2 exercises to help you let go of perfectionism

Over the last few years, I’ve noticed a recurring theme among clients. That being the myth of ‘perfection’. Believing that, when it comes to how we live our lives, we must reach for some flawless, idealised destination or outcome.

The problem with this belief lies in it serving the dual and conflicting functions of fuelling our ambition and drive - and then just as powerfully stopping us in our tracks.

For some people, the pressure to meet an unrealistic standard can make it harder to start, finish or feel satisfied with what they've done. This can leave us feeling under pressure and contribute to an underlying sense of discontent.

So if you’re interested in overcoming a perfectionist streak in yourself, here are two exercises I invite you to have a play with...

2 exercises to help let go of perfectionism

1. Journalling

This can be a great way of creating some space for yourself - to download thoughts from your head to paper and consider how you'd like to approach the day. It can give you some space to reflect before all those other demands start flying in.

Even just 10 minutes may be enough to give yourself some useful space to reflect. All you need is a dedicated notebook and pen or pencil and a space for yourself to think, create, write or design.

Rather than trying to force it to be something it ‘should’ be, let go of ‘perfect’ and just have a go and see what works for you.

Here are some ideas to get started with:

• How do I want today to be?
• How will I be honouring my core values today? For example, how will I be kind, generous or loving?
• What would make today feel worthwhile?
• By the end of the day, what will I be feeling most pleased with?
• What are the skills, strengths and attitudes I will bring to my day?
• What do I need to accept or let go of that is not for me to change or control?

2. The rocking chair exercise

For this, just find a quiet place to sit and reflect. You can have a notebook and pen or pencil handy to capture what emerges for you.

Close your eyes and imagine you are much older, sitting quietly on your rocking chair, feeling relaxed and contented, casting your mind back over your life.

Ask yourself:

• What are my fondest memories as I think about the life I have lived?
• What gives me the biggest sense of pride and satisfaction?
• What are my greatest achievements?
• What difference have I made?
• What would I like to be remembered for?
• What regrets do I have - if any?

Then, back in the present day, ask yourself:

• What could I start being or doing today that reflects the life I'd like to look back on?

These two exercises are designed to help you step back from the pressure of achieving a perfect outcome and focus instead on what genuinely matters to you.

So keep making space for exploring and experimenting with these thoughts and ideas so they can emerge and expand. Write it all down, draw it, speak it, imagine it. Whatever way works for you, get it out there and start exploring what matters to you.