What does perfection really mean? And why do we strive so hard to achieve it?

According to Webster’s Dictionary, “Perfection is defined as an unsurpassable degree of accuracy or excellence.”

Read that again.

Perfection is also defined as, “Freedom from fault or defect.” Really let that sink in and read it slowly. Freedom from fault and defect. There is no possible way to be free of fault and defect. We all have flaws and weaknesses. Life is all about embracing them wholeheartedly.

In today’s society it is harder than ever to not fall victim to the vicious and relentless cycle of not feeling good enough. It can be a hard battle and honestly it’s not worth your time. We get caught up on social media. We constantly compare ourselves to unattainable lifestyles and celebrity statuses. The Kim Kardashians of the world, super models and actresses who incessantly post portrayals of flawlessness. Really think about those images and videos. How many times do you see someone posting a video of them uncontrollably crying? Or with greasy hair? Or with a massive zit on their nose? Ummm, never! Content we see is only part of the story and quite honestly it creates a false version of self. No one can be happy every second of every day. We all have our own battles and wounds. Everyone has a story you don’t know about.

Heck, we even engage in these behaviors within our own social circles, at work or even at the gym. How many times have you caught yourself thinking or saying something like, “I wish I could look like that every time I workout.” Or, “Sally was so much more talkative at last night’s party; why can’t I always think of the right things to say.” Or, “Joe is always getting more attention from other employees at work, there must be something wrong with me.”

These thought processes are unhealthy and harmful.

Just last week I caught myself comparing me to Aly Raisman, the Olympic Gymnast, and for a second it sucked. However, because I now know better, I stopped myself, took a big DEEP breath and thought of something positive. Feelings of not being good enough are awful and belittling. They can break you. But you CAN change your mindset.

When you find yourself falling into that dark rabbit hole, STOP what you’re doing. Take a deep breath or two. Get off social media. Write down five reasons why you are awesome. Think of everything you are grateful for. Call your best friend. Take your dog for a walk. Do whatever makes YOU feel GOOD about who YOU are. Because who you are is worth it!

You are more than the makeup you wear on your face. You are more that expensive suit or designer jeans. You are more than those fake eyelashes and hair extensions. You are more than the kind of car you drive. You are more than your job title. You are more than your bank account. You are SO MUCH MORE than all of that superficial stuff. You are perfect just the way you are.

Be content with who YOU are. Be confident in knowing YOU are the most beautiful or handsome human to grace this earth.

“Being yourself means shedding all the layers of looking good, wanting to be liked, being scared to stand out and trying to be who you think people want you to be. Being yourself means being naked, raw and vulnerable.” – Jeff Moore

Challenge yourself.

Wear no makeup today. Sing at the top of your lungs. Wear socks that don’t match. Forget the hair gel. Don’t shave. Post a picture when you feel sad. Snap a quick video of you doing something silly. Do what makes you feel good and who cares what everyone else thinks.

And most of all, remember that you are good enough. You have always been good enough and you will be always be good enough.