On Being an Imperfectionist
Perfectionism can be a double-edged sword; it can be an excellent motivator, but it can also be self-defeating. In reality, few things in life are perfect, and striving for perfection may not always be productive. I recently finished Adam Grant's new book, "Hidden Potential," (which I recommend heartily) and he introduced a fascinating idea: becoming an "Imperfectionist." It has been on my mind ever since.
According to Grant, the concept of being an imperfectionist is all about focusing on progress, not perfection. Since perfection is not always attainable, we’re better off focusing on improving a little bit every day. The idea is to embrace your flaws and imperfections and learn from them, instead of hiding them or being ashamed.
When it comes to organizing our homes, many of us think we want a perfect space. But the fact is, we live there. A space full of living beings will almost never be perfect, and that’s a good thing. It means you’re living life there! I remind people often that progress is more important than perfection — getting that junk drawer purged will give you momentum to continue decluttering, even if you’re still overwhelmed by the rest of your home.
Another way we can embrace imperfectionism in our homes is by recognizing what The Nester calls “lovely limitations.” There are things about our homes that limit us in various ways, but instead of being negatives, those limitations can be blessings. Maybe you, like me, don’t even have a pantry, let alone a gorgeous walk-in pantry of decanted pastas and shiny acrylic bins of snacks. I have been known to lament my kitchen’s absent pantry, but I can also be grateful for the narrow cupboard where we store our food, which keeps me from overbuying and letting food expire. And, my small kitchen keeps me from wasting money on kitchen gadgets I don’t need. Imperfect, lovely limitations.
Imperfectionism also means having a kinder, more compassionate attitude towards yourself and others. We are humans, and making mistakes is a natural part of the learning process for us. Beating yourself up about purchases you regret, or lamenting how your spouse or kids disregard your organizational systems can be a big temptation. I tend to think decluttering one closet and basking in that success will provide more value than lamenting the money spent on a trendy sweater you actually hated or the kitchen gadget you never used.
Adopting an imperfectionist mindset can reduce stress and anxiety. You can enjoy the process of learning and growing without putting unnecessary pressure on yourself to be perfect. Try a new organizing system or routine, and if it doesn’t work, you can enjoy having learned something, and move on to try something else.
So, while striving for excellence and doing your best is important, being a perfectionist can hold you back and lead to feelings of frustration and burnout. By becoming an imperfectionist, you can focus on progress, embrace your flaws, and lead a more fulfilling life. Progress, not perfection, is the key to success. In life and in organizing.
Oh hey there! I’m Ashley, and I love my job as a professional home organizer in Jamestown, ND. I help people clear clutter and get their homes organized. Judgement is not included in my services! No matter your starting point, we can declutter, organize and set you up in a space that works for you. We’ll work together and when I leave, you’ll have the systems to keep it up.
Click HERE to schedule a complimentary consultation to chat about how I can help you be the boss of your stuff.
