I have struggled a lot, in many ways, trying to be perfect, this year. I feel like I have taken the word “perfectionist” to a whole new level, and by no means do I mean that in a good way. So much so that it had made me everything but perfect. For example, instead of just getting things done, I would put them off or even not get them done at all because I couldn’t get them to my version of perfection. Instead of just doing assignments I would wait until I thought I had the perfect idea and then work on it, but my assignments would be late causing me to fall behind and be docked points anyways no matter how great they were. 

Even though I don’t receive bad comments from others, my brain creates them. While observing  others, I would try to better myself compared to them, instead of comparing my present self to my old self and the things I’ve accomplished and worked through.

 Last semester Mrs. Wilson noticed my struggle while helping me with an essay, and wrote me a note saying “You are amazing just as you are and neither you nor your writing need to be perfect. In fact, there is no such thing as “perfect.” Be you, which is wonderful!!” Since then I have kept the note with me… Since then I have decided that my new motto in life will be “enough.” 

By “enough” I don’t mean the bare minimum or that I should lower my standards and never overachieve; I mean that I need to know that I am enough just as I am. 

Enough putting things off. Enough comparing. Enough Perfection.

In 2022 I need to focus on myself. Follow my own style, my own definition of perfection, whether that is in my writing or any other aspect of life.  Making myself happy, listening to my heart instead of following others direction or opinion. 

So, this year I want to make positive changes that make ME happy, not changes that I think will satisfy OTHERS. 

Reminding myself that I am enough and focussing less on what others think will help me create better success and make better, more memorable memories because I won’t be worried about others or the “norm.”