Perfectionism is a tricky friend, isn’t it? I’ve been reflecting a lot on how my desire for everything to be just right has shaped my experiences, both positively and negatively. On one hand, striving for excellence can lead to amazing accomplishments; on the other, it can feel like I’m constantly climbing a mountain that never ends.
I remember when I first started feeling the weight of this. It was during my college years, where every assignment felt like it had to be a masterpiece. I would spend hours—no, days—revising a single paper, pouring over every word, every comma. And while I did well in school, I realized later that this relentless pursuit of perfection drained so much of my joy. I would miss out on enjoying life around me, buried under a mountain of self-imposed pressure.
What’s been eye-opening for me lately is how perfectionism often masquerades as a positive trait. People commend me for being detail-oriented or dedicated, but inside, I sometimes feel like I’m fighting against myself. It’s like having an overzealous coach who pushes you to the brink, insisting that anything less than perfect is unacceptable.
I’ve started to embrace the idea that “good enough” is actually, well, good enough! It’s a bit of a paradox, but I’ve found freedom in letting things be less than perfect. For instance, I’ve taken a step back in my work and allowed myself to submit projects that aren’t polished to an unrealistic shine. The world hasn’t ended. In fact, it’s been refreshing to see that imperfection can lead to more genuine connections and creativity.
What about you? Have you ever felt the grip of perfectionism, and how has it influenced your life? I’d love to hear your thoughts. How do you find a balance between striving for excellence and allowing yourself to be, well, human? It’s a conversation worth having!