On Perfectionism
Action is What Fear Fears the Most
A few days ago, a writer friend invited me to participate in #NanoPoblano2024. The challenge is to post something each day of the month of November 2024. I’m so committed to taking my writing practice to the next level this year, that I decided to banish fear, by taking action. Action is what fear fears the most.
I accepted the invitation, knowing that the thing with the most power to derail my good intentions, is perfectionism. Anne Lamott wisely states, “Perfectionism is the voice of the oppressor.” I imagine that is meant to be spelled with a capital “O.” The first time I heard her speak those words, they resonated in my core. Growing up striving for perfection (knowing it is an impossible thing to achieve), among family and friends who did the same, I know first-hand the damage that perfectionism causes. It injures us in every aspect of living: physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. When Anne said that all of that comes from the Oppressor, I knew she spoke the truth. I’m so grateful to her for being courageous; for speaking the truth.
In accepting the invitation, I knew for sure that I would likely fall short. Any time I try to do anything perfectly, my mind is instantly overwhelmed and I shut down.
Why would I commit to such a challenge?
I’ve grown so much in the past year. I know now to give myself space, and grace. I know now that it is okay to take on a challenge, trip, fall, get back up, and travel along the path a little farther. I know that failing at being perfect…is not failing. Period.
What that means for me, in accepting the invitation to #NanoPoblano2024, is that I may not post every day. I may not post weekly. In fact, I almost forgot to post today - Day One! But I also know that the net result will be that I post MORE than I might otherwise.
Progress, in my process and in my practice, is the goal for this coming year. Taking this action feels like a great step toward my goal.
How does perfectionism show up in your creativity and in your life? What action can you take today to banish the fear of that oppressor, perfectionism?
Yay You! I’ll be cheering you on! Perfectionism is such a beast. My hope for you as you take up this challenge is that it breaks something in you WIDE OPEN. I felt a nudge in this same direction when Cheryl Strayed encouraged us to embrace our mediocrity. Can I? Not sure. But I’m going to try.
Jacque! Yay! I'm so glad you're here. However much you post is the right amount for you now. And gives us more than we would have had otherwise. I look forward to getting to know you better through your writing.