By Diane M. Drakes, The Vision Accelerator & Extreme Execution Coach
Happy March, as the days become longer and we roll into spring I wanted to discuss imperfections. The reality is no one is perfect and sometimes it’s easy to get stuck in seeking perfection in yourself or someone else. Instead I encourage you to strive for imperfect progression in becoming a better you. Everyone seems intent on ironing out imperfections, from using social media filters on selfies to consciously curating their lives. It appears that any level of imperfection is intolerable, and failure is a catastrophe. And for most people that is just setting yourself up for an unhappy, unfulfilled life as the mirage of perfection moves further and further away. It doesn’t have to be that way if we can begin to slowly work on embracing our imperfections.
Here are six good reasons to stop chasing that mirage and learn to embrace yourself as you are, imperfections and all.
- You stay focused on what’s important
Perfectionists tend to get derailed by the slightest mistake or little thing that doesn’t go right. They agonize over details; they get in their way. If you keep your eye on what you want to achieve, not some unattainable ideal, you’ll be much more likely to reach your goals. -
You’ll feel lighter and happier
Making peace with your imperfections relieves you instantly of a whole bunch of stress. Your Inner Critic can stand down and put its feet up, allowing you to relax and get on with your life, unburdened by not feeling good enough. Liberated from the need to be seen to be perfect, you’ll feel a lot happier and more content with who you are and what you’ve got. -
It’s easier to stay in the present
If you accept yourself for who you are, it becomes much easier to stay in the present and feel grateful for your life. Instead of anxiously chasing future goals or beating yourself up for past mistakes, you can be comfortable with the here and now, knowing you’re doing your best. -
You’ll be more compassionate
Once you’ve stopped judging yourself for every little thing, you’ll find it easier to be kinder and more compassionate towards other people. You’ll be more patient and not get irritated by quirks or habits where previously you might have reacted. Embracing imperfection makes you a lot less reactive all round. -
Your relationships will improve
Being a more accepting person will strengthen your relationships with family, friends, and colleagues. Accepting that imperfection and mistakes are a normal part of life means that you become a lot less ego-driven, and judgmental. You might even become a role model for others! -
You get a different perspective on life
Once you accept that flaws and mistakes are normal, and a part of the human experience, you will be more resilient and grounded. You become more aware of the bigger picture, and that life’s not all about you.
So, there you have it! As your Vision Coach, I want to provide you with information and inspiration to keep you encouraged to live the life of your dreams. It’s time to focus on yourself and loving all of your imperfections. Think about an area you want to focus on in the coming weeks, and begin to give yourself grace in accepting your imperfections. It’s spring time, and I bet you will start to feel much happier giving yourself that space. I’m encouraging you to stay inspired, consider joining my FREE group on Facebook—dreambigwithdiane or text the word Vision to 21000 and get FREE inspirational text messages once a week. Until we connect again smile, be happy and work at being an imperfect act in progress towards achieving your goals.
