Imperfection ? I’m Perfection

Oscillation between these two mind states - the state of?Imperfection on one hand is filled with doubt, fear, pity parties, comparison, incompleteness - and we strive to fill the gaps, with -?positivity, disciplined effort, complexity, change, commitment, success, celebration, failures, resilience, despondency, learning - through these experiences life comes full circle when we slow down and pause to realize that the answers lies right within the “imperfection gaps” - I’m perfection - and at that end of the spectrum is acceptance, simplicity, silence, harmony, confidence, purpose, meaning, joy and wholeness.

In the pursuit of perfection we fail to see the apparent imperfections within it :

• The perfect obedient, disciplined, routine adhering, non demanding meticulous child possibly grows into an imperfect adult with difficulty in challenging authority, speaking up courageously, or handling uncertainty.?
• In a perfect student used to only academic success brews an imperfect social navigator
• The perfect career path with amazing growth, recognition and compensation could have the cost of burnout, overwork & stress baked in.
• A perfect homemaker applauded by all may harbor regret of financial dependence?
• A picture perfect relationship could possibly be paying the price of conflict avoidance and personal compromise?
• A successful entrepreneur making profits for investors & shareholders could feel the pinch of being an imperfect friend/family member
• A perfect product could be inflexible and un-customisable for different customer needs

When blind to or in denial of imperfection, “I’m Perfection” shows up as defensiveness, anger, overconfidence, pride, power, arrogance or narcissism.

How do we recognize our true perfection? Consciously slowing down, building awareness and letting go of assumptions help untangling the deeply ingrained auto responses.

How can we know we are realizing our inherent perfection? Some indicators include -?

• Self image: Self deprecation talks cease, we no longer put ourselves - looks, intellect, abilities, success, status - down in comparison and are able to accept praise with grace.?
• Compassionate interactions : One is able to relate to the other sans the pressure of role expectations.
• Listening in the now : happens fully without assumptions, agenda or baggage. Prejudices and judgements make way for authentic response.
• Generosity in action : decisions & actions are undertaken with openness and joy in the process and without greed/apprehension of outcome
• Gratitude & humility : every experience is viewed as opportunity to contribute and no task is low or high in the value chain
• Taking self lightly : every resistance, slight, slides off as ego doesn't get amped up. Humor makes a welcome presence
• Love & Inclusion : at ease with making space for other POVs, preferences other than our own, without compromising on what matters to us.?

The notion of perfection or imperfection is most often a social benchmark and once we realize everything/one including our self is a perfect mess, the oscillating dilemmas are put to rest. Love to hear your thoughts and experiences..