There are many people in recovery who are so-called perfectionists. You might be one of them. You strive to have everything in your life in order. You set a very high standard for everything you do from cleaning the house to having the oil changed in your car or truck at the correct mileage. There’s nothing wrong with being a perfectionist. It can, however inhibit other areas of your life. There comes a time when there’s a choice of doing something to perfection or going to watch your daughter or son’s soccer game.
In recovery you may be the type of person who follows all of the suggestions to a T. That’s great, but are you learning to have fun? If you are busy striving for perfection at your job, do you stay late to dot all the T’s and I’s? Sure you want to please your boss with the hopes for a promotion, but have you learned about balance? When you strive for perfection what is it you hope to achieve? What are you priorities—work, program, any playtime?
There may be feelings deep inside that charge you with the task of being as perfect as you can. Ask yourself what part of you is the driving force behind perfectionism. When you were a little kid, did you try to do everything perfectly so Mom or Dad wouldn’t yell at you? It’s important to ask these types of questions to obtain clarity and to set yourself free. Therapy can help, too.
People who have an addiction may have been caught in a web of never being enough. They may strive to be perfect to fill the painful gap they feel in their lives. If you strive for perfection there are some things you can do to help ease the stress and move towards a more enjoyable sobriety. Recognize your tendency towards perfectionism. Incorporate into your bank of knowledge that it is alright to make mistakes.
Make friends with your worst critic, yourself. When you set out to achieve a goal, ask yourself if it is realistic. Take a new perspective on things you want. Are they enough? Are you enough? Say yes, yes, yes. Slow down and enjoy the process, whether it is a project, watching your kids grow up, or training your new dog. Consider taking a mindfulness meditation course. Even though you might cringe at the thought, because you can’t bear sitting still, give it a try anyway. You’ll be surprised at how your life will expand in brighter ways.
Cypress Lakes Lodge offers treatment for addiction in a peaceful, remote, oxygen-rich environment. The program encompasses holistic addiction therapy for the mind, body, and soul. The focus is on physical, mental, and emotional well-being by generating the balance of life-enriching treatment, wellness, and healthy, sober, sustainable relationships. Call us to get started: 409-331-2204