Developing the Courage to Be Imperfect


PERMISSION TO REPUBLISH: This article may be republished in newsletters and on web sites provided attribution is provided to the author, and it appears with the included copyright, resource box and live web site link. Email notice of intent to publish is appreciated but not required. Mail to: eagibbs@ureach.com

You may be feeling insecure and unsure of your next move. You might have been trying your best to change. Or, you might not have seen any significant changes in your behavior or in your thinking since you started your earnest efforts.

Don't give up! Don't worry! Positive change, like anything else, takes time and practice. In the meanwhile, I encourage you to develop the courage to be imperfect. With this ever-increasing courage, you'll be in a better position to focus your energies on your present that you can influence rather than worry about your past that you cannot change nor your future that you cannot control.

To help you get on your way, here is a list of items to consider:

· Human perfection is impossible; the pursuit of it is not.

· We need to be encouraged to stay on the path of perfection. The motivation does not come naturally.

· We also need to focus on abilities, not on our inabilities.

· The self-evaluation that comes with trying to be better than others brings with it the fear of making mistakes.

· Anticipating the dangers of making mistakes makes us error-prone.

· Too many relationships are mistake-centered.

· Too many relationships are based on fault-finding.

· Realize your limits and don't try to correct or change too many things at once.

· Develop your personal strengths and worth.

· Complete the circle: Mutual respect begins by valuing yourself.

· Pursue your ambitions, but avoid giving or receiving fierce competition, discouragement, unrealistically high standards, and overambitious.

· Set your course while remembering that you're a normal, average, imperfect human being.

Remember: When you maximize your potential, everyone wins. When you don't, we all lose.

© MMIV, Etienne A. Gibbs, MSW

About the Author

Etienne A. Gibbs, MSW, Management Consultant and Trainer, conducts seminars, lectures, and writes articles on his theme: "... helping you maximize your potential." He may be reached at http://eagibbs.usana.com; at
www.executiveandgrouptravel.blogspot.com; at eagibbs@ureach.com, or at 502-386-1175.