Perfection Doesn't Exist

I was working with a client today, and she fell into the trap of wanting to be perfect. It got me thinking.

The term perfection comes from the Greek meaning rendered "perfect" in most English translations is τέλειοι (téleioi), the same word used in the Septuagint for תָּמִים (tamím) and meaning "brought to its end, finished; lacking nothing necessary to completeness.

Sorry, perfection doesn't exist. Sure there are artificial measures that people use in games that are considered perfection, like bowling a perfect 300 or pitching a no-hitter but let's face it; it doesn't apply to the real world.

Can we define what is a perfect person, spouse, manager, or child? No, we can't; perfection is always subjective, but it separates us and allows us to make choices.

We all are works in progress; there is no one size fits all. Can we move towards more competence, self-development, or other goals? Yes, but it takes effort and the development of the right habits.

My client is developing the habits that will move her forward towards her goals. She is learning to listen to others but also is listening to the clear voice within herself. That is a task we all must face.