Creating Space … To Overcome Perfectionism

”It is not that practice makes perfect, but that practice is perfect, combining effort with an openness to grace.” — David Richo

Photo by Raul Ortin

Let's talk about the word contentment.

Where does this idea come from— that "I'm not good enough" or "I didn't do enough"? I know I'm not the only one who struggles with this.

I applaud all the ambitious souls out there. I see you all over my timelines, and I salute you! I'm not suggesting ambition is wrong— achieving, finding victory, overcoming challenges— those things deserve to be celebrated!

But at what point do we pause and revel in the satisfaction of all we've accomplished? How often do we allow our very best to be enough, regardless of the outcome? Why does contentment have to be negative, lumped in with complacency? What if contentment is simply a space for reflection— for acknowledgment and gratitude?

Contentment vs. Complacency: Let's Get Clear

Somewhere along the way, we confused contentment with complacency. But they are not the same.

• Complacency is settling because you've stopped caring. It's losing your spark, avoiding growth, and resisting change.

• Contentment, on the other hand, is a deep breath. It's a moment of gratitude for where you are right now, while still being open to growth. It's the peace that comes from knowing you are enough— without giving up on becoming even more.

Where Did This Feeling Start?

And yet, that nagging voice— "I should be doing more"— creeps in anyway. Where did it come from? Was it trying to meet our parents' expectations? Peer pressure? And now... are we passing that same dissatisfaction down to our own kids or colleagues without even realizing it?

I Don't Have All the Answers (and That's Okay)

This post has been a long time coming because I told myself I had to master overcoming perfectionism before I could write about it. (Oh, the irony!) I still haven't mastered it. But I do know this: perfectionism gets in the way of my peace. And I'm not okay with that.

Embracing Contentment and Releasing Perfectionism

If you've felt this too, here are a few simple strategies I'm practicing— and maybe they'll help you, too:

✓ Practice the art of "good enough." Progress matters more than perfection.

✓ Focus on just this moment. Be present. Take it one task, one breath at a time.

✓ Celebrate small wins. Don't wait for the finish line to feel proud.

✓ Take mindful breaks. Rest isn't laziness. It's fuel for the journey.

✓ Release comparison. Your path is yours alone. Respect its pace.

✓ Lead with self-compassion. Speak to yourself the way you would to someone you love.

Some Questions to Reflect On

What does contentment look like in your life today?

When was the last time you allowed yourself to feel it fully— without guilt?

Which of these small shifts could help you overcome perfectionism and embrace "good enough" with peace?

Photo by Leo Patrizi

Here's to finding satisfaction in where we are, while still becoming who we're meant to be.

Namaste,

Team LSF

Originally written by Tian Philson. Co-authored and edited by Emma Blessing.