In college, a few of my friends attended a church that we all regarded as “highly spiritual.” For years, the church had a particular slogan, “Perfection is Possible.” They had stickers, decals, and posters with this slogan, and they carried them everywhere. Back then, I always wondered if perfection was genuinely possible or realistic. I admit that I was intimidated by their stickers and the slogan. And thirty years later, I am still thinking about that slogan. So, what is perfection? Should we pursue perfection? And are there downsides to pursuing perfection?

What is perfection?

Perfection – the condition, state, or quality of being free or as free as possible from all flaws or defects. So, can anyone of us be free from all flaws or defects? I would like to know that woman with no physical or character flaws. So far, I am yet to meet her. Even after spending thousands of hours in fitness over the past 20 years, I know I will never have the “perfect body.” So, instead of focusing on my flaws, I celebrate my progress over the years.

Is perfection possible?

“Perfection is not attainable, but if we chase perfection, we can catch excellence.” – Vince Lombardi.

Striving for perfection can put undue pressure on us as women and mothers. Indeed, it adds another layer of stress to our already stressed lives. Furthermore, when we fail to reach perfection, we can get discouraged. The more you try to be perfect, the harder it will be for you to deal with a situation in which you are not entirely successful.

I agree that perfection is not attainable because perfection is subjective and has no limit. Moreover, what I consider perfect may be imperfect to you, and vice versa.

Now, excellence, I agree with. Excellence means very good, great, or high quality. It is okay to want to be very good or great at something. It allows you to push yourself to your highest potential. In fact, it is great to strive for excellence to the best of your ability.

In which areas do we often feel imperfect as women?

As women, mothers, wives, girlfriends, daughters, etc., we try to be perfect in many areas, putting unnecessary pressure on ourselves. Here are some common areas where we strive to be perfect.

1) Our body image

Not only do we want to lose weight, but we also want to have the perfect body proportions. One study showed that only 12 percent of women reported being satisfied with their body size. So over 8 out of 10 of us are dissatisfied with our looks.

2) Our parenting skills

Research shows that over half of women say it matters a lot to them that their friends see them as good parents. Also, 92% of women say it matters a lot to them that their spouse sees them as a good parent. Parenting can be tasking as we navigate the various seasons in our children’s lives and ours. For more, check out ” The Journey of Motherhood.”

3) Our achievements

We don’t see ourselves as enough until we reach the next level in our careers, businesses, or profession. We always aim for more without taking the time to enjoy our current achievements or position.

4) Our social status

We want to show others that we have wealth, class, and influence. Sometimes, this manifests as buying expensive items we do not need so that people can respect us.

What are the downsides of trying to be perfect?

Trying to be perfect in everything means that you hold yourself to impossibly high standards. Unfortunately, this can lead to:

1) Depression

2) Anxiety

3) Self-harm

4) Hopelessness

5) Poor quality of life

6) Difficult personal relationships

7) Struggling at work or school

How to deal with your imperfections

1) Embrace your imperfections and recognize that you are enough. Realize that you, like everyone else, are imperfect.

2) Find what you are good at and focus on it. No matter what we see on social media, everyone is struggling with something! But here is the good news. Everyone is good at something. The more you focus on your strengths, the less important your imperfections become.

3) Create realistic goals for yourself and strive for excellence instead of perfection.

4) Surround yourself with positive friends and not ones who constantly point out your flaws.

Final thoughts

Recently, a friend shared this post on social media “Someone will always be prettier. Someone will always be smarter. Someone will always be younger. But they will never be you.”

The truth is I have something you don’t have and can never have, which is my uniqueness. Likewise, you are unique, and I cannot become you, no matter how hard I try.

So, as we celebrate all Mothers today, I want to know your thoughts. Do you think perfection is possible? In which areas have you attained perfection? And in which areas do you feel imperfect?

Well, 30 years later, I still think my friend’s church could have used a different, less intimidating slogan. For example, “Excellence is Possible.”

Lastly, we are all a working progress. Instead of trying to be perfect, be your best today and celebrate the opportunity for future growth and excellence.

As a matter of fact, you don’t need to be perfect in any area. Because perfection means there is no longer an opportunity for growth in that area. And, as I mentioned earlier, there is no limit to perfection.

Finally, remember, as Bruno Mars sang: if perfect’s what you’re searchin’ for, then just stay the same. ‘Cause you are amazing, just the way you are!

Happy Mother’s Day!

Please feel free to comment below, and also feel free to share this article.

Yours in health and fitness,

Doctor Abi.