Know yourself and you will discover that you are special.

The International Day of Persons with Disabilities invites us to think about human variety and the importance of integrating and celebrating our individualities. In collaboration with the Bertín Osborne Foundation, this video addresses the idea of “normalcy,” encourages introspection and underscores the need to develop communities open to all.

What does it mean to be “normal”? The Subjectivity of Normal in Our Lives

The concept of what is normal is often intricately complex and subjective. What many see as “normal” changes widely among different cultures, societies and personal perspectives. We analyze the relativity of normal and its variability in different settings, showing how diversity is fundamental to our existence.

Normality as a Construction of Society:

Normality does not exist and the norm is a human invention. Normality is not born as something objective; rather, it is a social product that represents the customs and principles prevailing in a particular culture. Therefore, what is normal for one community may be less so for another, thus highlighting its relativity.

Being part of the group

The human being wants to be part of society, to be accepted in the group and therefore identifies with it. We want to be part of the majority and therefore we establish that the majority is normal because it is the most common. To be part of that group we want to think that we are normal because we are part of the social group.

Normality is the goal of the Mind:

Our mind wants, seeks and favors the normal and Normality. We want to think that we are normal. NOT standing out and being standard is something that stimulates us and makes us feel safe because the “bad”, or the risk is in the different, that is why we innately have a certain tendency to want to be normal and do not want to see our differences.

Diverse Normalities in Different Cultures:

Each cultural group establishes its own rules and expectations that define what is normal for them. For example, attitudes about time, emotions or interactions can be very different from one culture to another, and what is acceptable in one may be strange or not understood in another.

Normality in History:

Perceptions of normality also transform over time. Customs seen as normal in the past may be rethought and questioned as society progresses and our understanding of human diversity deepens.

Diversity as an Essential Element of Life:

Diversity is, in fact, an inseparable part of human life. Variations in abilities, appearances, thoughts and experiences are the fabric that enriches our community and our understanding of our environment. Embracing diversity means understanding that there is no single pattern of normality and that being unique is key to our collective identity.

Challenges to the Pressure of Being Normal:

Conforming to society’s expectations can present significant challenges. People who do not meet those expectations often face rejection and discrimination. This reminds us how necessary it is to challenge inflexible ideas of normality and strive to create more tolerant and diverse environments.

The Power of Diversity: Powering Society with Creativity and Solutions

Diversity, seen as the wealth of distinctive traits of people in a society, emerges as a key factor in enhancing social development. This study highlights the fundamental role of diversity and how it contributes to progress and problem solving. Research confirms that diverse communities are more dynamic and full of new ideas.

Diversity Driving New Ideas:

Innovation thrives where different opinions and ideas coexist. Diversity in gender, ethnicity, skills or life experiences is conducive to a constant dialogue of different points of view. Studies show that diverse teams tend to come up with more original and successful solutions.

Solutions in Diverse Contexts:

A variety of perspectives not only fuels creativity, but also enhances the ability to solve challenges from different perspectives, thus increasing the quality of decisions and effectiveness in resolving conflicts. Diversity of capabilities and approaches expands the options for addressing challenges in a holistic manner.

Research Supporting Diversity:

There are multiple research studies that show the relationship between diversity and success in different fields. Studies in companies, academic institutions and communities have indicated that diverse environments favor the generation of ideas and adaptability. Such research suggests that organizations with diversity in their structure are more resilient to change and are better prepared to overcome obstacles.

Diversity as a Valuable Resource:

Diversity is affirmed as a precious asset for society. Rather than being seen as problematic, differences can be seen as occasions for mutual learning and common advancement. The value of diversity lies not only in the plurality of perspectives, but also in the creation of more equitable and inclusive environments.

Challenges and Strengths of Valuing Diversity:

While diversity brings many benefits, it also faces reticence. Fear of change and ingrained prejudices can be obstacles to acceptance. However, overcoming these challenges can make us stronger, creating a more robust society that is better able to meet the challenges of the 21st century.

The Self-Awareness Initiative: Enhancing Self-Esteem and Fostering Empathy

With the support of the Bertín Osborne Foundation, we joined the self-knowledge initiative, which aims to promote personal understanding and foster empathy. This journey not only helps to consolidate self-esteem but also strengthens ties with our community.

Personal Discovery:

The self-knowledge initiative suggests an introspective journey, an immersion in our experiences, beliefs and goals. Accepting our strengths, recognizing our insecurities and understanding our deepest desires are crucial for a firm foundation in personal development and self-affirmation.

Strengthening Self-Esteem:

Knowing who we are strengthens self-esteem. By understanding our capabilities and limits, we can accept what makes us different and learn to value ourselves. Healthy and positive self-esteem is fundamental to face challenges with confidence and maintain solid interpersonal relationships.

Encourage Empathy through Self-knowledge:

This initiative proposes to go beyond personal reflection, highlighting how knowing ourselves helps to develop empathy. By understanding our own struggles, we can be more receptive to others. This process of identification fosters closer ties and a shared sense of humanity.

Real Connections:

Understanding ourselves prepares us for more authentic and richer relationships. Awareness of our needs and principles enables us to forge stronger and more rewarding bonds. Empathy born of self-knowledge facilitates a better understanding of others, nurturing more thoughtful and valuable bonds.

Useful Methods of the Initiative:

The campaign provides practical methods to guide this introspective journey. With reflection exercises, questionnaires and even digital resources, it becomes a guide for those determined to deepen their identity and better understand how their experiences affect their perception of the world and themselves.

