stop worrying about being perfect

I have no idea how much other people think about this topic of everything must be perfect. To me, it seems to permeate every idea, every interaction, every moment - it could be better, must be a perfect thought, a perfect conversation, a perfect presentation - we all use the words - I'm a type A personality, I must get an A, I must be recognized for my contributions, I must be known as a perfectionist, I have to show everyone how it should be done. My question is a simple WTF? Perfection is the art of the absurd - I'm so exhausted by the silliness of it all - what does it get any of us in the end - an attitude of superiority? a disdain for others? a reputation for exacting standards? A pillar from which to fall when our human failings reveal themselves? Give it up, revel in the imperfections where life exposes its natural wonders. I agree that certain actions and occasions call for exactness, a surgeon, an accountant, a builder, but perfection? Perfection only seems to be used in matters of more abstract ideas, not hard and fast factual events. You must give the perfect present, you must host the perfect party, be the perfect couple, be the perfect family - instead of being the messy host but who enjoys his friends and embraces the moment when his house isn't perfectly neat and tidy.

Some might argue I'm not driven enough to strive for perfection - a slackard - some might say I just don't have the ability to rise above the mediocrity. So be it, if that is the case, perfection will elude me like the pot o gold at the end of a rainbow. Expecting perfection and worrying about the subsequent failure is too draining. I appreciate the grace and beauty of the hair out of place, the last 10 pounds that just won't go away. The world has a place for all of us. As for me, I'm hanging my hat with the imperfectionists - those of us who choose to do better than our best but fall short of perfection. So, while everyone else is seeking the elusive holy grail for momentary and fleeting recognition, I'll be plugging along doing the best I can while grinning my imperfect smile in my imperfect life.