I’ve always thought word perfect was a bit confusing, but I never fully thought about it until I started this series where I collected and wrote about how others view the word. Before I interviewed anyone, I thought of perfection as a subjective word, and after talking to a variety of people, my theory has been confirmed. 

In simple terms, I believe that everything can be perfect…but not to everyone. For example, do I think that my best friend is a perfect human being? No, but is she the perfect best friend for me? Absolutely. Someone or something can be seen as perfect in my eyes, but it won’t be seen the same in someone else’s, and I think that is the way that the word should be applied in people’s lives. 

I believe that everyone should find their own definition of perfection that fits their own life and will be most effective for them. Striving for perfection can be harmful if it is not used in adequate amounts. If perfection is followed too closely, it can hinder one’s ability to perform to the best of their abilities. Students or individuals like me have experienced this first hand. There have been times where I am too attached to the concept of perfection and it has caused disappointment and eventually burn out. This is when striving for perfection can become harmful. However, I have learned, and to be fair I am still learning, to use perfection in a positive way. It should be used as a goal to help push myself to be successful, not an idea that causes me to question my capabilities. 

Striving for perfection and striving for your definition of perfection are two separate concepts and everyone, including myself, should draw the line where it best fits for their life. 

Perfection — a many-sided word. Through the diverse ways people define this word, this is how I view and apply the concept to my life.