Aspire Magazine: Inspiration for a Woman's Soul.(TM) Oct/Nov 2018 Aspire Mag Full Issue | Page 24

1 . Give yourself and others permission not to be perfect .
24 www . AspireMAG . net | October / November 2018

“ Understanding the difference between healthy striving and perfectionism is critical to laying down the shield and picking up your life . Research shows that perfectionism hampers success . In fact , it ’ s often the path to depression , anxiety , addiction , and life paralysis .”

– BRENE BROWN
creativity , authenticity , evolution , and growth . Perfectionism robs us of our value and worth and focuses our attention on the negative rather than on our potential . And our unrealistic expectations impact our relationships not only with ourselves , but with others , which fuels our guilt and shame . Perfectionism feeds a scarcity mindset and undermines our ability to receive blessings and see the infinite possibilities available to us .
I love Brene Brown ’ s distinction that “ Understanding the difference between healthy striving and perfectionism is critical to laying down the shield and picking up your life . Research shows that perfectionism hampers success . In fact , it ’ s often the path to depression , anxiety , addiction , and life paralysis .”
What if instead of holding ourselves to unrealistic and unattainable expectations , we give up on being perfect and choose to cultivate nurturing expectations of ourselves .
This empowering and liberating choice will support us in cultivating a reserve of compassion , self-love , gratitude , perspective , and energy so that we can show up authentically , courageously , and fully engaged in our lives .

Here are 5 steps to giving up perfectionism in order to thrive :

1 . Give yourself and others permission not to be perfect .

This is an important first step and intention in the healing process . When we declare that we do not expect ourselves or others to be perfect , we create healthier and more encouraging environments where learning and growth are valued and appreciated .

24 www . AspireMAG . net | October / November 2018