In order to go on living one must try to escape the death involved in perfectionism.
What's the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: This quote serves as a reminder that the pursuit of perfection can be detrimental to our well-being. Perfectionism often leads to unrealistic expectations, resulting in constant disappointment and self-criticism. This relentless pursuit can hinder our ability to appreciate our accomplishments and cause us to lose sight of what truly matters. To live a fulfilling life, it's important to accept our imperfections and embrace the idea that we are constantly evolving. By doing so, we free ourselves from the shackles of perfectionism and open ourselves up to growth, learning, and self-compassion.
Who said the quote?
The quote "In order to go on living one must try to escape the death involved in perfectionism." was said by Hannah Arendt (Bio / Quotes). Hannah Arendt was a German philosopher and political theorist who is best known for her work on totalitarianism and the nature of power.
What's the quote's message?
This quote delves into the concept of perfectionism and its potential negative impact on our lives. It suggests that in order to truly live and thrive, one must strive to liberate themselves from the detrimental effects of perfectionism.
Perfectionism is the relentless pursuit of flawlessness and setting excessively high standards for oneself. While striving for excellence can be motivating, perfectionism often leads to feelings of constant dissatisfaction, self-criticism, and an unending cycle of striving for an unattainable ideal. It can hinder personal growth, erode self-esteem, and create unnecessary stress and anxiety.
The quote conveys that perfectionism can be likened to a form of death, as it robs individuals of the joy and fulfillment that can be found in embracing imperfections and accepting oneself as flawed yet uniquely valuable. By fixating on an unachievable standard, one becomes trapped in a state of perpetual dissatisfaction, unable to fully appreciate and enjoy life's experiences.
To "escape the death involved in perfectionism" implies the need to break free from the shackles of unrealistic expectations and embrace a more compassionate and forgiving attitude toward oneself. It encourages individuals to shift their focus from unattainable perfection to personal growth, self-acceptance, and the pursuit of meaningful goals.
The underlying message of this quote is that true fulfillment and a vibrant existence come from embracing imperfections, learning from failures, and nurturing a healthy balance between striving for improvement and appreciating the journey. By letting go of the stifling grip of perfectionism, individuals can experience a renewed sense of freedom, self-compassion, and a deeper connection with the richness of life.
Is there a historical example that illustrates the message of the quote?
One historical example that illustrates the message behind this quote is the life and work of Leonardo da Vinci, the renowned Italian artist, scientist, and polymath of the Renaissance era.
Leonardo da Vinci was known for his incredible artistic talent and his pursuit of perfection in his artworks. He dedicated extensive time and effort to achieve meticulous precision and attention to detail in his paintings, such as "The Last Supper" and the "Mona Lisa." However, his pursuit of perfection often led to delays and a sense of dissatisfaction with his own creations.
Despite his exceptional talent, Leonardo da Vinci struggled with completing many of his projects due to his perfectionistic tendencies. For instance, he left numerous works unfinished, including the famous mural "The Battle of Anghiari," which he started but never completed. His pursuit of perfection became a burden that prevented him from fully realizing his artistic vision.
In this example, Leonardo da Vinci's life demonstrates the notion that perfectionism can become a form of self-imposed limitation, inhibiting progress and hindering personal fulfillment. While striving for excellence is admirable, an excessive emphasis on perfection can lead to dissatisfaction, anxiety, and a sense of unattainability. It can hinder one's ability to enjoy the journey and appreciate the accomplishments along the way.
The quote suggests that in order to truly live and thrive, one must break free from the constraints of perfectionism. By embracing imperfections and understanding that flaws are a part of the human experience, individuals can find greater satisfaction, growth, and happiness. Leonardo da Vinci's struggle with perfectionism serves as a historical reminder of the importance of balancing high standards with the ability to let go, embrace imperfections, and find fulfillment in the process rather than solely focusing on achieving a flawless outcome.
Chief Editor
Tal Gur is an author, founder, and impact-driven entrepreneur at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own daring design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 major life goals around the globe. His journey and most recent book, The Art of Fully Living, has led him to found Elevate Society.
