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Being A Perfectionist

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable - if anything is excellent or praiseworthy - think about such things.
Philippians 4:8

Have you ever met a perfectionist who was truly happy? Probably not! Whenever things must always be a certain way, life can make you pretty miserable because life constantly changes. Instead of being grateful for their blessings, perfectionists tend to focus on what is wrong, and their need to fix it. It could be a disorganized wardrobe, a dent in their car, a job they did that was less than perfect, or a few pounds in weight they would like to lose.

Or it could be someone else's imperfections: the way they look, the way they behave, or the way they live their lives. The very fact that perfectionists constantly dwell on flaws makes it impossible for them to be grateful; for gratitude is at the core of happiness!

This has nothing to do with striving to do better; it has to do with fixating on what is wrong! Sure there is always a better way to do something, but that does not mean you cannot enjoy life the way it is at the moment. 'What is the cure for perfectionism?' you ask. Catch yourself before you fall into the habit of insisting that things should be different than the way they are. Gently remind yourself that life is okay, and that, in the absence of your judgement, everything will work out just fine. Why? Because God is in control! Start dealing with your need for perfection by developing an attitude of trust and gratitude. When you do, you will begin to discover how wonderful life really is.

Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to trust your way of seeing things and accepting things as they are, knowing that in the midst of imperfection your grace shines through! In Jesus’ Name, Amen