Showing Up Awkward
How imperfection and human moments create the deepest connections
A few weeks ago, I went to a Pokémon GO meetup with my spouse. We have been many times and though we tend to keep to ourselves, we recognize the other regulars. On this very warm and sunny day, we found ourselves next to the community ambassador (think: coordinator):
“Hey, how are you?” I asked.
“Good thanks, and you?” they said.
“Good, and you?” I replied… immediately realizing what I had done.
I shook my head and said: “Sorry, I’m awkward.”
This wasn’t the first time. I’ve been in important meetings, briefing senior leaders, and completely forgotten terms that I use every day in my own field. Instead of pausing to collect myself, I plunged into a long, stumbling explanation because I didn’t want to lose the thread.
Life isn’t polished. I’m not prepared for everything that comes my way. And I am trying to stop pretending that I am.
Perfectionism tells us that if we can’t do something just right, we shouldn’t do it at all. It convinces us that it’s better to wait until we’re perfectly prepared, perfectly composed, and perfectly articulate.
In my head, it sounds amazing. Part of me still wants to experience this. Alas, I am a recovering perfectionist.
The problem? That “perfect” moment rarely comes. And it would keep me from showing up at all. It has kept me on the outside more than once.
Not starting the conversation because I might fumble my words.
Not going to the meetup because I might feel awkward being the new kid.
Not participating in the meeting because I might not have the perfect answer.
Which has lead to missed connections, missed contributions, and missed opportunities to be present.
Perfectionism is a barrier to connection.
Awkwardness is the bridge.
When I greet someone twice, or lose a key term mid-sentence, or send an email with a typo (I do this a lot!)… it’s not a failure. It’s evidence that I am human, in real time, in real life.
The “ministry” part isn’t about being a professional minister—it’s about the work of being present. It’s the decision to show up to the messy, unpredictable reality of human interaction and building community.
Showing up awkward is one the bravest, boldest things we can do. Because it means we value connection over performance. It means we trust that even if the words come out wrong, the intent can still come through.
So here’s my blessing for you today:
May you greet someone twice and let those giggles lead to connection.
May you forget the perfect word and say the imperfect one instead.
May you show up before you feel ready and may community show up for you with a smile and an open heart.
And may you trust that awkwardness leads us to connection - and that my friends, holy ground.