The Treasure Hiding in Your Story

An imperfect story doesn't mean it isn't worthy of being heard. It means it's relatable.

I love going on long walks, especially in nature, and even more so at the beach. It's my happy place.

During a recent visit to see my family in Florida, I stayed with my mom, who lives on Sand Key in Clearwater Beach. The area is known for sand dollars, and it’s not unusual to see people strolling the shore with their heads down, scanning the sand for a perfect one. 

A whole sand dollar is rare. Most of the time, you’ll see pieces scattered along the tide line, and finding one that's fully intact feels like winning a mini treasure hunt.

On this particular morning, I was walking alone, soaking in the quiet and reflecting. I found two whole sand dollars, but when I picked them up and inspected them, I noticed they weren’t perfect. One was worn down too much on one side, making it uneven. The other had chipped edges and a chunk missing right in the middle, probably from being tumbled over and over by the waves.

Still, I kept them, when others would have discarded them.

There was something beautiful about their imperfections. They had made it. They were shaped by the sea, worn and weathered, but still whole in their own way.

It reminded me that perfection is overrated. More than that, it’s nearly impossible. And honestly, the flaws are what made these sand dollars feel special. 

Our lives and stories are the same. 

We are all shaped by the pounding waves of this thing we call life. By the moments that chip and crack us. It’s those flaws that make us relatable, and make our stories worth telling.

That’s why sharing your story matters. Not the polished version. The real one. Because someone out there is facing their own turning tides, and your story might be the thing that lets them know they’re not alone. The thing that helps them get back up and take the next step. 

So if you’ve been holding back on sharing your story, don’t. Your story matters and is worthy of being heard, imperfections and all. 

Feeling inspired to share your story? We’re here to help. Whether you're still shaping what you want to say, working through nerves, or just want a little guidance on how to bring it to life, we've got your back.

Speak Success,

Shannon Malkin Daniels

Founder, SPEAC Success

Public Speaking & Authenticity Coach