Perfectly Fine

After all this time, after all the practice I’ve had perfecting what should by now be perfected, I still don’t do it—anything—perfectly right. I am a perfect example of imperfection, and I’m perfectly fine with that.

Perfection is an overrated and impossible goal—in fact, the act of chasing perfection makes perfect imperfect. Perfectionism sucks all the fun out of giving life a whirl.

Perfectionism is not a happy road to follow; it is harsh and demanding, full of judgment and fear.

Excellence is my goal. I am on a journey, and I plan to enjoy myself, even laugh at myself—my quirks and silly habits, my screw ups and flubs—along the way. Adaptable effort, patience, and reasonable expectations are my mainstays—self-acceptance and a love of this glorious mess that I am are key.

After all this time, after all the practice you’ve had perfecting what should by now be perfected, you still don’t do it—anything—perfectly right either. You—my friends and family—are also perfect examples of imperfection, and I’m perfectly fine with the glorious messes that you are, too.

Embrace the glorious mess that you are.

~Elizabeth Gilbert