Perfecionism does not exist

by Zahara Matovu
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This isn't easy for me to admit, but I was convinced that I was a perfectionist for quite a long time. I used to identify myself as a 'perfectionist' until one time I was listening to a podcast where the host said that 'perfectionism' does not exist.

He went into details and I saw flashbacks in my mind of all the times I introduced myself as a perctionist. I had been living a lie that I believed to be true and had identified with.

No one is perfect on this earth, we all know it, and we say it very many times, nevertheless, many people still see perfectionism as a personality trait and identify with it.

I am here today to let you know that perfectionism does NOT exist. You are not a perfectionist, you are just orderly and neat.

Perfectionism is an illusion, and an illusion can't become real. So, how are you ever going to be perfect or create the perfect art piece, perfect speech, perfect presentation, perfect gift or be a perfect parent and partner?

In my opinion, perfectionism is often used as a protective mechanism from being hurt. For example, an artist is putting off exhibiting his art, because "it's not perfect yet", but in actual sense, he's afraid of being hurt by the judgements and comments that will be made once he puts his art work out to the public.

Perfectionism is in the imperfect, because think about it, if something were to be perfect, where would the joy be in that?

I never want to tell anyone that I am a perfectionist anymore, because I changed my mindset about this and I found myself more carefree and less stressed trying to make everything perfect and waiting for the perfect time.