She is what she is and she is whole.

This quote by Dr. Clarissa Pinkola Estes is the perfect definition of perfect. In the tradition of the book Creator-based® Coaching: Creating Your One Awesome, Amazing, Perfect Life, this month’s theme is Perfect, as in whole and complete,

I ask, 

“Are you a perfectionist?”

Synonyms for perfectionist could be ‘purist, idealist, traditionalist, insistent person, precisionist, never satisfied with the average life, born to shine’. They can also be ‘quibbler, nitpicker, fanatic, picky, pushy, too big for her britches; she thinks she’s all that…’

I discovered an amazing book by Katherine Morgan Schafler entitled ‘The Perfectionists Guide to Losing Control.’ She mentions that being branded a perfectionist with a negative connotation seems to be uniquely feminine. Women often refer to themselves as ‘recovering perfectionists.’  Have you ever heard Steve Jobs, Gordon Ramsey, or other male leaders criticized for excellence or perfection?

Why does that happen to us as women? We may be criticized or called pushy when we embrace our drive, precision, and excellence. Have you ever felt pushback for your precious gift? Of course, there are all kinds of people in the world and all kinds of gifts. Not everyone is a perfectionist, but we all bring something wonderful to this grand earth of ours.

• You were born to shine. Perfectionism is a powerful energy. 
• Perfectionism is a gift from above. You do not have to stop being a perfectionist to be healthy. Perfectionism does not have to be a struggle. 
• You are not broken.
• Perfectionism is a deep inner recognition of what you can and will be as you create your life. There’s nothing wrong with you- you are perfect, whole, and complete right now. Remember your favorite person’s laugh. Perfect, right? Remember a newborn baby sleeping. Perfect, too. They are perfect because of the love you feel when you are with them. Others feel that way about you. You are perfect too.
• Try this thought every day this week. If you feel really brave, look into your eyes in the mirror and tell yourself,

‘You are perfect. You are whole and complete right now.’

Some gifts feel like a burden until you understand how they serve you. All month long, we will be talking about how to embrace and create with your inner gift of striving for perfection. That perfectionist part of you may believe that she is wrong or in trouble for being who she is. We will help you work with the truth and beauty of perfection. Perfection is a superpower- embrace it, and let’s create something great together!

Consider joining us on the podcast, the 50/50 Girl Club, or in a personal coaching session to truly enjoy and embrace the gift of imperfection. We even have coaching groups if you enjoy making new friends and working with others.

You are perfect.

If that statement doesn’t sit well with you, consider bringing to mind someone you love very, very much. With that love in your heart, take a moment to think of yourself in that same way. You may need to engage your imagination, but you can feel that same love for yourself!

Practice that thought. Let’s embrace our perfectionist power together!!

Practicing the self-acceptance of being whole and complete will unlock a power in you that will allow you to accomplish that thing that’s been on your heart. Do it, girlfriend!

I can and I will.

So can you.

All my love, 

Beth