Perfect. Flawless. Filter. Top-of-the-line. Best. Unbeatable. Model.

We live in a world where these descriptors seem to be the goal and anything less is unacceptable.

“Model behavior.” “Best in class.” “Flawless complexion.” “Perfect performance.”

But are these expectations real? Do people really expect these from us? Or are they unrealistic expectations we place upon ourselves?

While not always a bad thing to work towards, the idealism of perfection often comes with a price. Low self-esteem, relationship problems, health issues, anxiety, and depression are common results from living a life of chronic perfectionism.

Saint Augustine,  renowned theologian, prolific writer, and skilled preacher of the fourth century once said, “This is the very perfection of man, to find out his own imperfections.“

 We are put on earth to learn how to become perfect, not to live life perfectly.

And as long as you’re trying the very best you can then what you do is good enough.

What if you were to put more emphasis on your progress instead? 

Record your progress so that when you begin to feel frustrated, you can actually see how far you’ve come. Notice the things you’ve become better at or stronger at or risen above. There is nothing wrong with giving yourself a little pat on the back for everyday achievements. You will find that there is so much satisfaction that comes from looking at how much you’ve improved! 

So patient with yourself. Set your goals and show yourself a little love and compassion.

We’ve found some episodes from the Our Turtle House App that will help you show yourself a little more love and compassion. Click on the picture below to open each episode directly in your Our Turtle House App.