'Good enough' or 'perfect'? What is better?

We've all chased that elusive 'perfect' version of ourselves, haven't we? A sudden inspiration followed by that surge of motivation, the promise of a flawless new habit - no room for errors!

But life, as it does many a time, throws curveballs, and more often than not, our 'perfect' plan crumbles.

The elusive chase for the 'perfect' version of self.

Take my coaching client, the epitome of the 'model patient,' for her physician. Her sugar levels were perfectly managed – food, exercise, sleep, all in check. Each spike, each deviation, the rigid discipline applied to her diet and exercise used almost as a weapon wielded against her 'imperfections'. Three months of flawless adherence to the 'perfect routine', then… poof! The 'perfect' routine vanished, replaced by stress and overwhelm. Sounds familiar?

Or the yoga teacher, a beacon of 'perfect' dedication, succumbing to burnout. And the young woman, aiming for two hours of 'perfect' exercise daily, only to abandon it after five days.

We fall into the 'all-or-nothing' trap, striving for an unattainable ideal. We set unrealistic goals, like those two-hour workouts, and when we can't maintain them, we give up entirely.

Why does Perfection fail us?

These vibrant cards remind us that true beauty lies in imperfection.

• The False Sense of Security: We chase perfection, believing it grants us total control, but this is a dangerous illusion. We convince ourselves that we can exert complete control over our circumstances and habits, ignoring the inherent unpredictability of life.

• The Emotional Strain: The relentless drive for perfection creates an unsustainable level of pressure, leading to emotional and physical burnout.

• The Restrictive Nature of Rigidity: Perfectionism demands an unyielding adherence to routine, making it impossible to adapt to the natural flow of life's changes.

• The Unseen Drivers: Deep-seated anxieties, fears, sense of shame and a need for control often drive our perfectionism, leading to self-sabotage when ignored.

The Power of "Good Enough": Building

Realistic Habits for a Happier You :

The power of perseverance and taking life one step at a time.

• Start Small, Stay Steady : Start with just 15 minutes. Consistent small efforts outweigh sporadic bursts of "perfect" action.

• Roll with the Punches: Life throws curveballs. Learn to adapt and keep moving forward. Small steps help you do just that.

• Tune In to Your Body: Prioritise rest and listen to your needs, not your inner critic's constant demands.

• Enjoy the Process: "Good enough" should feel enjoyable as it is sustainable.

• Prepare for Challenges: Anticipate roadblocks and plan for setbacks. Create strategies to get back on track.

  
  

'Good enough' isn't settling; it's being kind to yourself.

It's about building sustainable habits that fit into your real, imperfect life.

It's about showing up, even when you're not 'perfect,' and knowing that that's more than enough.