Why Avoid Perfectionism?

Note: Why Overcome perfectionism. Well, We are not perfect. We are imperfect humans born into an sinful imperfect world, who are not capable of being a perfectionist.  I was too at one time. I saw that it was affecting my health and I decided, hey, it just isn't worth it. I just have to do the best I can and accept it.  Also, worrying about what other people think of us is not worth it. Because it will drive you bonkers as well. What is most important, is what Jehovah God thinks of us.


Work of superior quality, meeting high standards of precision and excellence, is in demand.  So people must compete in the job market. Another factor  causing many to strive harder and harder is fear of losing one's means of sustenance.  Some workers become like the athlete who makes extreme sacrifices to set a new record.  Then, when faced with tough competition, he may feel driven to train even more, perhaps using chemical substances to improve and -he-hopes-to win. Replacing a healthy pursuit of excellence, perfectionism causes people to be "motivated by the fear of failure"  or "driven to be number one." -The Feeling Good Handbook.

Admittedly, some feel that when they may do in the arts or sports can always be improved.  Still, according to Dr. Robert S. Eliot, "perfectionism is expectation that never meets reality."  (SO RIGHT!)  He adds: "It is comprised of guilt, defensiveness, and the fear of ridicule."  Hence, how true are the words of wise King Solomon:  "I myself have seen all the hard work and all the proficiency in work, that it means the rivalry of one towards another; this also is vanity and a striving after the wind." -Ecclesiastes 4:4.

What can you do it you tend to be a perfectionist?  Is it true that the harder you strive, the more disappointment you get? (In my opinion, yes)  Would you like to be less demanding and more relaxed? What does it mean to be perfect?  Do you not yearn to use your fullest potential while avoiding perfectionism? If imperfect humans can use their God-given abilities to discover things for the benefit of others, imagine what mankind could achieve under perfect conditions  and divine guidance! (God does not expect more of us than we are capable of giving.We just do the best we can and accept it)

Next time: Perfect Life Not Just  a Dream!

The Watchtower, 2000