I was given a perfect gift. I say “perfect” because I just love it, I know it was given with love, and I know I can pass it on to others. It is a stunning, inspiring, beautiful book, titled, “You Are Beautiful” written by Matthew Hoffman. Here is an overview of his project:
The book is a work of art in itself and it is somewhat of a ‘how to’ (but not) for how to put yourself out there and share your art. It is about how small ideas can have a huge impact. It is about how life won’t always be easy, and things won’t always work out, and some people won’t always get what you do, but life is beautiful, nonetheless, and so are you. It is peppered with Seth Godin-isms (which I love) and full of humility, hope, and inspiration.
Here is an overview of what to expect from the book. Just from the 10 chapter titles, you should get the idea of the inspiration the pages hold! (I see a drawing or some such thing being created from this fab list!).
Chapter 1: Start Anywhere…As Long As It’s Now!
Chapter 2: Keep Going…You’ve Got This!
Chapter 3: Put Your Back Into It….Get Your Hands Dirty!
Chapter 4: Take Action…Embrace Risk!
Chapter 5: Create Impact…Do A Lot With A Little!
Chapter 6: Start A Conversation…See Where It Leads!
Chapter 7: Make It Yours…Run With It!
Chapter 8: Work Together…Invite People Into Your World!
Chapter 9: Be Open…Define Your Success!
Chapter 10: Be Spectacular…Be YOU!
In light of the upcoming PYP Exhibition that my students will be embarking on, with a central idea of: “Small Actions Can Make A Big Impact”, I couldn’t think of a more perfect resource to share with my kids. At first I was thinking, “But won’t they just want to copy?” and then I remembered that I am also encouraging them to “Steal Like An Artist” and remix other people’s ideas for the greater good. After sharing the YAB project with them, I want to share Austin’s list with them:
Then I want to know: “What would a “good theft” or a “good steal” of the You Are Beautiful project look like? I look forward to sharing their ideas with you.
As for me, I am excited to share the YAB message in my travels, armed with my own You Are Beautiful stickers. For now though, I am starting with me.
My first sticker has been placed at the base of my computer. As my eyes sweep from my screen to my keyboard, they must pass over this sticker. You Are Beautiful. Sweep, Sweep. You Are Beautiful. Sweep, Sweep.
Sometimes I don’t feel so beautiful. I feel tired, grumpy, disheartened and disconnected. When I see the sticker – that little piece of silver paper – I am reminded of the friend who gave it to me, of our incredible friendship, and of the faith she has in me. I remember to value, to appreciate, to acknowledge. I remember to hug, smile, laugh, and keep going. What a gift. What a friend.
What are you waiting for? Get your stickers now! 🙂
sonya terborg 
We put a YAB sticker on an electrical box by the scary house with CHiPs officer statue. We stuck it on, screamed, and ran away 🙂
I love it! I will look out for it when we next head to the pool! xx