Take Smaller Bites
Friday, July 7, 2023
“There was only one perfect human being who completely fulfilled his purpose without detours or failure… So, forgive yourself for your shortcomings, because God certainly has. It’s part of the journey. God makes even your shortcomings bring glory to Him.” – Os Hillman
For people battling alcoholism, there is AA, otherwise known as Alcoholics Anonymous. For those struggling with drug dependency, there are NA (Narcotics Anonymous) meetings for them to attend. The same goes for gamblers and Gamblers Anonymous (GA).
There is even a Christian version of the above groups called CR, short for Celebrate Recovery. It also has a 12-Step Program (and 8 Principles), but instead of referring to a “higher power,” CR acknowledges God as that ultimate authority.
But what about people who struggle with perfectionism? Is there a group called Perfectionists Anonymous or PA? And if not, why not?
My guess is that there are millions of people worldwide who struggle with perfectionism. Driven by a desire to achieve excellence in every area of their lives, they can become disillusioned and despondent when they invariably fall short. Soon, depression and self-hate set in as they chastise themselves for their failure to attain the unattainable.
Setting goals is admirable and striving for excellence is to be commended. However, there is only one Person in human history who achieved true perfection and He was divine. Only Jesus never sinned and only Jesus never failed. And guess what, my friend? You and I aren’t Jesus!
So, my advice, from one perfectionist to another, is to set high standards for yourself but to give yourself permission to fall short… again and again. Better yet, establish reachable goals and then, once they are attained, raise the bar incrementally. That way, you are constantly moving forward, but not biting off more than you – or anyone but Jesus – can possibly chew.
“…for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” Romans 3:23 (NKJV)
“As it is written: “There is none righteous, no, not one…” Romans 3:10 (NKJV)
- Rev. Dale M. Glading, President
