Perfectionism can be a difficult thing to overcome. But for your mental and physical health, it's something to understand and realize. The realization is that nothing will ever be perfect and you have to let that theory go.
When we focus on making things perfect, we are setting ourselves up to feel hurt. We build up such high expectations in our head and when the outcome is less than expected, we are let down.
Even if we do a really good job, we still end up “reducing whatever is positive, because it could be better. Never satisfied.” If our perfect outcome isn’t reached, then we aren’t happy and don’t feel it’s worth celebrating. It’s a sad thing. Likely, there are many positive things to celebrate, but because it isn’t perfect, it doesn’t seem to matter. This is a distorted way of thinking.
What does perfectionism do? It separates us. It sucks the enjoyment out of life, and may paralyze you and those around you with indecision.
Imagine never feeling satisfied with anything? You may begin to ask yourself why you bother doing anything at all. It takes away the joy in life. It makes you feel like even if you try your best, you will fall short. Not only will this affect you, but it will also begin to affect those closest around you.
So what can you do? Well, one solution to combat perfectionism is to “learn to recognize positive motion and celebrate it. Resolve the insecurities that lead you to believe nothing is good enough. Team up with your allies and work together.”
It's important to realize that nothing in life is perfect, so you can let that unrealistic expectation go. As long as you are trying your best, you’re in the right direction! Sometimes, you may have to take a good hard look at yourself. It’s okay to be flawed. No one is perfect. Don’t be too hard on yourself! Observe how you are thinking. Are you having distorted thoughts often? How can you change that in yourself? Get help and learn tools. Change your thought process and perspective.
If you feel you need help, reach out! Work together with people. As they say, “teamwork makes the dream work”! It’s okay to ask for help. Whether you need help on a project or help with your thinking and thought process. Consult the help of a friend, therapist or health professional if needed.
Don’t let perfectionism get in your way! It can be paralyzing at first, but you don’t have to let that way of thinking control you. You have the power to take life into your own hands. And that includes your thoughts as well! Don’t live habitually, live intentionally! And always remember, you are doing better than you think you are, be confident and give yourself credit! We are always here to remind you of this and support you!
Much love and light,
Sarah Del Rey