By Christi Nation
Perfectionism and creativity cannot coexist.
“Perfectionism can be fear of judgment in disguise.” – Chiara B Townley.
Many people do not try to create because they have been conditioned that it must be perfect on the first try. In this life, perfection is impossible.
Our Creator is the only one who is perfect and knows we are not. Striving for excellence should be the goal. As I write this column I have pangs of perfectionism in writing it. Creating this article is more important than worrying it will not be perfect. Perhaps others have this thought on their minds as they work on their projects. The creativity does not happen until we try and fail and try again without fear.
Some people do not let their creative side out or attempt endeavors because they are afraid of failure. Some have pigeon-holed themselves into the “I am not creative” label. Everyone needs to realize that they are creative and to not be stopped by a conditioned label.
Until next time, here are our latest Happiness Actions:
- Read about billionaire Spanx founder, Sara Blakely. Her dad used to invite her and her brother to share their failures at the dinner table. Instead of being disappointed or upset, he would celebrate their efforts.
- Choose a project you are scared to start because you don’t think you are “creative” enough.
I’ve always wanted to paint, but have been scared to death of the outcome. What’s the worst that can happen? A messed up canvas. In other words…no big deal. The NEXT one will be better. So will your project!
Christi Nation is the author of Happiness Actions and President of Nation Training & Development. She helps businesses and nonprofits with getting and keeping customers and donors through her 20 years of experience in training, conference speaking, marketing, fundraising, and sales.
