Authentic Imperfection

Article that appeared in The New Leaf ™.

I recently wrote to a client, "One reason I love my work is that it does move me to compassion, and experiencing compassion with others on a regular basis softens the harshness with which I often relate to myself. Every time I experience the authentic compassionate movement of my heart I invite myself on some level to let myself be imperfect. Guess that's my goal: authentic imperfection!"

Authentic imperfection. What a great way to think about that scary thing: the unvarnished, less-than-perfect reality of who I am right here, right now. In soft light of self acceptance I grow instead of striving and unfold instead of hiding. I drop the veneer of effortful accomplishment and--whoosh!--there goes the burden of needing to be more than I am.

This vision of being enough is elusive sometimes. As my work grows and prospers, I can confuse the budding energy of a budding plant with external imperatives to impress or perform. Even here, authentic imperfection says, "If you really want to shine, show 'em your tarnish!" (OR: "Add one more metaphor and stir!")

Be nice to yourself (it's the only one you have) and have a great week!