Who needs Perfection?

Three months ago I went to the dentist with some teeth niggles.  The first thing she said was “Let’s see if you brush your teeth properly.”  I instantly giggled and replied “I certainly hope I know how to brush my teeth, I’ve been doing it for over 30 years.”

It wasn’t long before I wished I’d kept my remark to myself, as it seemed my brushing habits were far from supporting my teeth and gums.   The leftover red ointment clearly marked the plaque on my teeth and I was promptly shown the correct way to brush.

That night I followed the Dentist’s advice and I have to say, the new way of brushing wasn’t as easy as it looked.  At times it could be quite awkward and I really needed to focus my attention on what I was doing.  Nevertheless, I did the best I could, often feeling as though I was never going to master it. It wasn’t long before, I had completely forgotten about the new way of brushing until I went back to the dentist on Tuesday.

As soon as I sat down the Dentist said “Ok Natasha, let’s see if you’ve been brushing your teeth properly”.  I squirmed in the chair, certain there wouldn’t be an improvement, kicking myself that I didn’t try harder. I was handed a mirror and sheepishly opened my mouth.  To my amazement there was very little red ointment showing plaque on my teeth.  I couldn’t believe the improvement.  They weren’t perfect but who needs perfection on your first attempt, all that mattered was they had improved.

I felt so proud, a big smile beamed from my face and strangely, I felt like I’d achieved something.  Just then, it dawned on me that there were some wise lessons I could share with Nadine and you, my loyal circle.

1. You are always doing the best you can with the resources you’ve got.  If you want to improve in any area, find someone to teach you what you don’t know

2. New habits aren’t easy to form.  At first, it seems like hard work but with effort, focus and repetition, even the hardest habits can be kicked and new habits become effortless

3. You don’t have to be perfect to make a difference.  By taking, what my Mentor calls ‘Imperfect Action’, you get the ball rolling.  It may not seem like you’re making a difference on the surface but underneath things are changing.  Doing a bit of something imperfectly is much better than doing nothing.  Doing nothings keeps you stagnant and who wants that!

I hope you enjoyed today’s tips, feel free to email me with anything you want to share

Until tomorrow,

Love,

Natasha