Anxious because I want to be perfect

Summuary

1. Introduction

• Definition of perfectionism
• Perfectionesm creates self-doubt, anxiety, and fear of failure.
• Creativity: a tool to embrace imperfections and cultivate self-compassion.

2. Understanding the Perfectionism Trap

• Signs of perfectionism in daily life and creativity.
• How does perfectionism stifles self-expression and joy?
• The link between perfectionism, self-worth, and fear of judgment.

3. How Creativity Encourages Self-Compassion

• Art as a space for freedom and self-acceptance.
• The role of mistakes in creativity and how they lead to growth.
• Stories or examples of artists who embrace imperfection.

4. Practical Creative Exercises for Letting Go

• Messy Art Challenge: Create something without a plan and embrace mistakes.
• Blind Contour Drawing: Draw without looking at the paper to release control.
• Intuitive Painting: Use colors and brushstrokes based on feelings, not perfection.
• Rip & Recreate Collage: Tear old artwork or magazines and create something new.

5. Shifting Your Mindset: From Criticism to Self-Kindness

• Replace harsh self-criticism with curiosity and playfulness.
• The power of self-affirmations while creating art.
• Viewing creativity as a journey, not a destination.

.How perfectionisme creates self-doubt?

This relentless pursuit of perfection can make us afraid to take risks, experiment, or express ourselves freely. The fear of making mistakes or being judged can hold us back, leaving us feeling stuck, unworthy, and disconnected from our true selves. Over time, this self-imposed pressure drains creativity and prevents us from experiencing joy in the process of creation.

Do you recognise yourself ?

.But what if imperfection wasn’t something to fear, but something to embrace?

Creativity offers a powerful way to break free from perfectionism and nurture self-compassion. When we allow ourselves to create without rigid expectations—whether through painting, drawing, writing, or any artistic form—we open the door to self-acceptance. Art teaches us that mistakes can lead to new discoveries, that beauty can be found in the unexpected, and that our worth is not defined by flawless results, but by the courage to express ourselves.

I share exercices and tips on instagram, click here and follow me

.Signs of perfectionism in daily life and creativity

Perfectionism often sneaks into both daily life and creative pursuits, showing up as an intense fear of making mistakes, procrastination, or an inability to feel satisfied with one's work. It can manifest in small ways—rewriting an email multiple times, hesitating to start a painting, or spending hours on minor details that may not even be noticed by others. In creative spaces, perfectionists may avoid trying new techniques, afraid of producing something “imperfect.” Instead of embracing the learning process, they set unrealistically high standards that lead to frustration and self-doubt. Over time, this pressure can turn even the most enjoyable activities into sources of stress.

.How perfectionism stifles self-expression and joy

By striving for flawlessness, perfectionists often block their own self-expression. Creativity is meant to be an open, exploratory process, yet perfectionism forces it into a rigid set of rules. Instead of allowing emotions and intuition to flow freely onto a canvas, a piece of writing, or a dance routine, perfectionists second-guess every step, fearing that their work isn’t "good enough." This robs them of the joy of creating and keeps them stuck in a loop of constant self-criticism. When the focus is only on achieving a perfect result rather than enjoying the act of creation, the process loses its magic, and creativity feels more like a burden than an outlet for self-discovery.

.The link between perfectionism, self-worth, and fear of judgment.

At its core, perfectionism is deeply connected to self-worth and the fear of being judged. Many perfectionists equate their value with their achievements, believing that their work must be flawless to be accepted and respected. This mindset creates anxiety, as any imperfection feels like a personal failure rather than a natural part of growth. The fear of judgment—whether from others or from their own inner critic—can become so overwhelming that they avoid taking creative risks altogether.

However, true self-worth isn’t found in perfection but in self-acceptance. By shifting the focus from external validation to personal fulfillment, individuals can begin to break free fom perfectionism and rediscover creativity as a tool for self-love and expression.

.Art as a space for freedom and self-acceptance.

Creativity offers a space where self-acceptance can flourish, free from the rigid expectations of perfectionism. Unlike many aspects of life that demand precision and structure, art welcomes imperfection and individuality. Whether through painting, writing, or music, creative expression allows people to embrace their authentic selves without fear of judgment. The process itself becomes an act of self-care—one where mistakes are not failures but natural steps in exploration. In this space, self-compassion grows as individuals learn to let go of harsh self-criticism and instead focus on the joy of creating without pressure.

