Finding beauty in imperfection

A woman holding a placard. (Photo by Moe Magners from Pexels)

The pressure to be flawless can seem too much in a world where everyone is chasing perfection. Whether it's societal norms or our self-judgment, we constantly get the message that we must be perfect.

Yet, in this relentless race, we often overlook finding beauty in imperfections. Acknowledging imperfections and giving up the perfect tag is not a weakness or defeat; it's freeing and empowering. It's a bold move in accepting oneself and a way to personal development. In this piece, we'll look at the downsides of always wanting to be perfect. Also, the changed power when you accept imperfection, and the happiness and liberty in letting go of too-high expectations. 

The dangers of perfectionism

Seeking perfection is usually admired, but it can have its pitfalls. Trying hard for superior results can be a force for good, but chasing the ideal might bring bad outcomes. An enormous drawback of being a perfectionist is constantly feeling the need to reach impossible targets. This notion can create overwhelming stress and worry.

Unachievable goals and disaster avoidance often drive perfectionism. This intense urge for victory can trigger multiple emotional woes.

  • Increased Anxiety and depression
  • Low Self-Esteem
  • Procrastination
  • Burnout

People who aim for perfection often need help. They're scared of blunders, of not hitting their sky-high goals. Besides, such an outlook can limit a person's growth and creative spark. They might sidestep new prospects, gripped by the dread of not reaching flawlessness.

Embracing Imperfection: A path to freedom

Releasing ourselves from external expectations is a transformative journey toward reclaiming autonomy and living authentically. Society inundates us with predefined standards, urging us to conform to success, appearance, and relationships. However, breaking free from these pressures liberates us to pave our unique paths. 

By shedding the weight of external expectations, we discover true happiness, defining our priorities independently. This journey encourages exploring passions, pursuing dreams, and aligning choices with values. Instead of seeking validation, we cultivate self-worth irrespective of external judgments. 

We become architects of our lives. Letting go fosters self-compassion and recognizes the value of individuality. Authenticity deepens connections, attracting like-minded individuals who appreciate us. Living authentically inspires others, fostering empowerment and acceptance in a genuine community.

Finding beauty and grace  

"But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness. Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me."

- 2 Corinthians 12:9 

The ideal of perfection, as espoused by Jesus, remains a cornerstone of faith. However, a subtle paradox emerges when grappling with persistent imperfections: these flaws can become catalysts for spiritual growth.

Like rough-hewn stones, our human limitations compel us to seek Divine support. St. Paul himself, beset by a persistent thorn, pleaded for removal. Yet, God's response, "My grace is sufficient," revealed how imperfections highlight His strength.

Furthermore, these perceived deficiencies foster empathy and connection. Acknowledging our own stumbles equips us to extend compassion to others grappling with similar struggles. Let us remember the parable of the tax collector and the Pharisee. Unlike the Pharisees' prideful facade, the tax collectors' embrace of his shortcomings resonated with God.

Therefore, finding beauty in our fallibility does not contradict Jesus' call. We strive for perfection, not as self-made idols, but as God's imperfect creations. We are beautifully vulnerable to His grace and the unifying embrace of our fellow humans. 


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    Joseph Antonio Liao

    Joseph is a freelance writer, Christian minister, and author of the book: "Sober with God." Joseph maintains a website:josephantonioliao.com He has also been active in sharing the Gospel in churches, drug rehabs, and homes and on how God heals the individual and the family from the wreckage of drug abuse and alcoholism.

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