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Why I've Stopped Trying to Always "Do My Best"



I saw an Instagram post today that was written by a therapist who was encouraging her followers to stop trying to be perfect and just do their "best."


I get what she's trying to say and I appreciate the intent, but honestly, isn't the phrase "do your best" really just another perfectionistic platitude?



When I hear the words "do your best," my brain happens to obsess over all the mistakes I still make, even as I'm trying to live a values-driven life.


There are many times I still say or do things without thinking, even when I "should" know better.


I am human and don't always do my "best."


Show me someone who does.


I don't think they exist.


I grew up in a religion that DRILLED the concept of "always do your best" so hard into me that I am just now, in my mid-forties, starting to unravel the negative ways it has effected my well-being.


This doesn't mean that I don't want to do better and try to be aware of ways I can improve.


I do want to step back and reflect on how I want to show up in the world in ways that are aligned with my values,


I want to be aware.


I want to improve.


I want to reflect.


I want to mindfully correct.


But I will not always do my best.


It's just not going to happen, which is perfectly fine by me.


Lots of love,




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