This is SO me!

I read an article recently that made me think to myself, "they're talking about me!" I've known for a long time that I have this paralyzing problem. I'm glad to know there's a light at the end of the tunnel. I just hope I can find that tunnel...

I've changed some things to make this information apply to myself, but here's most of the original article:

I've never thought of myself as a perfectionist. One would only have to peer into my office to understand why.

My "spaces" have the appearance of chaos, confusion and disorder. "Appearance" is the operative word. I find the chaos to be completely functional. I rely on my own, unique organizational theory: It's better occasionally to waste time searching for items than regularly to take time keeping the place tidy with everything meticulously filed.

I know what you're thinking. My mother didn't agree with my theory either.

I admit that I struggle with procrastination. But me, a perfectionist? Hardly. A perfectionist is someone who does everything perfectly. I only think about doing things perfectly.

Not long ago, the person who wrote the article had the opportunity to hear what Rick Warren, pastor of Saddleback Church in Southern California, had to say on this subject. A procrastinator, says Warren, is nothing more than a frustrated perfectionist.

A perfectionist is convinced she must prove her worth by being perfect. A perfectionist craves approval. Warren contends it's the fear of not being able to perform perfectly that leads to procrastination. And procrastination eventually leads to paralysis.

There are times I can go over something for hours on end without completing anything. Even though I have a great idea, a clear-cut objective, and a plan to get there. Until I know I can do it perfectly, I'm paralyzed.

Have you ever felt paralyzed by your procrastination? Perhaps perfectionism is at the root of the problem.

Could it be that you're so worried about making a mistake, you find yourself paralyzed? Are you holding yourself to an unattainable standard of perfection? That could be what's keeping you stuck right where you are.

Perfectionism can keep us from moving forward, but it doesn't have to be that way. There are antidotes for perfectionism.

1. Believe that no one is perfect. You will liberate yourself when you lower your expectations from perfect to realistic. Don't be afraid to make a mistake. You don't have to be perfect to be happy.

2. Let go and let God handle things. It takes a lot of faith to let go of those things over which we have no control.

3. Learn contentment. Life must be lived in less than perfect circumstances. Accept that. Love the moment, and enjoy the journey. Dump the pressure that says you must be perfect to be accepted.

It's time to break out of my prison of perfectionism. I must identify what I need to do and take the first step. Even if I fall flat on my face, I will have gained at least five feet. Then take the second step, and the third. Before I know it, I will be making terrific progress. Not perfection, but progress!

©Copyright 2010 Mary Hunt
Everyday Cheapskate is a Registered Trademark

I truly admire people who say they are going to do something or think about doing something and do it! What I want to know is how they do it. I want to figure out how to do things right now; without hesitation. Because one day I'm going to be like that.