Have you ever noticed our world is built around creating THE BEST child we possibly can?
We have books like What To Expect When You’re Expecting that gives us a step by step play of what to expect. You can continue using the books to know exactly what you’re one, two, and three year olds should be able to accomplish.
Then the race begins.
We put them into head start programs so they can excel. Gifted and talented - yes, please. We’re a nation filled with overachievers. We have the need and desire to push our kids in all kinds of ways - sports, STEM, and the arts.
By the time they reach high school, anxiety and stress have set in. No matter what they do, they feel there’s always room to be a little better. Perfection is the goal.
Yet as adults, we know what just isn’t so. Life isn’t built around perfect SAT scores or perfection on tests.
Chasing perfection never wins. It simply leads to a stressed out life. What if we embraced imperfection instead?
Imperfection allows you to take more risks
If you strive for perfection, you hold back from doing things that can prove you wrong. If you let go of perfection, you’ll be more willing to try things that push you out of your comfort zone.
Imperfection allows you to accept you
There is no such thing as a “perfect” life, body, job, lifestyle, or relationship. That’s why we’re often shocked when people we considered “perfect” in some manner to stumble and fall. Embracing your imperfections allows you to embrace everything that makes you, you.
Imperfection helps build strength
When you’re not afraid to try new things, you can grow. When you’re not afraid to show your vulnerabilities, you have a greater chance of turning them into strengths.
Imperfection builds a happy life
When you chase perfection, it’s one of the most exhausting paths you can take. If you always have to be perfect with those around you, you’ll wear yourself down. You’ll never be able to just show up to have fun.
Do you see yourself in any of this? The easiest way to change your kids’ approach to life is to first change your own. Embrace your own imperfections. Do things simply to have fun. Make silly mistakes and laugh at the outcome.