Tatie Danielle, a mentor for self-esteem?

The iconic moment of Tatie Danielle

What if Tatie Danielle, often seen as an eccentric and difficult character, could become, if only for a few hours, an inspiring mentor for boosting self-esteem? Remember that iconic moment when, in her nightgown, Tatie Danielle invites herself to a dinner organized by her niece. An act of social bravery, or a hidden lesson on self-affirmation?

Experiencing shame to liberate oneself

You might identify with the profile of the perfect pupil: ultra-professional, always conforming to expectations, at the risk of losing yourself. Or perhaps you recognize this trait in some of your colleagues or team members.

Those who succeed at everything, until an incident (a dismissal, a burnout, a tough year, a promotion that never comes…) shakes that image of perfection and, with it, their self-esteem.

I sometimes encourage my perfectionist clients to consciously experience shame. How? By going to a meeting not perfectly prepared, arriving late without apologizing, or starting a meeting unprepared. Even leaving at 4 PM without apparent reason can be a liberating act. The idea is to taste shame, in a homeopathic and chosen dose but also to discover the liberating power of transgressing the norms of perfection.

Opening up to a new Field of possibilities

And you know what? Many who try this exercise find they enjoy it. Their self-esteem is strengthened, and they learn that they can choose when and how to activate their “perfect pupil” persona. They also discover that they can give free rein to their rebellious side, one that knows how to detach from the judgment of others, which opens up a whole new field of possibilities.

Would you accept to play the role of the impertinent Tatie Danielle for a few days? Have you ever experienced a moment of shame and managed to laugh it off, distancing yourself from the judgment of others?