Embracing Imperfection

It's time to talk about perfectionism. We've all been there, right? Trying so hard to reach these sky-high standards that we think shield us from criticism. But here's the thing: it's a trap.

I used to think being a perfectionist meant nailing everything—perfect look, perfect performance, no room for error. Turns out, it's more about setting impossible standards for ourselves, leading to guilt, shame, and feeling inadequate. It's about suffocation and not about growth and learning. It's a nasty cycle that chips away at our self-worth.

Imagine this: we construct this shield against criticism, but inside, there's this tough judge expecting flawlessness. And when life tosses inevitable curveballs or when we hear feedback, it feels like arrows piercing our hearts.

Here's the twist: even aiming for perfection isn't fail-safe. Mistakes and failures are part of the journey. I have this friend, a yoga buddy. When she fails or stumbles, she laughs. Me? I tend to get frustrated with myself. What's the point? If I'm always irritated with myself why would I want to practice? Practicing with my buddy and hearing her giggles, I start to giggle. She reminds me—it's not about perfection, it's about trying, doing, and having fun. And I enjoy practicing why do I want to tarnish that experience?

🧡 Here's the deal: Being kinder to yourself? It makes you a better interpreter. It makes work more enjoyable. It allows learning from slip-ups.

Our job is so complicated! And a lot of it is ...as the title suggests...based on interpretation. The grand majority of interpreters care that they are doing their job superbly, that communication is successful, and that positive relationships are being formed.

You train, you listen, you reflect, you improve, you take workshops, you join practice groups....you do a lot! And still, you are bound to make mistakes! What happens in your brain and body when you make a mistake?

*Do you beat yourself up?

*Do you think the other interpreter is beating you up?

*Are you afraid of your reputation?

*How long after the mistake are you still thinking about it?

A wise interpreter once told me after an assignment that left me self-critical, "This isn't brain surgery. No one is going to die."

Let me be clear, this isn't an excuse for taking on tasks you're not qualified or for recklessness, or for skipping critical reflection post-assignments. It's a perspective check. Beating yourself up for not being perfect is just not helpful at all.

*What is one thing you can do this week and have fun failing at?

*Notice this week what thoughts you have when you make a mistake.

*What can you say to yourself to put a halt to those self-critical thoughts? If your friend did the same thing, would you choose such harsh words?

If perfectionism or self-inflicted stress weighs on your shoulders, reply to this email, I'm here to help you break free from that perfect trap. ✨