Perfectionism – It’s Just A Word

Absolutely, perfectionism can be a real joy-killer, and I'm here to remind you that it's perfectly okay not to be perfect! In fact, nobody is, and that's the beauty of being human. Perfectionism, as the dictionary defines it, is this constant pursuit of an unattainable standard of flawlessness. Now, don't get me wrong, it's fantastic to have high standards and to give your best in everything you do. But the trouble with chasing perfection is that it's like trying to catch a rainbow—always there, but just out of reach. Every time you think you're getting close, the goalposts move, and you're back to square one. Ask yourself, what exactly is this elusive standard of perfection based on? Is it your own idea of what's ideal? Someone else's opinion? Or maybe it's something you've seen on TV or in a magazine, which is essentially just another person's perspective. Here's the thing: Your version of perfect might not align with someone else's, and that's perfectly fine. The moment you start comparing your vision of perfection to what you think others expect from you, you're setting yourself up for a constant worry about how you're perceived. Striving for perfection can zap the fun out of the journey and make you forget what it's like to have a good time. Have you ever hesitated to hop on a thrilling amusement park ride because you were worried about your hair getting messed up? Or perhaps you've been on a perpetual diet, thinking that losing a few more pounds would make you "perfect." The truth is, aiming for perfection can leave you perpetually dissatisfied with who you are and what you have. It can also lead to procrastination because you're too busy obsessing over making everything perfect that you never actually finish anything. Now, imagine a world where things aren't 100% perfect—how does that feel to you? What if making mistakes and learning from them is an essential part of growth? Some of life's most valuable lessons and personal growth come from taking a tumble, dusting yourself off, and using that newfound wisdom to soar even higher. So, here's a challenge for you: Let's call it the "No Perfection Challenge." Try doing something "bad" a couple of times a week. Not "bad" in a criminal sense, of course, but something cheeky or mischievous. Maybe it's as simple as deleting incoming emails without reading them or pressing all the floor buttons in the elevator as you exit. Whatever your version of "bad" is, make it fun, step out of your comfort zone of perfectionism, and savour the liberating feeling of embracing your beautifully imperfect self. After all, life's too short to be anything but authentically you! 🌟😊