Imperfect

I would prefer to never been seen without makeup.

I have been reading Brene Brown’s book titled The Gifts of Imperfection and each time I read a chapter or two I feel a little bit more insightful.

In the most recent chapter I read, she discusses her research on perfectionism.

Here is are some profound thoughts on perfectionism:

“Perfectionism is a self-destructive and addictive belief system that fuels this primary thought: If I look perfect, live perfectly, and do everything perfectly, I can avoid or minimize the painful feelings of shame, judgement and blame.

Perfectionism is self destructive because there is no such thing as perfect. Perfection is an unattainable goal.”

I read this as an outsider looking in on something I felt was not me. I can think of many people I know that are obviously perfectionists, but never thought I was one.

Then I realized that of course I have many levels of perfectionism, in whatever ways that means to me.

Here are some of Brene’s thoughts on how to cope and heal from perfectionism:

Self-kindness, common humanity (“I am not alone” type thing) and mindfulness about your habits of trying to be PERFECT.

Of course nothing is perfect and reading some of these thoughts was a great reminder this week.