Social impact of self-discovery:

Beyond the personal, the initiative underscores the positive social impact that results from a society composed of introspective and understanding beings. Self-acceptance and mutual understanding are pillars for open communities, where variety is valued and collective well-being is supported.

Confronting Stereotypes: Removing Obstacles and Changing Narratives.

In this reflection, we confront the challenge of stereotypes surrounding disability, understanding how these preconceptions can limit people’s perceptions and opportunities. By uncovering stories of triumph, we aim to influence the transformation of the disability-related narrative.

Prejudices about Disability:

Stereotypes rooted in disability often consolidate reductionist and erroneous ideas. Such prejudices may manifest themselves in the undervaluing of abilities, the assumption of complete dependence or the tendency to identify people only by their disability, ignoring their abilities and scope.

Restrictive Influence of Prejudice:

Clichés not only alter how people with disabilities are viewed, but also restrict their possibilities and experiences. Underestimating their abilities can translate into exclusion in the educational, labor and social spheres, limiting their access and full development.

Tales of Triumph and Struggle:

It is crucial to share cases of people with disabilities who have conquered obstacles, highlighting their abilities, talents and achievements. Not only do they destroy prejudices, but they demonstrate the diversity of abilities and successes within this community.

Perseverance Models:

We present real examples of people who, despite adversity, have excelled in different areas. From Paralympic athletes to successful professionals and talented artists, they are proof that a disability does not limit what a person can achieve and that barriers can be removed with the right support and determination.

Challenging Public Vision:

To dismantle stereotypes we need to challenge how the public views disability, recognizing the valuable contributions of people with disabilities rather than focusing on limitations.

The Relevance of a Positive Image:

Representation in media and pop culture has a key influence on overall perception. It is critical to strive for a positive and truthful portrayal of people with disabilities in films, programs, publications and other media, which not only contradicts prejudice, but also reaffirms that diversity is beneficial.

Motivating Social Transformation:

Breaking stereotypes requires a cultural revolution that includes education, awareness and the promotion of inclusive thinking. It is vital to establish environments of equality and mutual respect for a society in which people with disabilities can develop and contribute to the fullest.

We Are One: Overcoming Obstacles and Celebrating Connection in Variety

The expression “We are all one” hides a powerful message that makes us meditate on the intrinsic bond that unites all individuals. Yet our focus on differences often becomes obstacles that divert us from this essential truth. In this essay, we will see how the differences we perceive can, instead of enriching our collective bond, come between us, individualizing us and disconnecting us from one another.

The Deception of Estrangement:

The belief that “all the differences we choose to see in others are obstacles” highlights the false idea of estrangement. By fixating on what distinguishes us, we create unnatural gaps, prioritizing our unique traits rather than recognizing our similarities.

Autonomy and Distinction:

By attaching ourselves to what differentiates us, we increase the risk of isolating ourselves and distancing ourselves from our sense of community. By categorizing others by their differences, we set up psychological and affective boundaries that restrict our ability to engage in genuine, empathetic connection.

The Existence of Connection in Variety:

Contrary to the deception of distance, the truth is that we are all part of an interrelated human fabric. Variety, far from being a limit, enhances our collective experience. Each diversity, whether of culture, ethnicity, or personal character, adds to the richness and complexity of the human being.

Celebrating Connection in Variety:

Instead of seeing differences as obstacles, we should celebrate the connectedness in variety. By accepting that we all experience life, despite our apparent differences, we can build bonds of understanding and mutual esteem.

The Importance of Empathy and Understanding:

Empathy and understanding are essential to transcend perceived obstacles. By striving to understand the experiences of others, beyond their particularities, we forge a deeper bond. Empathy enables us to look beyond labels and recognize our common essence.

Boosting the Link:

Instead of letting distinctions fragment us, we can choose to focus on our similarities. By recognizing that we all seek love, understanding, acceptance and personal fulfillment, regardless of our outward variations, we promote a more sincere bond and mutual understanding.

Conclusion:

In short, by confronting and questioning the clichés associated with disability, we contribute to a fairer, more open and respectful community. Through stories of overcoming disability, we are redefining narratives, generating change and creating a future where everyone, regardless of their abilities, is valued and celebrated for their individual contributions. This cultural change not only benefits the population with disabilities, but also enriches society as a whole by promoting diversity and the unique experiences that each person brings to the table.

We highlight the significance of celebrating plurality on the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. We invite readers to join in the initiative of self-discovery, to challenge clichés and to appreciate what is their own and what is not their own.

In the end, normality manifests itself as a dynamic and subjective pattern that transforms over time and across cultures and societies. Valuing diversity and acknowledging the variability of normal is vital to nurturing supportive and welcoming environments. By celebrating our differences, we contribute to a world where the uniqueness of each individual is honored and respected.

Variety represents more than just a quality of life; it stands as a powerful energy to innovate and solve. By recognizing and valuing diversity of all kinds, we build communities that are more cohesive, dynamic and ready to face whatever the future holds with an open and proactive mindset. Diversity is indeed a precious resource that stimulates progress and community cohesion.

Wake Up Platform’s invitation to know ourselves together with the Bertín Osborne Foundation is a call to unity. Through self-knowledge, we can come to feel that in reality we are all part of the same thing and that therefore, all the differences we see in others are barriers that we choose to put up artificially, since we are all part of the same thing.