Breaking Free From Perfection: Why You Don’t Need All the Answers
There are many times in my life that I stopped myself from doing things because I thought I wasn't qualified, or that I didn't have all of the right balls in place.
I thought I had to have all of the i's dotted and the t's crossed before any business idea would work.
I was mislead by old social narratives about qualifications and diplomas and where I'd studied mattered.
I never applied for that job that I was probably more than qualified already to get, and I didn't take those holidays or adventures I so desperately wanted because I thought going on my own or not having some fabulous reason to go meant I wasn't entitled to the trip.
"You see.... when you think you need to be perfect, it can have massive ramifications for your whole life." - Hulya Erdal
In a world that often celebrates perfection and certainty, especially for women striving to excel in their careers and personal lives, it can be daunting to move forward without having everything figured out. Yet, when we read those interviews for some of the most successful and fulfilled women, embracing the unknown without having all the answers, is actually where the miracles occur.
“Perfection is overrated. Imperfection is what makes us unique and wonderful.” – Arianna Huffington
A study conducted by the University of Bath and York St John University found that women in the UK report higher levels of socially prescribed perfectionism compared to men. Socially prescribed perfectionism, which involves perceiving that others expect perfection from oneself, has been linked to increased levels of anxiety and depression among women (Frontiers) (PsyPost - Psychology News).
In this newsletter, I'm here to tell you why letting go of the need for perfection can be the key to unlocking your true potential.
Whether you're pursuing a new career, embarking on a personal project, looking for a new relationshp, or simply trying to live the life you desire, it's time to ditch the perfection trap!
Here's what happens when you release the need to be perfect:
Encourages Growth and Learning: When you accept that you don’t need to have all the answers, you open yourself up to new experiences and learning opportunities. This mindset allows you to grow both personally and professionally, as you're more willing to take risks and explore uncharted territories.
Reduces Stress and Anxiety: Perfectionism often leads to high levels of stress and anxiety, as the fear of making mistakes can be overwhelming. By letting go of the need for perfection, you can reduce these negative feelings and create a more balanced and fulfilling life.
Enhances Creativity and Innovation: Embracing imperfection fosters a creative and innovative mindset. When you're not constrained by the need for everything to be perfect, you're more likely to think outside the box and come up with unique solutions and ideas.
Builds Resilience: Accepting that mistakes and failures are part of the journey builds resilience. This resilience is crucial for overcoming obstacles and bouncing back stronger, enabling you to pursue your goals with greater determination and confidence.
Authenticity and Connection: Letting go of perfection allows you to be more authentic, which can lead to deeper and more meaningful connections with others. Authenticity fosters trust and respect, both in personal relationships and professional networks.
Eat away at your SELF-ESTEEM.
Confuse your SELF-WORTH.
Weaken your SELF-VALUE.
I want more for you, and you should want more for YOU.
BUT.... NOT at the detriment of your-SELF.
Seeking PERFECTION does this!
Here are some practical tips on how to break free from the confines of perfection and find success on your own terms.
1. Set Realistic Goals:
- Break down your larger goals into smaller, manageable tasks.
- Celebrate your progress, not just the end result.
2. Embrace Failure as a Learning Opportunity:
- View mistakes as valuable lessons rather than setbacks.
- Reflect on what you can learn from each experience and how you can improve moving forward.
3. Practice Self-Compassion:
- Treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding you would offer a friend.
- Remind yourself that no one is perfect and that it's okay to have flaws.
4. Focus on the Process, Not Just the Outcome:
- Enjoy the journey and the experiences along the way.
- Appreciate the effort you put into your work, regardless of the result.
5. Limit Comparisons with Others:
- Recognise that everyone’s path is different, and comparing yourself to others can be detrimental.
- Focus on your own progress and what makes you unique.
6. Seek Feedback and Support:
- Surround yourself with supportive individuals who encourage your growth.
- Ask for constructive feedback to help you improve without being critical of yourself.
7. Adopt a Growth Mindset:
- Believe in your ability to grow and improve over time.
- View challenges as opportunities to develop new skills and knowledge.
8. Prioritise Self-Care:
- Ensure you are taking care of your mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
- Set aside time for activities that bring you joy and relaxation.
Final Thoughts:
You don't need all of the answers to anything. Seriously, anything!
Of course, if you plan to offer advice or be a surgeon, then yes, you need to study and know what you're doing.
🫵YOU ARE ENOUGH!
🫵YOU HAVE STUDIED ENOUGH.
🫵YOU HAVE ENOUGH WORK EXPERIENCE.
🫵YOU DESERVE THAT INCREASE IN SALARY.
🫵YOU ARE GORGEOUS ENOUGH RIGHT NOW!!
This doesn't mean you don't work towards something or want to improve.
It just means that as you grow and learn and lose a few pounds or whatever it is for you.... you do it with confidence, self-belief and a more positive mindset!
NOW GO OUT THERE AND HAVE A WICKED DAY, AN INCREDIBLE LIFE...
....BECAUSE YOU DESERVE IT MY DEAR AND BEAUTIFUL FRIEND!
#perfection #yourself #selfdiscovery #selfworth #selfvalue #selfbelief
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⭐Hi I'm Hulya.⭐
✅ For the past 20 years I've been delivering culinary training, mentoring and self-discovery coaching globally, to everyone aged 8 to 80.
👉 I am a certified transformational coach, professional chef and teacher.
💥 I work with midlife women to help them rewrite their story, one recipe at a time, because their old story no longer fits the life they want to live.
🧑🍳 Merging the power of cooking and transformational coaching, I take clients on a journey of self-discovery, giving them the tools and skills to live authentically.
✍ Are you ready to rewrite your story?🫵
📞Book a FREE SELF-DISCOVERY CALL here 👇 :
Community Builder, Brand Marketing & Events | Founder of WeTalk.
1yLOVE this Hulya Erdal and 100% agreed with you - seeking perfection could be counterproductive and stop you from actually taking action. Thank you for the precious advice!
💥Nourishing your soul, Nurturing your spirit - Taking you on a Culinary Journey of Self-Discovery | LinkedIn Top Voice💡| Chef 🧑🍳| Coach 🫵| BBC Radio Personality 🎧| 👉Ambassador - The Burnt Chef Project👈
1yThis message doesn't just go out to my midlife women today... This is for everyone that has struggled with the perfection trap. As a hospitality professional, perfection is seen as the gold standard. We place huge expectations on our-self and others to make things outstanding for the guests we serve. It's OK to strive for a beautiful plate of food but don't do it at the detriment of your mental wellbeing. I discovered that what you think is perfection is way beyond what a guest or customer will think. In fact, in my teaching profession, it was the simplest things that gave the greatest joy to many of my students and clients. And still does today. Let the perfection go, it will only hold you back.