Perfectionism- the addiction to trying to meet some imaginary “ideal” standard (spiritual or material) that does not leave room for real & changing conditions within & around us that are often beyond our control- takes away from our aliveness- our ability to be with ourselves or others with an open heart. When we catch ourselves devaluing who we are or what we do, pushing ourselves or others to meet standards that leave no room for humanness, we can gently loosen our grip on our endless trying, sit down, take a breath & tenderly hold the anxiety-ridden striver within. Sometimes we just need to comfort a frightened or hurting part of ourselves that is trying to outrun shame or pain, so that she can take joy once again in the messy beauty of life.

~Oriah Mountain Dreamer