IDEAS 

Imperfectionism is the ultimate rebellion against the myth of perfection. It's about acknowledging that flaws and mistakes are not only natural but also beautiful. When we embrace imperfectionism, we let go of the pressure to conform to impossible standards and allow ourselves to be who we truly are. It's like taking a deep breath of fresh air and feeling free to be messy, quirky, and uniquely us. 

The truth is, perfection is subjective, and seeking it is a recipe for disappointment. Here are some examples that highlight this subjective nature: 

• A bowl without any cracks may be perfect to one person, but might seem without character to another. 
• A person who has an amazing sense of humor is perfect by someone, but is perceived as attention seeking and lacking depth by another.  
• A pristine jungle is seen as perfect by a nature loving person, and as an uncomfortable, insect filled nightmare by another. 

Embracing imperfectionism means focusing on the journey instead of the destination. We celebrate the learning, growth, and resilience that come from making mistakes and overcoming challenges. We also practice self-compassion, treating ourselves with kindness, and letting go of negative self-talk. After all, we're all doing the best we can with what we have.

One of the most inspiring examples of imperfectionism is Kintsugi, a Japanese art form that involves repairing broken pottery with gold or silver. The philosophy behind it is that the repaired object becomes even more beautiful and valuable than before because it tells a story of resilience and transformation. Imperfectionism is about seeing the beauty in the cracks, and the scars, and recognizing that they are part of our unique story.

So, let's embrace our imperfections, celebrate our flaws, and cultivate an appreciation for the beauty that surrounds us, imperfect as it may be. Remember that imperfectionism is not about giving up or settling for less. It's about valuing authenticity, resilience, and the beauty of imperfection. 

CASE STUDY 

Anne Marie's life was perfect, but it wasn't perfect for her. Her perfect house, perfect clothes, and perfect job were suffocating her. Despite her Instagram fame, she felt trapped in her castle of perfection. Then, one day, it all came crashing down on her, quite literally. She puked on the table just before giving a speech. Her colleagues looked on in shock. But, as odd as it may seem, she was relieved. Finally, she had broken the spell of perfection that had been haunting her for so long. 

Anne Marie took the opportunity to let her hair down and be wild. She screamed at the top of her lungs, "I am not perfect, let me be a human!" After this liberating experience, she ditched her perfect husband and set out to find a new path in life. She decided to run a cattle ranch, far from the suffocating city life. There, she discovered a new sense of fulfillment and freedom, surrounded by cows and nature. Anne Marie finally found what she had been searching for all along: a life where she could be herself, imperfections and all.

PRACTICES 

• Notice when you are trying to be perfect or make something perfect. Remind yourself that perfect doesn't exist and that imperfectionism is beautify. 
• When you make a mistake, celebrate yourself for trying. 
• Reframe failure as an opportunity to learn and grow.
• Set realistic goals that are achievable and attainable. 

RESOURCES 

BOOKS

• The Spirituality of Imperfection: Storytelling and the Search for Meaning by Ernest Kurtz and Katherine Ketcham 
• Embracing Imperfection: Moving From Self-Criticism to Self-Compassion by Sarah McCrum 
  
• The Gifts of Imperfection: Let Go of Who You Think You're Supposed to Be and Embrace Who You Are by Brené Brown 
  
• Imperfect: How to Embrace Your Flaws and Be Who You Are by Emily Freeman 
  
• The Joy of Imperfection: Embracing Your Flaws to Find Happiness by Elizabeth L. Scott 
  
• The Power of Imperfection: Let Go of Who You Think You're Supposed to Be and Embrace Who You Are by Dr. Brene Brown 
  
• The Imperfectionists: How Embracing Our Flaws Can Make Life More Beautiful by Tom Rachman 
  
• The Imperfectionists: A Story of Embracing Our Imperfections and Making Life Beautiful by Tom Rachman 
  
• Own Your Imperfections: Embrace Your Self-Worth and Discover the Joy of Being Imperfect by Amy Weintraub 
  
• Self-Acceptance: The Power of Embracing Your Flaws and Unlock