I've been thinking lately about perfectionism and the concept of challenge. I truly believe perfectionism is a trap and "Perfection equals paralysis," Perfection is the enemy of excellence," and "Real is better than perfect" are true and valid statements. I also believe most people don't challenge themselves nearly enough most of the time and that taking the easy way because other people do it is wrong.

Bob and his brother Bill have been talking about perfectionism while playing with the Frisbee on vacation -- and how Zachary, at five, hit himself in the head and railed when he missed or made a bad throw. Clearly there is excess perfectionism there. And I know that wanting to do well so badly will keep Zachary trying harder than others might and that success is likely to result.

We had a free form challenge in writers' group this week and I chose to write variations on the concept of "challenge" to try to sort out some of my feelings on this topic.

1Challenge (message from childhood)

Challenge yourself.
Don't take the easy road.
Do more than is requested, always.
Stretch. Reject the illusion of limits.
No excuses. No comparisons.
Don't take the easy road.
Challenge yourself.

2 Challenge - (fear speaks back)

Is enough never enough?
Why not choose the easy road?
What if I can't improve, expand?
What if I don't want to?
What if limits are real as air?
Why not choose the easy road?
Is enough never enough?

3 Challenge - Wise woman's intervention

Challenge yourself.
Examine roads. Choose the best fit.
Do what is important, what matters.
Stretch. Reach. Accept limits.
No excuses. No comparisons. Self knowledge.
Examine roads. Choose the best fit.
Challenge yourself.