NEM 220507 - Perfection and Pain

Welcome to Never-Ending Musings! A weekly collection of thoughts from SK Kage.

Once again, I endeavor to explain a quizzical thought imprinted in my mind through happenstance. Part of my career involves creating content. Sometimes written; sometimes visual; and sometimes not. Regardless, I remind myself that my goal is not to develop an idealized version of whatever topic is at hand, nor to chase the last vestiges of a complete and inviolate theory. Nay, the phrase I keep near and dear to my heart is 'Perfection is the enemy of the good.'
However, this phrase sparked a entirely separate line of thinking: what happens when you chase perfection? Mulling this question over, I decided to start with a most-likely-flawed premise:
The greatest pains are inflicted by those who seek perfection.
Everyone's sphere of influence is unique, so let us begin with a small scale. When an individual demands perfection of themself, does it not generate a nagging, biting internal voice dragging them low? Does it not heighten the pang of guilt when a flaw is discovered? Invariably, there is crestfallen disappointment in falling short of your unattainable goal. Each person's concept of 'perfection' is unique, but I posit only hubris-laden narcissists ever truly believe they created something 'perfect.'
The self-inflicted pain of the never-ending road to perfection seems a path of wanton negativity. I traveled the road and it led to depression (and to the ditch of broken glass just beyond its edge).
Even so, consider the large scale and its fearsome effects on human history. Leaders hungry for the perfect empire, the perfect race, or the perfect religion ignited wars killing millions. Institutions halt progress under the mistaken belief some time in the past was 'perfect' and must be brought about again, undoing humanity's march forward. I struggle to fully understand the mental state of those who push for such regression.
Thus, I say this: divorce yourself from the idea that perfection is equivalent to flawless. If you are to seek perfection, seek flaws you find beautiful, mistakes that charm, and unpolished facets bestowing character. Better yourself, find improvement, but do not idealize 'perfect.'
- SK

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