Perfectionism – The Scariest Monster of All
Perfectionism has its place in the world, but if we operated from this mindset all the time nothing would ever get done – especially this blog post. There’s a precious factor for many artists that can suck the art and joy out of any project. Our work is our child, after all. But have you ever been around perfectionist parents? They’re so busy sanitizing and organizing that it’s hard for their kids to be kids. Much like over-editing – in an effort to make things perfect, the passion and spirit of a project can get watered down.
If you have a tendency to fall down the perfection rabbit hole, here are some reminders on why to knock it off ASAP. *For the hardcore perfectionists, there is one purposeful typo below. Happy hunting!
An Arrogant Excuse
“I’m a perfectionist,” we say in job interviews, first dates, and accountability groups. This statement tells others, “I have a higher standard. I have excellent taste.” That works fine when you’re picking out the perfect grapefruit, but falls short when it’s preventing you from writing that book.
Think of all the things you’ve accomplished in your life. Have any of them been perfect? Probably not, but they were complete. Brought to life. Experienced. Everything else is just a good idea buried in fear.
If you wait for perfect conditions, you will never get anything done.”
–Ecclesiastes 11:4
The Death of Art
Endless categories tempt perfection; Body fat percentage, speed of execution, proper use of a semicolon… Yet some of the most amazing moments happen organically when there’s no fear around creation.
Would you stop Meryl Streep during Sophie’s Choice to smooth her hair and wipe her tears? If she stumbled on a word through her captivating performance, would you demand a retake? Great film directors keep the camera rolling after a scene, just in case.
As authors, we must apply this to our work and welcome organic opportunities. It’s our job to present slices of life and life is anything but perfect. What can feel different or off the cuff? How can you break the rules? Things that fall between the cracks are thrilling in a world of crossed t’s and dotted i’s.
Yes we must study our craft, but when inspiration strikes it must come in its raw form. Technique and skill are learned, creative juice is a blessing and shouldn’t be slapped with a ruler. Ever.
Letting our hair down presents such a captivating freedom that no one would dare brush it into place. Enjoy the snippets and flashes that the universe throws your way. Instead of screaming, “It’s not enough! Now I have to make this tidy.” Say, “thank you for the fun toy you gave me.” Then see if you can attract others to play with you.
“It is impossible to live without failing at something, unless you live so cautiously that you might as well not have lived at all – in which case, you fail by default.”
–J.K. Rowling.
A Growth Killer
As adults, we’ve become quite comfy being good at things. Driving? No problem. Emailing? Nailed it. Doing things we already know how to do makes us feel smart (and possibly better than people who can’t do it as well).
The unfortunate truth is that so many people stop growing in adulthood. They’ve become comfortable feeling comfortable and have forgotten what it’s like to be bad at something. And because we’re our own parents, we protect ourselves from danger– and for many that means feeling vulnerable.
As children, we stumble all over the place, celebrating small wins, like counting to five and not dropping a glass full of juice. If we trip today – literally or figuratively – shame sweeps in like a bandit, robbing us of our joy.
By shaking off perfectionism and trying new things we allow ourselves to truly live. Risks… Challenges… They shape who we are. To eliminate them is a slow and sneaky death of the spirit.
“To be a learner, you’ve got to be willing to be a fool.”
–George Leonard
Your Brain on Perfectionism
Thanks to neuroplasticity, our brain has the literal ability to grow, change and rewire from new stimulations. When perfection prevents us from trying new things, our brain stops working for us. Repeating the same things day after day bores our brain into autopilot. “Use it or lose it” couldn’t be truer. Your brain deserves to function at an optimal level.
“Life is a moving, breathing thing. We have to be willing to constantly evolve. Perfection is constant transformation.”
–Nia Peeples
Food For Thought
Give perfectionism shade and move toward your artistic urges like the creative junkie you are. The best things in life don’t come to those who wait, they come to those who act. And when you do that, you’ll quite possibly see through all the imperfection and discover something absolutely purfect.
David L. Hancock, Founder
Morgan James Publishing
