Not Perfect, But Enough

If there is one thing that I could tell my 20-year old self, it’s that perfect is not the goal.

You don’t have to be perfect to be all that is enough. My 20-year old self would disagree.

But in the past 10 years, I’ve experienced some convincing moments that have taught me a few things about perfection, happiness, goals and self-interest. Things like…

 

You don’t have to be perfect for people to like you.

You don’t have to be perfect to be inspiring.

You don’t have to be perfect to take the next step on the path.

You don’t have to be perfect to make a first attempt.

You don’t have to be perfect to be happy.

You don’t have to be perfect to be loved.

 

I believed in being perfect when I was younger. That was a mistake.

What is the perfect person? If asked to give a definition, could you? I couldn’t then I won’t try now. I know it’s not a question that is to be answered.

Nobody is perfect. Everyone is enough.

 

When you are in a new place surrounded by new people, you will find new friends and you’ll find they like you despite, or because of, your imperfections.

If you are kind, and thoughtful, and brave, you will inspire.

You’ll face new opportunities and new paths in life every day. You should take that first step.

When you discover a new idea or activity, you don’t have to know how to do it or that you will be great at it, but you should try it anyways.

When you find peace with yourself, you will be happy.

When you find the one who improves your soul, who makes you smile simply by existing, who helps you love yourself and treats you like you are special every day, you are loved.

And that is enough.