Recently, I was asked in an interview to name one of my weaknesses. I thought for a moment before admitting that, at times, I could be a bit of a perfectionist.

It wasn’t so much about submitting a perfect written article or smoothly launching a communications campaign without any mistakes, though that was part of it. It was more about my fear of failing.

For years, I avoided going outside my comfort zone or pursuing specific career opportunities because I worried I wouldn’t be good enough and my failure would be evident. I believed I needed more experience or to be at a particular level to ensure my success. I thought I had to be good, if not twice as good, to succeed. Therefore, I wanted to be “perfect” before I even tried.

Aim for success, not perfection. Never give up your right to be wrong, because then you will lose the ability to learn new things and move forward with your life.

Dr David M. Burns

I didn’t realise that being imperfect would enable me to succeed and help me manage the unrealistic expectations I put upon myself. And they were unrealistic! Not even the most gifted person gets things right every time.

Once I changed my mindset, my life began to change. I saw that embracing my imperfections provided opportunities for growth as I learned from my mistakes rather than resignedly accepting that I was no good at something. Embracing my imperfections gave me the grace and freedom to accept myself as I know that each day is a chance for me to begin again.

It also encouraged me to try and do the things that scare me and to step out into the unknown. When I started writing this blog, I was plagued by many anxieties, such as, “No one will read this” or “This isn’t good enough; who will take me seriously?”.

Remember that fear always lurks behind perfectionism. Confronting your fears and allowing yourself the right to be human can, paradoxically, make yourself a happier and more productive person.

Dr David M. Burns

But it didn’t matter whether my anxieties were valid; what mattered was whether I would let my fear stop me from doing something I loved. And I’m glad I started writing, regardless of the response (or lack thereof!). And I’m going to continue.

Removing the obstacle of perfectionism has made life much more interesting and exciting, as I’m now willing to take chances and try things I would have been too afraid to do before.

What’s holding you back? Is it perfectionism or something else? I encourage you today to step out of your comfort zone and embrace what scares you. It might be just what you need to get where you want to be.

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