.The role of mistakes in creativity and how they lead to growth

Mistakes in creativity are not obstacles; they are opportunities for growth. When an artist accidentally smudges paint on a canvas or a writer deviates from their original plan, these moments can lead to unexpected beauty and innovation. The ability to adapt and transform perceived “errors” into something meaningful teaches resilience and self-trust. This mindset shift—viewing mistakes as part of the journey rather than as shortcomings—translates beyond art into everyday life. By embracing imperfection in their work, individuals also cultivate a more forgiving and compassionate attitude toward themselves.

.The role of mistakes in creativity and how they lead to growth

Many well-known artists have embraced imperfection as a central theme in their work. For example, abstract painter Jackson Pollock's signature drip technique was born from a willingness to break traditional rules and experiment freely. Similarly, Japanese philosophy inspired the art of kintsugi, where broken pottery is repaired with gold, highlighting flaws rather than hiding them. Even in modern creativity, artists like Frida Kahlo turned personal pain into expressive, raw, and imperfect beauty. These examples remind us that true artistry is not about creating something flawless but about expressing truth, vulnerability, and resilience—values that lie at the heart of self-compassion.

.Exercice 2

Another liberating exercise is Blind Contour Drawing, which involves drawing an object without looking at the paper. This technique forces artists to trust their instincts and focus on the subject rather than the accuracy of the lines. The result is often distorted and imperfect, but that is the beauty of the process. It helps to loosen rigid artistic habits and trains the mind to embrace unpredictability, fostering a more relaxed and intuitive approach to creativity.

.Exercice 3

For those who enjoy painting, Intuitive Painting is a wonderful way to express emotions without overthinking. Instead of planning every detail, artists choose colors and brushstrokes based on their feelings in the moment. This method allows for deep emotional release and self-discovery, as the artwork becomes a reflection of inner thoughts and emotions. It teaches artists to trust their instincts and let the creative process unfold naturally, rather than striving for a flawless outcome.

.Exercice 4

Finally, Rip & Recreate Collage is a playful way to repurpose old artwork or magazine clippings into something new. By tearing and reassembling pieces, artists can explore the beauty of transformation and imperfection. This exercise not only encourages creativity but also symbolizes letting go of the past to build something fresh and unexpected. It reinforces the idea that destruction can lead to rebirth, making it a powerful metaphor for personal growth and creative freedom.

• Replace harsh self-criticism with curiosity and playfulness.

Shifting from self-criticism to self-kindness begins with replacing harsh inner dialogue with curiosity and playfulness. Instead of judging mistakes or imperfections, approach them with the mindset of an explorer—wondering what can be learned or discovered. This shift allows for greater creative freedom, as it removes the fear of failure and replaces it with the excitement of experimentation. By treating artistic endeavors as opportunities for growth rather than tests of skill, creativity becomes more enjoyable and less stressful.

• The power of self-affirmations while creating art.

Another powerful tool for fostering self-kindness is the use of self-affirmations while creating art. Positive statements like “I am free to create without judgment” or “Every mistake is part of my artistic growth” can help rewire negative thought patterns. Repeating affirmations before or during the creative process reinforces self-compassion, making it easier to stay motivated and inspired. Over time, these affirmations build confidence and resilience, allowing artists to focus on expressing themselves rather than seeking perfection. I recommand you to use more positive affirmation in your daily life, click here to know why.

.Viewing creativity as a journey, not a destination.

Lastly, viewing creativity as a journey rather than a destination encourages long-term growth and fulfillment. Instead of fixating on achieving a perfect final product, embracing the process itself leads to greater satisfaction. Every brushstroke, sketch, or idea contributes to artistic evolution, making each step valuable. By letting go of rigid expectations and enjoying the act of creating, artists cultivate a mindset of self-kindness, allowing them to appreciate their progress and celebrate their unique artistic voice.

Embracing imperfections in art and life fosters creativity, self-growth, and emotional freedom. By letting go of perfectionism, we open ourselves to new possibilities, allowing mistakes to become stepping stones rather than obstacles. This mindset encourages experimentation, boosts confidence, and nurtures self-compassion. Ultimately, accepting imperfections transforms both the creative process and daily life into a more joyful, fulfilling journey.