The Girl Effect

Practicing Imperfectionism

Like so many people I know, I am a perfectionist. I usually deny I have this tendency and just see it as normal. But today while I was driving home I realized all of a sudden how much harder my life feels because of my perfectionism. It seems lately like every day is a minefield, and I rarely escape without (mostly self-imposed) battle scars. Oh, I wish I hadn't said that, I'll think. I wish I had said this instead. I wish I had made this choice instead of that one. I wish I were different. I mostly see life as an unfolding adventure, but lately this pattern is sucking the joy right out of me.

I thought about how much more joyful life would be if I could laugh at my mistakes instead of feel ashamed of them. Is it possible to become an IMperfectionist? Can I learn to delight in all of the ways I am not perfect, but still acceptable and even lovable? Can I be proud of the things I do badly? Can I share these things instead of hide them?

I wish I could start a club of accomplished, inspiring, awesome women who take credit for their successes even as they laugh at their failures. The club of Imperfectionists. What do you think? Are you with me?

What have YOU messed up today?