A Positive Spin on Perfectionism

Hey friends,

Today I want to talk about something that has followed me throughout my life thus far: perfectionism. However, today, I want to put a positive spin on this topic.

To me, perfectionism means wanting EVERYTHING in my life to be perfect, and when things are inevitably not perfect, I can sometimes become paralyzed by anxiety. I’m sure you can relate.

Strangely enough, I used to not think of myself as a perfectionist. I remember a teacher called me a perfectionist one time, and I thought, “What, not me?”

I especially struggled with perfectionism in high school. When I think back on my struggle with perfectionism, one specific instance comes to mind. It was my junior year, and I was preparing to compete at the National FFA contest.

My sister and I had won state in the Agriscience Fair and Senior Quiz the year before, and it was finally our time to shine at the national level. As I tried to prepare for the events, I felt this immense fear and anxiety build up inside of me. I thought things like:

“What if I am not good enough?” What are people going to think of me if I don’t win?” How am I supposed to live up to the standard I’ve set for myself.”

Luckily, I have some really awesome people in my life who always point me back to the truth.

I ended up going to the national contest and winning both events, even placing first individually in the quiz contest. Thinking back on these accomplishments, I can see that God used them to open so many doors for me. I am currently living in the fruit of God’s blessings to me that October week. TWO national championships in one week? That’s pretty unheard of, but that’s God for ya! ;)

Now you might be wondering, “How does this apply to me?” Maybe you don’t really consider yourself a perfectionist, and that’s totally okay. But have you ever wondered why you absolutely despise the negative attributes of life? Have you ever wondered why no matter how hard you try, you just can’t seem to measure up. You desperately desire to be the perfect mother, daughter, friend, wife, and student, and you beat yourself up when you can’t be. There's always more to do and someone else who is doing it better.

I understand. The chase for perfection used to drive me crazy……. until I came across a verse that gave me a bit of clarity.

Ecclesiastes 3:11 says that “God set eternity in the human heart.”

Do you know what that means? Perfectionism is proof that we were made for more. In the depths of our souls, we desire God’s perfect love. How lucky are we to have such a perfect Savior.

Rest in this truth today, friend. If you know Jesus, you quite literally have nothing to fear. Your eternity is secure in Him.

I could write a whole book about this topic, and maybe one day I will, but for now, I’ll leave you with this: Let perfectionism lead you to the feet of Jesus…. the well that never runs dry.

Love,

Breanna Chavez