Since my early 20’s I have often been referred to as Marmite… 😳
It’s happened again quite recently.
Has it ever happened to you?
I know I'm not alone in this typecasting, as having had the privilege of speaking to ALOT of women veterans over the course of The V Word, it's been verified that it isn't unique to me... many of us in this cohort have had this comment or something of a similar ilk.
For those that may not know, Marmite is a popular British spread made from yeast extract. It is known for its unique and divisive taste – people tend to either love it or hate it. My Mum loves it… I hate it! Yak! Probably why in the past I’ve been offended by being referenced as it!
However the most recent branding got me thinking 🤔
What can we learn from this polarising spread?
Is it okay to be like Marmite?
(By now we all should know I love a bit of self reflection and reframing!)
After some deliberation I’ve come to the conclusion that it is absobloodylutely more than ok!
Why?
Well firstly, being like Marmite means that you have a strong and distinct personality. Which isn't necessarily a negative thing or mean that your an ass! It's just not considered the societal norm for a woman (however I do believe this is changing!). It can, however, bring numerous advantages to your personal and professional life. It helps you exude confidence, clarity, and assertiveness, making it easier to achieve your goals and establish healthy relationships. These admirable qualities allow you to make decisions that align with your values and priorities, leading to a more fulfilling life. This mindset also allows you to bounce back from setbacks and failures, learn from them, and grow. Who doesn’t want that?
Secondly, being like Marmite means that you are not afraid to take risks and try new things. In 1902 when they decided to put yeast extract on toast and eat the thing, it was definitely a risk but one that has undoubtedly paid off! Just like how Marmite is unique with bold flavour, being like Marmite means that you are willing to stand out, try, do and say things that others may not be comfortable with. This can lead to new experiences, opportunities, creative ideas, innovation and maybe... just maybe... even lead to positive impact and changes that you may not have otherwise had. #changemaker
Another reason it’s ok to be like Marmite means that you are most probably passionate and have a sense of humour and can laugh at yourself. People who love Marmite tend to be passionate about it, and those who hate it tend to be equally passionate in their dislike (I know I am!). Plus the fact that your compared to a random product that’s made from yeast extract is hilarious! I mean it’s hilarious that someone thought to pot up yeast extract and sell it as an edible product! Plus the fact that it’s divided a nation is also hilarious! Therefore if people are comparing you to Marmite, you're probably hilarious too and who doesn’t like to laugh! I personally find nothing funnier than my own jokes (I know, I know... but its true!), my own jokes are often about myself too… so you know clearly I have the ability to laugh at myself! Sincerely though, being able to laugh at yourself and not take things too seriously can help you navigate through life's ups and downs with grace and humility.
Lastly, being like Marmite means that you are authentic and true to yourself. You are not trying to be someone you're not in order to fit in or please others. Marmite activity seeks to NOT be anything but Marmite, it’s not Vegemite it’s Marmite!
Instead, you embrace your unique qualities and quirks, and you are proud of who you are. Authenticity looks good on everybody! It’s also brave, courageous, empowering and inspiring. In a society that often values conformity and fitting in, it can be difficult to embrace our unique qualities and quirks. We may feel pressure to be like everyone else in order to be accepted and loved (I have allowed myself to feel pressured for a long time and it's been a real struggle). But the truth is, we are all unique individuals with our own strengths and weaknesses, likes and dislikes, and personality traits. Like Marmite, own this!
It's more than ok to be like Marmite – to be different and stand out from the crowd. I mean all the greats are - David Bowie, Amelia Earhart, Emmeline Pankhurst, Elvis, Jocelyn Bell Burnell, Freddie Mercury, Rosa Parks, Leonardo Da Vinci, Lady GaGa, Anne Frank, Katherine Johnson, Grace Hopper, Jo Salter… (these are in no particular order and are just a few off the top of my head!)
Embracing our unique qualities leads to a more fulfilling life. It allows us to pursue our passions, try new things, and connect with others who share our interests and values.
Being like Marmite is not something to be ashamed of or offended by– it's something to be celebrated.
What do you think?
Do you love it or hate it?
So my response to this passive aggressive, back handed compliment is to say cheerfully and resolutely…
THANKS!
It’s taken me a long time to learn to accept myself, like myself even plus a lot of therapy and coaching too. It’s also taken me a long time to learn how to manage my high functioning anxiety that manifests as a result of my recently diagnosed ADHD and the fear of judgement from others…
So you know what my new mantra is?
Be More Marmite!
(Just don’t eat it, tastes like s#%t! Haha)
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