PERFECTIONISM IS KILLING YOUR DREAM LIFE

Perfection kills everything

When I was 16, I used to have so many hobbies. I loved drawing, colouring, swimming, cycling, playing, dancing, singing, and the list went on. But now, I can't seem to dedicate myself to a single thing. I am afraid to take the first step because I worry I might ruin it; I want everything to be picture-perfect.

Perfectionism leads to the slow death of creativity. I suffer from this mindset where I feel I must give my absolute best, and it has to be perfect, whether I am painting my nails or working on a major project. But in reality, it's just my brain's way of procrastinating.

I don't want to fail, I don't want to lose, and I don't want to be embarrassed or judged for being bad at something. It's just my brain trying to protect me from hurt, keeping me trapped in my comfort zone. But while the comfort zone is safe, safe won't get me anywhere.

I can feel myself losing the creativity I once possessed- the very thing that made me feel alive. If you feel the same, then leave a "me too" down in the comment box.

What is perfectionism?

Perfectionism is a personality trait where one refuses to accept any standard short of perfection. Perfectionists view things rigidly black and white, procrastinate because they fear being imperfect and avoid sharing the workload because they believe "others will just mess it up."

How to overcome it?

The 80/20 Rule: One should understand that 80% of the value comes from 20% of the effort. You don't have to give 100% all the time.

Mistakes = Data: Make mistakes and fail faster. Analyze your setbacks objectively rather than personally, and ask yourself. "Okay, this didn't work. What should I do differently next time?"

Be Consistent: Showing up is enough.

Have Patience and Stay Positive: The goal might be far away, but hating yourself won't make you move any faster.

Set Deadlines and Reward System: Setting up small bite-sized tasks and deadlines builds confidence, and rewarding the brain gives a much-needed dopamine hit.

Remember, Rome wasn't built in a day. By letting go of perfection, you are healing your inner child