I shared this art on Instagram recently for all of my perfectionist friends. Any Enneagram Type can be a perfectionist, but it is especially common for Type 1s. Sometimes it’s okay to let go, especially of those expectations of how things should be. The word “should” is often what plagues perfectionists. They strive to live up to their own or others’ standards of how they thing something should go or should be.
We are allowed to free ourself from expectations. When we do let go of these expectations, we give room for something new and maybe even something better to arise. Letting go can also look like a release of control. So often our need for perfection comes from a desire to want to be in control. In reality, though, we can not control our lives. Letting go of that control can be scary but it’s also an acceptance of how things are. The things that are beyond our control can be released.
So, take a deep breath. Inhale slowly and exhale deeply. Read these words and let them sink deep into you.
Things don’t have to be perfect to be beautiful. Sometimes being done is just good enough. Seeking perfection might be the very thing that is confining you. What if you could focus on beauty, goodness and wholeness? You are worthy now. You can put down the burden of being perfect.
I hope these words bring you some peace and comfort today if you have been struggling with perfectionism.
