I know this is why I used to be such a terrible procrastinator, why I could get projects started but not finished, why it was easier to waste time watching TV than actually do anything. Even in graduate school, where I was studying creative writing, I had the worst time actually writing anything. But it was there that I learned the value of revision and that often the best art comes from, as Anne Lamott would say, a sh*tty first draft.
What’s more important that perfection is doing something, doing anything. It’s okay to make a mess. It’s okay to do it wrong or have to do it over. It’s better to try and fail than never try at all (that’s a saying, right?). Like Samuel Becket said: “Ever tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try again. Fail again. Fail better.”
All this to say that I’m still taking photos everyday, even if my photo for the day isn’t the best. I’m making a mess with Project Life, even if my layouts are perfect. I’m working on projects that are pushing me outside of my comfort zone, and I’m realizing that done is better than perfect. So often, that’s getting me through the day.
i have been pondering some of this… i have never been what i would call a perfectionist… but i struggle with failure or with the idea that i might mess up… i remember flylady saying that is how perfectionists think and i wondered if i have that as a personality trait after all? i procrastinate like ALL GET OUT. i know that much. and really need to JUST DO. xo
Sounds like maybe you are a bit of a perfectionist, but that’s okay. I am such a fan of “just start” (I’m sure you’ve heard this from me before). It goes hand in hand with the idea of progress over perfection. And I try not to overthink things. I want to be a do-er, you know? (I think you want that too, am I right?) 😉
wise words, my dear friend. as I read this, the first thing that comes to my mind is how I tend to “overthink” everything which usually results in never making it happen. oh, I have some great ideas brewing in my brain (so I think…), it’s just starting that can be so difficult for me. most likely a warped form of perfectionism, yes? i’m taking your words to heart and beginning now, i’m going to take baby steps each day to fulfill all those lovely ideas stirring in my mind. who knows what may come of it? it’s been wonderful watching you grow, leap toward your life with fearlessness and make things happen!! thank you for being such an inspiration and for sharing in an honest way here, which can be so hard sometimes…putting yourself out there for the world to have an opinion on (and not always a helpful opinion…). I’m learning much from you. thank you.
Thank you, April, for all your kind words here! I love the idea of “just start”. So powerful! Embracing that has given me so much freedom. I’m grateful that this has meant so much to you. And I’m grateful knowing you’re here. xo.
Hi Lindsay!
I needed to read this today. Perfectionism and fear, the combination is paralyzing. I’m working through that and simply DO, CREATE, SHARE, LOVE…
I’ve been coming here and following you on IG for a couple months and been so inspired. Thought I’d let you know. 😉
Hi Jessica! Thank you for saying hello! I’m so glad you know that you’re here. Do, create, share, love — all good things! It’s so good take steps away from perfectionism, even if they’re small ones. xo.