Perfectionism, or the need to do something perfectly, has prevented me from starting this blog. I’ve had this blog floating in the internet stratosphere for more than two years. Floating – empty, ignored and desperate for content.
Do you know why it took me two years? Because I was afraid.
I was afraid my writing wouldn’t be perfect, or the images I would use wouldn’t be perfect. That I couldn’t launch it perfectly. You see, I think I might be a perfectionist and that kind of stinks. When you have four kids, or even one for that matter, you can’t always be perfect. And oh how hard we try! It’s exhausting! As a mom of four kids, I’ve worn myself out trying to be perfect and keep up, not necessarily with other moms, but more often just trying to keep up with myself and all the things I want to accomplish in this short life. I want to be more than a mom. Don’t get me wrong. I love my kids and I’m grateful to be a mom, but it doesn’t define all of me. I want to be a writer, maybe even a public speaker, and I don’t want to wait until that perfect “some day” to make a dent into my own dreams. But the need for perfection squashes many people’s dreams, and my desire for it has certainly stalled my own personal blog.
So what better way to check off a New Year’s Resolution than to sit down and do it. So here I am. I’m posting my first blog. It’s not perfect. I don’t have advice to give, or resources to share, or links to send you to. I barely have any content. But, hey, it’s a start and that’s all we have to do sometimes — just start. Or as G.K. Chesterton puts it, “If a thing is worth doing, it is worth doing badly.”
In 2016, let’s do what’s worth doing and do the best we can. Don’t let perfectionism lead you down a rabbit hole of procrastination. There’s nothing perfect about doing absolutely nothing. Here’s to a great year of doing absolutely everything!
Congratulations on your blog! Looking forward to it!
Thanks Charlotte! I’m looking forward to it, too!
Looking forward to reading more. Congrats on your new year and great start with your blog!
Thanks mom! 2016 is going to be a great year! Love you!
I am excited to be reading your awesome stuff again. I remember you writing in college. Glad you are back 🙂
Thanks Coco! Ah yes! My college days and writing. I remember the first day of a writing class I took where the professor said in order to get an A in the class you had to get published. I thought, okay, I’m cool with a B. 🙂 But turns out I did get an A thanks to the Collegiate Insider magazine. I hope I’ve come a long way since then. Thanks for reading!
Wonderful!!! Move forward with complete faith & the Lord will take you there.
Thanks Elizzabeth! Trusting in the Lord everyday and can’t wait to see where He takes me! Thanks for reading!
Loved every thought, word, and heart. Totally resonated with all you shared. Thanks for the encouragement to not just settle with our fear of not getting it just right. I think that’s why I keep not jumping in and getting back into my painting. The only thing I seem to be a perfectionist is in that place of creative release . I don’t want that to keep me from exploring the gift I was given long ago. Thanks for stepping out and pushing past your fears. You’ve encouraged others to do the same!
Thanks for YOUR encouraging words! Sounds like there might be some painting in your near future! What’s that thought…practice makes perfect? You have to start somewhere with your talent. Hope to see your paintings some day! Thanks for reading!
Congrats Bright! Goodness, I can relate:) I’ve realized how my perfectionism can suck so much joy from motherhood. It’s one of 2 big things I want to let go of more this year. Your post is so timely. Keep writing!
Thanks Tamara! You’re an inspiration in both your creative world and in motherhood! Keep up the great work my friend!
Dear sweet Bright!
I am so happy for you & your blog! Your words definitely resonated with me! That is so awesome that you are facing your fear and going for it! I, too, am feeling inspired in this new year! I have started mentoring high school girls in an organization called Young Life. It is definitely pushing me out of my comfort zone and making me fully trust in God! Have a wonderful & blessed New Year!
Love, Christie
Thanks Christie! And great for you for investing in young girls through Young Life! I did YL in high school and the time your putting towards these young women is truly life-changing. Good luck and God bless!
Congratulations! Following your heart always leads to great adventure.
Thanks Greta! I’m excited for the adventure ahead!
Go girl !!!!!!
Thanks Lori!
Congrats! Excited to start reading it!
Thanks Jill!
The advice is rather useful