
Defeating Perfectionism: Your Creative Work’s True Potential

Perfectionism might sound like a commendable trait, but in the realm of creativity, it can be a crippling hurdle. It sneaks in, wrapped in the guise of ‘doing a great job’, and ensnares artists and designers in a trap of constant revisions, creative paralysis, and a never-ending quest for the unattainable – perfection.
The appeal of imperfection
History is brimming with anecdotes where imperfection became the birthplace of innovation. Take the legendary Black Sabbath guitarist Tony Iommi, whose unique sound sprung from his very ‘flawed’ technique – a technique that ended up defining the essence of heavy metal.
Focus on the Process
It’s about the journey, not just the destination. This ideology is echoed by creatives who believe in spontaneity, experimentation, and progress. Embracing imperfection propels you towards more authentic and fulfilling work.
Practical tips for overcoming perfectionism
- Set time limits: Apply deadlines to your projects to prevent overpolishing.
- Embrace the 90% rule: Give yourself permission to stop when you’ve reached ‘good enough’. Your 100% might be someone else’s 120%.
- Focus on progress, not perfection: Use each piece of work as a stepping stone for improvement.
- Reframe your perspective: Aim to meet client expectations, not your own towering standards.
- Practice self-compassion: Allow yourself to be human; even the most seasoned artists aren’t perfect.
Remember, by releasing the reins of perfectionism, you open the door to greater creativity and a more fulfilling practice. Endless numbers of creators, illustrators, and designers have navigated this path, finding that sometimes, ‘done’ is indeed better than ‘perfect’.
So, take a deep breath, allow your creativity to flourish without the stringent demands of perfectionism, and watch as your authentic work resonates with the vibrancy you’ve always desired.