A recent cartoon by artist Becky Barnicoat has taken the internet by storm, highlighting the relatable practice of inventing names for our worst traits. The artwork, which has been shared widely on social media, shows a character creating a list of excuses for their flaws, from 'Beckshaming' to 'Barnicodrama'. This 'excusemaxxing' phenomenon, as Barnicoat calls it, has sparked a conversation about our tendency to justify our shortcomings and downplay our mistakes.
The cartoon has resonated with many people, who have taken to social media to share their own excuses and justifications. It's not just a funny observation, though - it's also a commentary on our culture's tendency to focus on appearances rather than actual behaviour. By making up excuses for our flaws, we're often avoiding accountability and responsibility.
Barnicoat's artwork has also raised questions about the impact of social media on our self-perception and our willingness to admit our flaws. In an age where we're constantly curating a perfect online image, it's no wonder that we're more likely to invent excuses for our shortcomings rather than facing the music.
So, what can we learn from this relatable cartoon? For one, it's a reminder that we're not alone in our tendency to make excuses. And secondly, it's a call to action to be more honest with ourselves and others about our flaws and shortcomings.