How To Heal: Untangle Excellence From Perfectionism

We’ve all heard it: “Strive for excellence, not perfection.” But what does that actually look like in real life?

Perfectionism is a sneaky imitator.

It can sound like:

• “I just want to get it right.”

• “I’ll start when I’m more prepared.”

• “It has to be the best or it’s not worth doing.”

But perfectionism isn’t about high standards. It’s actually about fear. Fear of being seen. Fear of getting it wrong. Fear of not being enough.

Excellence, on the other hand, is rooted in care. In craft. In presence. It says: “This matters to me, and I’m showing up for it as best I can, flaws and all.”

• Excellence is rooted in devotion; perfectionism in fear.

• Excellence asks, “Did I give care?”

• Perfectionism asks, “Did I please everyone?”

• Healing comes when we value presence over polish.

 Reflection questions:

• Where have I been confusing excellence with perfection?

• What would it look like to honor effort over outcome?

• What am I afraid will happen if I let something be “good enough”?

 Letting go of perfectionism doesn’t mean you’re lowering your standards. It means you’re raising your capacity for peace.

That’s the kind of excellence that lasts.

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