society of Late Bloomers
Also known as the “Glo’ up,” it’s funny how we define this phrase on so many levels. Financially, physically, and generally, the “Glo’ up” can happen in various aspects of life. BUT, for those of us out there that have been perpetually late to the glo-up in all its levels since birth ( Me too Sis! ) let me explain why it’s okay.
For one, we all get concerned about fitting in at an early age. Trying to dress a certain way to attract the cute guy at school (I know you see this poppin’ outfit), wanting to have the new technology first so you can be included in discussions, or even changing your hair to the new wave.
We’ve all been there in some form or fashion; the difference for late bloomers is that trying to fit in doesn’t actually work. We fail miserably at it. A late bloomer is a person whose talents or capabilities are not visible to others until later than usual. Most of the time a late bloomer’s talents and capabilities are not even visible to themselves.
That is why being an outsider as a late bloomer is exactly what you need. Late bloomers are able to take their time in building a better understanding of themselves because generally, nobody else is going to understand you.
Some of the most amazing people have been late bloomers in life. Like Samuel L. Jackson who upon recovering from drug addiction landed his breakout role in pulp fiction. He was 46. J.K. Rowling, Tina Fey, Stephanie Myers, and Julia Child, Colonel Sanders, Bryan Cranston (Breaking Bad’s Walter White). I loved that show! Anyway, you get the point. Developing “on time” is not everyone’s destined path.
Bryan Cranston
Nowadays, we’re all so focused on having everything figured out in our 20s that we miss the benefits of taking our time. Late bloomers often have no choice in the matter. Whether its being a late bloomer financially, or a late bloomer who is just now accepting all your curves (or LACK thereof LOL); being late to the game teaches you a thing or two.
1. Many times you develop empathy for others. Late bloomers often feel like outcast and develop empathy for those who are different from mainstream society.
2. You have a strong sense of who you are because you were never able to fit into popular stereotypes.
3. Playing catch-up to different milestones helps you appreciate the experience more.
4. You learn from the mistakes of those who have gone before you.
5. Once you get older you’re not burnt out or bored by having already experienced things at an earlier age.
As a late bloomer don’t ever think that being different is a bad thing. Everyone is different in some way. And as corny as it sounds your lateness is what makes you special.When you discover your talents and skills at an older age you often are then equipped to nurture them.
I had two older sisters who were popular throughout high school because they already had a strong sense of who they were.While I loved seeing their experiences, I couldn’t mimic them even if I wanted to.
I was still lame through college. I think I might be lame still but in MY mind I’ve been poppin’ since Junior high sooooo who knows. However, being a late bloomer has taught me to appreciate exactly who I am, the way I am. I hope that all the late bloomers out there will feel the same way about themselves because Glo’ ups are inevitable but loving yourself; well, that’s entirely up to you.
Also Toni Morrison was a late bloomer and I absolutely adore her work.If you don’t know who she is DO BETTA!
Check out these articles!
https://www.buzzfeed.com/kevintang/late-blooming-artists?utm_term=.maYyN75DdG#.fyOzrdZD7X
Great text 😊 No shame in being a late bloomer 👍
Thank you LOL no shame at all
As an LB myself, I can only say I wish I had read something like this as a young sprig. Age has its benefits, for sure. Thanks for posting this!
Seriously, if someone would have just told me these things LOL .I appreciate you reading and commenting!