3. Imperfection

Imperfections

Today I wanted to talk to you about our imperfections.

I am one hell of a perfectionist. I want everything perfect, and if I see something that does not qualify as perfection, I can be very hard on myself.

Now imagine this: sometimes it is okay to be imperfect. It is okay for us to learn, and grow. It is okay that not everyone loves what you do.

When I was younger my teachers would say that I was dumb. I tried so hard! I read more than any other kid in the class. I took homework home while nobody else had to. For years I believed them. That is, until I found out I have dyslexia. I was not dumb, I just had to find a different way of learning!

So for the years that followed I worked my butt off. I ended up graduating community college and then continued studying. I graduated my bachelor not only top of my class, but as the only member of my class!

I worked hard. I did everything in my power to get out of the stigma I was placed in.

And then, then it all crashed. I had worked so very hard, that I forgot to take a step back once in a while. I forgot it was okay to sometimes take care of yourself, instead of always working.

I realized that I could not handle my imperfections, so I worked on them. But I worked on them in an unhealthy amount.

Let me tell you this. If we always magnify our imperfections, we will never enjoy our winnings. We will never see our improvements We will never cheer ourselves on. We will only see the things that still need change.

So take a step back. Try that hobby you have been wanting to try, but are terrified at. Give yourself a moment to see what you want, what you need!

For me, writing a book has been the most terrifying thing I have ever done. It has been heartbreaking, uplifting, horrifying, amazing and most of all, a great learning experience.

I did something I never imagined I could do. Did I do it perfectly? Oh heck no. I find flaws in my own writing every day. I think of ways I could have done better every night in bed. But I still allowed myself to go for it. Because in that time, in that place, I had given it my all. I had given it my best. I knew it was not perfect. But, Harry Potter was not perfect for many editions! J

Now, I can learn from the little (spelling?) mistakes I made. I can grow. And then, one day, when I finish my series I will start all over. Perfecting my work. Making it better.

For now, enjoy my imperfect book. Enjoy my little mistakes. It has been a work of love. A work of imperfection, and I am proud of that.

Love, Kim