Perfectly Imperfect: Being Gentle on Ourselves When We Stray From Our Goals
In the second part of our ongoing series on embracing imperfection, we delve into a common struggle that many individuals face: what to do when we drift away from core habits, values, and goals in the relentless pursuit of perfection. Katie, my co-host, and I know firsthand the challenges associated with this tendency to be strivers and perfectionists, and we believe that addressing it is a pivotal step towards self-acceptance and stress resilience.
It's remarkably easy to fall into the trap of aiming for perfection by cramming our schedules with countless to-do’s to achieve what we think we want for our wellness. We can fall prey to a belief that the more we “do,” the closer - and faster - we will reach the goal.' However, in this process, we often forget to allocate time for self-care, introspection, and merely being present. This can lead to exhaustion, burnout, and an unsettling disconnection from our core selves.
Yet, it's never too late to heal from this pattern. The first crucial step is acknowledging that it's absolutely fine to be 'imperfect.' It's normal to have days when we struggle to manage our calendars or when we need to pause and catch our breath. Healing from perfectionism and the allure of over-scheduling involves recognizing that our self-worth is not solely determined by our productivity or how 'perfect' we appear to be. It's about forgiving ourselves for the times we veer off the path of the habits that lead to our wellness.
As we begin this journey, we can gradually reintegrate those essential habits into our lives. We can start by setting realistic goals, allowing ourselves the grace to rest when needed, and reassessing our priorities. Surrounding ourselves with a supportive community that understands our journey can also be incredibly beneficial. Sharing our experiences, learning from one another, and growing together form a vital part of this process.
In essence, this journey is one of self-discovery and self-compassion. It's about discovering contentment with the knowledge that we don't need to be 'perfect.' Embracing our 'imperfections' leads us to a more wellness-centered life. We're excited to take this journey together, as we collectively strive to find peace and authenticity in the beautifully 'imperfect' individuals that we all are. Thank you for joining us for the second part of our series, and stay tuned for more insights, tips, and support on this journey toward leaning into our most authentic and compassionate selves.
If this has you feeling inspired to practice self-compassion and increase your confidence, you will find the like-minded community you need in my Small Group Concierge Wellness cohorts. Life is too short to demand “perfection” in your life – perfectionism easily steals strength from our lives and sends our confidence, especially in midlife, plummeting. With Small Group Concierge Wellness, you have the opportunity to heal from mindsets that no longer serve you and to create an abundant, joyful, and vibrant life.
RELATED: Perfectly Imperfect: A Candid Conversation with Adrien Cotton and Katie McDonald Part I
