Why Striving for Perfection is Overrated (and Exhausting)
- Tim Thürnau
- Sep 10, 2024
- 3 min read
Hello friend,
Have you ever caught yourself trying to be perfect at something and feeling frustrated when you inevitably fall short? Whether it's crafting the ideal presentation, cooking the perfect meal, or even curating the perfect Instagram post, the quest for perfection can be exhausting. Since you're reading this newsletter, I have a hunch you know exactly what I mean.
The Myth of Perfection
We live in a world that often celebrates perfection. Social media, movies, and even advertisements show us polished, flawless versions of reality. It's easy to fall into the trap of thinking that perfection is not only attainable but also the standard we should all strive for.
But here's the catch: perfection is an illusion. It's a myth that can hold us back more than it propels us forward. The pursuit of perfection can lead to stress, anxiety, and a perpetual feeling of inadequacy. Often, perfectionism is rooted in the fear of failure—the belief that if we’re not perfect, we’re not good enough.
Embrace the Flaws
The Japanese have a beautiful concept called "wabi-sabi," which celebrates the beauty of imperfection. It’s about finding beauty in the flawed, the unfinished, and the imperfect. Imagine a cracked vase—rather than discarding it, the Japanese art of kintsugi involves filling the cracks with gold, highlighting and celebrating the imperfections.
The Power of Authenticity
Imperfections make us human. They make us relatable and real. Think about the people you admire most. Is it their perfection that draws you to them, or is it their authenticity, their ability to be real, and their willingness to show vulnerability? Chances are, it's the latter.
When we allow ourselves to be imperfect, we give others permission to do the same. We create a space where authenticity thrives, and genuine connections are formed.
Learning from Mistakes
Mistakes are an inevitable part of life. Rather than viewing them as failures, see them as opportunities for growth and learning. Each mistake is a stepping stone on the path to becoming better at whatever it is we’re striving for.
Remember Thomas Edison’s famous words about his attempts to create the light bulb: "I have not failed. I've just found 10,000 ways that won't work."
How to Wing It
Choose one area in your life where you often strive for perfection. This week, allow yourself to be imperfect in that area. Notice how it feels and what you learn from the experience. Share your insights with someone close to you.
Final Thoughts
Next time you catch yourself striving for perfection, take a step back. Breathe. Embrace your imperfections and see them as part of your unique charm. Life is not about being flawless; it’s about being authentic, learning, growing, and enjoying the journey. After all, it might sound like a cliché, but clichés often carry a lot of truth. So, let's celebrate our cracks filled with gold and embrace being perfectly imperfect.
Bridging Worlds
If you want to see me wing it, I do a podcast with cool people. You should subscribe on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. I had an inspiring conversation with Maud Vreeburg, an incredible teacher and artist. One of the most valuable lessons she shared was the power of creativity in education. Maud believes that art is not just about creating—it’s about teaching people to think differently and embrace their unique perspectives. If you’re looking for some inspiration on how to bring more creativity into your life or career, this is the episode for you. Tune in this week to hear more about Maud’s creative journey and how she uses art to impact others!
Keep winging it, and I’ll see you in the next one.
Big love,
Tim