Is Perfection Real?

Is there a perfect life? A perfect job? Perfection doesn't exist. How can you even define it? Some might say striving for perfection is just a form of greed. Social media can make us feel depressed as we see these "perfect" lives online.

A few years ago, I attended a dinner at a friend's house. They were wealthy and well-known. We had fun, danced, and took countless happy pictures. But as soon as the guests left, we gathered in the kitchen and heard loud noises. It turned out the family was having a huge fight about their finances. Despite their polished social media presence, their financial situation was a mess.

This experience reminded me that not everything that looks golden is actually gold. Even the wealthy have problems. Death touches us all, regardless of our financial status.

Why share this story? To illustrate that appearances can be deceiving. I often wonder if there is a perfect job. Whether you're a freelancer, self-employed, an employee, or an entrepreneur, every role has its challenges.

When under stress, the human brain seeks excuses to avoid solving current problems. For instance, if you're unhappy at your job, you might think another job or more money would solve everything. But this doesn't address your real issue.

It's true that sometimes the grass seems greener on the other side. What's important is to assess your current situation calmly and rationally. After talking to many people across different industries, I've learned that everyone faces challenges, even if they don't show it. There is no perfection.

We choose our suffering, picking the least painful option. Every choice has consequences. The key is to choose the ones you can handle.

These are a few things I do to keep my self grounded. Most of the times it is us that we create high expectations and then we get disappointed. Hence, I always say that self awareness is the key to happiness.

Keeping Our Expectations Real

• Practice Gratitude: Focus on and appreciate what you have rather than what you lack. Regularly remind yourself of your achievements and the positive aspects of your life.
• Set Achievable Goals: Break down larger goals into smaller, manageable tasks. Ensure your goals are realistic and attainable, avoiding setting yourself up for disappointment.
• Avoid Comparisons: Remember that everyone has unique challenges and circumstances. Comparing yourself to others, especially through the lens of social media, can create unrealistic expectations. Focus on your own journey and progress.
• Achievement Board: The Achievement Board is a method I created years ago when I lived and worked in New York, a place known for its toxic and competitive business environment. I needed something to keep me motivated, so I developed this board where I wrote down all my achievements so far. It helped me feel proud of myself again.
• Finding Joy and Resilience: Do things that make you feel good about yourself and your life. Personally, I practice yoga and meditation, but I especially enjoy walks in nature. Even a stroll in a small local park can be revitalizing. In the summer, I walk barefoot, reconnecting with all my senses: seeing, feeling, smelling, touching, and breathing. It reminds me that I am alive.

I have faced situations that would have overwhelmed most people, so I understand what it's like to go through hell. But if you don't help yourself, no one else can do it for you. Even if you're currently struggling, find ways to bring some happiness into your life to keep moving forward.

We must keep going no matter what. Movement is the best medicine for stagnation.

Thank you and life is good. Keep smiling

Nadia