Confessions of a Crippling Perfectionist: You Aren’t Alone

3 Ways to Lighten the Load When Life Feels Heavy - From A Friend Who Cares

Today, I felt a pull to write to you - yes, you, with the phone in your hand and a million thoughts racing in your head. I want to talk about something that's been weighing on my heart a lot lately.

Have you ever had one of those days (or weeks, or even months) where everything just feels...off? Where no matter how hard you try, your home doesn't look like those picture-perfect posts on social media, and your routines seem to crumble faster than a cookie in a toddler's hand? Yeah, me too.

The pressure from society today can often leave us feeling isolated in our current circumstances as it whispers over our shoulder, with each scroll, “Everyone’s got it together but you.” 😔

And the sad part is, a lot of us believe that.

You know, even as someone who breathes organization and swears by color-coded calendars, there are days when I feel like I'm playing a game of Jenga with my life, and one wrong move could bring everything tumbling down. Last week, I found myself staring at a pile of laundry that seemed to mock me, and a to-do list that was anything but done.

But you know what? That's okay.

As a crippling perfectionist who’s internal voice is my biggest bully, it took me a long time (and a lot of therapy) to get comfortable with believing that — it is okay, and the world won’t in fact end if I sit down on the couch for more than 30 minutes or if my laundry is overflowing onto the floor at the end of the day.

Here's what I've learned: organization isn't about perfection; it's about making space for what truly matters.

If you're feeling overwhelmed, like you're always playing catch-up with an invisible standard, please remember: you're not alone, and I want to offer a helping hand.

Here are my three favorite “go-to” tips that get me back on track with life:

1. Empty Your Brain: Take five minutes to jot down everything swirling in your head. Don't worry about order or priority – just spill it all out. Once it’s on paper, it’s easier to see what's a 'must' and what's a 'maybe later.' You’re not juggling balls of fire; it's okay to let some drop for now.

2. Toss It in the Box: Grab a box or a basket and do a five-minute sweep of your space. Scoop up anything that's out of place and put it in your 'reset box.' It's not about perfect organization; it’s about clearing the space for a clear mind. Then, take a deep breath. Remember, this isn't defeat; it's a strategic pause.

3. The Ten-Minute Fix: Pick one small area - maybe it's that desk clutter or the pile of mail. Set a timer for ten minutes and just start. You'd be amazed at what you can accomplish. It's not about perfection; it's about progress.

In a society that idolizes the unattainable, it's rebellious to embrace our beautifully imperfect lives. So, here's to embracing the mess, finding joy in the little things, and remembering that our worth isn't measured by our productivity or the aesthetics of our homes.

You're doing amazing, even on the days it doesn't feel like it.

And on days when it feels too much? I'm here, spilling my coffee and picking up toys right alongside you.

Cheering you on always — 

Your friend, Em

P.S. Remember, you’re enough for who you are, not what you do. 💖