How well do you tolerate imperfection? Perfectionism and recklessness are opposing teams on the same playing field. Many people confuse a lack of imperfection as an optimal goal in life, but sadly this is so far from the truth. It’s the broken parts of people and life that lead to some of the most beautiful moments. Although we need to be cautious that we don’t become cavalier about risk taking, many successful people will tell you that taking risks and dealing with failure is essential.
I know friends who struggle with imperfection. They are slaves to their need to wash their hands or keep their homes at very high levels of cleanliness. Some have theorized that the emphasis on antibacterial products in America has lead, in part, to the rise in environmental allergies. What is your perspective? Have you considered the impact of trying to achieve perfection in your own life?
Are you equipped to handle an incomplete success or victory? What if you only get 80% of your dream?
Some of the most successful people never fully realized their original dreams and goals. They adapted them along the way and found other new ways to achieve success. Are you flexible with your vision of success? Write down your ultimate personal or professional goal. Then consider all the incremental points along the way that will occur before you reach your ultimate goal. There may be some, that would say to settle for anything less would be failure, but that is just not true. Many times, this belief is what keeps some people from trying in the first place.
This blog is part of a series from the book Discover Your Best Life by Mike Hintz. His personal, professional, and spiritual growth tools are also featured in Northlink Retreats. If this topic resonates with you consider reading the book or attending one of the upcoming retreats.