Why Progress is better than Perfection

The idea of ‘Perfectionism’ is essentially seen as one great marker of ambition, fire and hustle. Perfectionists would see the world in black and white, making accomplishments with all energy or otherwise, count all else as failures. While many might agree that the best way to get work done is doing it flawlessly, but there is something quite problematic with this school of thought!

It is not just our abilities to reflect from the world and learn that perfectionism won’t allow, but it links itself to feelings of fear, anxiety, pressure and even easy burnouts. Not only is being perfect an extremely exhausting process, it is an easy catalyst to negative self-talking. At the core of it, perfectionists often hold themselves back because of their high levels of self-criticism that makes them believe how things aren’t ‘good enough’ until they are absolutely perfect. Studies confirm how people who chase perfection have the hardest time adapting to changes or being flexible in life. This inflexibility finds each expression when they cannot accept ideas that challenge theirs, find themselves worrying more in new situations and challenges or when having to think out of the box. Perfectionism, at its roots, settles as “fear to fail”- making a fixed mindset that doesn’t allow mistakes.

We miss out on so much of life’s great wonders when we use most of our attention and efforts in hours of doing work that otherwise can be done in far less time. Being creative and playful as well as having fun are indeed the best ways to get past stress and lead a life of enthusiasm. When one starts to see beyond perfectionism, that’s when the spirit of wonder for life begins. In recovering from perfectionism, the first step is therefore to focus on the fun of simply living and experiencing- to value the process it takes us to the result. That being said, I believe that the best tips for one to be able to get past perfectionism with fun, joy and ease include easy, wholesome habits to start with-

• Set realistic goals and expectations for yourself and for others.
• Allow yourself to push out of the comfort zone and try new things.
• Revisit your fears and question its roots. Self-introspect your way out.?
• Focus on your character and not your achievements.
• Replace negative self-talk and criticism with positive affirmations. Compliment yourself often.
• Allow mistakes, do things that you are terrible at!?