perfectionism vs. pursuing excellence

​Is there really any difference between pursuing excellence and striving to be perfect? Michael J. Fox, well-known actor, husband, father, and Parkinson’s patient thinks so. “The only thing that separates any one of us from excellence is fear, and the opposite of fear is faith,” says Fox. “I am careful not to confuse excellence with perfection. Excellence I can reach for, perfection is God’s business.”

​​A grace-filled reality that has helped me in my ongoing  journey out of over-doing, over-committing and over-whelm is reminding myself often that there IS a difference between “trying too hard to make it all just right” and “partnering with God for excellence.”

• Perfectionism or trying-too-hard-to-make-it-all-just-right is a relentless mental/emotional chase for flawlessness. It’s impossible, works against me and can lead to procrastination or burnout.
• Excellence is enjoying quality in balance, works for me, and inspires me to intentional action.

• Perfectionism leads to self-talk with absolutes, generalizations and demands like: I must, I should, I have to, I never.
• Excellence encourages self-chat such as I want to, I can, and I will.

• Perfectionism is motivated by avoiding others’ negative opinions and disapproval.
• Excellence desires personal and spiritual growth and willingly accepts self-responsibility.

• Perfectionism fears “doing it wrong” and is only satisfied at victory or the finished product.
• Excellence enjoys satisfaction throughout the process. (TIP: When you’re facing a long intimidating task, try breaking it down into do-able daily increments. When you’ve reached your mini-goal, relax and celebrate. You’ll have less “I can’t wait until it’s over!” angst.)

It’s okay with God if you take it easy, breath deeply and enjoy yourself, others, and God’s beautiful gifts. You don’t have to work so hard to make all your relationships, body, emotions, faith and job perfect. Check out this verse. Luke 6:37: “Be easy on people; you’ll find life a lot easier.” The Message Devotional Bible. (And guess what?! You’re a “people”, so it applies to you, too!)

If you’re like me, you can sometimes be your own slave-driver. So this verse gives you (and me, too!) permission to be gentler with ourselves. I love that!

Which of these perfectionistic symptoms sounds a little too familiar to you? What one gentle self-care moment are you going to allow yourself this week?