Giving Up Our Quest For Perfection

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The desire for perfection is an element of many psychological issues such as OCD, anxiety, and depression.

We might strive for perfect certainty, the transformation of our character flaws, betterment of a situation, or even spiritual attainment. Whatever external perfection we aim for, it is a source of suffering as the target is forever illusive.

A Different Perfection

Yet, there are times - when the mind is quiet and the body relaxed - that we experience unexpected moments of perfection. These moments have nothing to do with circumstance, how well things are going, or how we have performed. Something beyond our daily concerns shines through the gap between our thoughts, and we enjoy an awareness of perfection.

This internal encounter with perfection implies that perfection exists beyond our everyday concerns, and that we cannot achieve it—but only get out of its way.

“Perfection is as elusive as silence,” says meditation, and Ayurveda teacher Roger Gabriel. However, we can open ourself to it by learning to accept each moment as it arrives. Moments may not bring what we want, expect, or interpret as being good, but struggling against what they bring is an exercise in futility.

We can also practice some type of meditation (e.g., mindfulness, transcendental, guided) so the mind is less muddied by a constant whirlpool of thought. The quieter our mind, the more opportunity for the perfection that is beyond understanding to shine through.

Cultivating Perfection Awareness

Although internally sensed perfection is not easily described, it has an expansive quality associated with fearlessness and love. This implies we can cultivate its presence, and let go of external perfection, by being open and practicing:

  • Truthfulness: say what we mean, and mean what we say.
  • Generosity: give from a sense of abundance and live with gratitude.
  • Non-attachment: desire what we will but stay detached from the outcome.
  • Forgiveness: release the resentment that disturbs peace of heart and mind.
  • Compassion: treat others with respect.
  • Patience: realize others are not here to meet our personal expectations.

Letting go of external perfection might also require the assistance of a caring professional. Sometimes our fear of uncertainty or personal lack is so great we need help loosening our grip on them. Then, as fears subside, we may begin to notice a perfection that already exists.

“Perfection is in the silent spaces between things—the spaces between our thoughts, our breaths, or the stillness of a yoga pose. When you begin to recognize the spaces, you’ll recognize the perfection. Make space and time in your life for the perfection to shine through.” ~ Roger Gabriel

Source: Chopra
Photo credit: Coconino Natl Forest

 
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