I have long been trying to change my attitude regarding perfectionism. I’m beginning to understand how to deal with this issue and it always comes back to giving in and letting – which is difficult for someone who thinks they can manipulate all of the form around them (this includes human forms as well) so they can appear to be perfect in every way. Just thinking of an attitude like this makes me cringe, but yet I am as guilty as anyone when it comes to this kind of mindset.
I’ve been telling myself and those around me for years now, that trying to be perfect at everything is a ridiculous and unachievable goal – a goal that can find you depressed and anxious, and even out of control. Now there is a study on this very subject to refer to. Please read this article on the effects of perfectionism – on yourself and the friends and family you affect every day. There is nothing wrong with putting in a GREAT effort, but you cannot afford to get hung up in the results – in the outcome of the effort.
Whatever you are working hard at achieving, remember to enjoy the effort in the moment and don’t get caught up in the outcome from the effort. Don’t worry about what people think of you, and don’t get hung up on your status and station in life. Enjoy each and every second being aware of what your ego (mind) is doing in the dance.
Remember that you are NEVER going to be perfect, and the outcomes from your hard work are NEVER going to be perfect. They can be “pretty darn good”, and likely pretty darn AMAZING in the long run, so you can enjoy the dance of life your playful time working with form – that’s all good. Just give up on ever being perfect at anything. In the words of Stewie Griffin,
“Let it goooooo Louis!”