Introduction:
This is a very old quote, “Perfection consists not in doing extraordinary things, but in doing ordinary things extraordinarily well.”
This brings us to the question as to what is perfection and what are the means to achieving it. Perfection is a relative term. The quality that might be perfect for you would not necessarily be, for the person living next door. Thus, we can say that perfection is a perception that people spend their lifetime striving to achieve.
Definition of perfection:
There is no clear definition of perfection. Perfection is like silence. You feel that everything is silent because you are unable to hear anything. However, there are sounds beyond the hearing capacity of the man. In a similar way, when you feel that you have achieved perfection, you see a shift in the borders. Thus, we can say perfection is elusive.
We have stated earlier that perfection is a relative term. Our mind decides what is perfect and what is not. Now, you know, our mind itself is a limited entity. Hence, the question could arise that how an imperfect entity such as the mind decides as to what is perfection. Thus, perfection is something that is beyond the capacity of the mind. This brings us to the conclusion that perfection is a state of awareness. It is like our shadow. It is always there with us. It is futile chasing it. The more you chase it, the more it will elude you. If you remain unmoved, it will be there with you. Perfection is something just like that.
Is it possible to achieve perfection?
In a literal sense, everyone is perfect in his or her own way. However, the human mind is such that it tries to please others as much as it tries to please itself. This brings us to the aspect of perfection or imperfection. In that sense, you can only strive to achieve perfection. You may have to make exemplary sacrifices in order to make the attempt. We shall now look into this aspect as well. We shall call these sacrifices as the qualities one should try to achieve while striving for perfection.
Acceptance: We should learn to accept that we are not perfect in every way. You might find that there are people who would be better than you are in that particular aspect.
Fearlessness: When we use the word fearlessness, we mean that we should not fear failure. We have to overcome failure at every step before trying to achieve perfection.
Truthfulness: You have to be true to yourself as well as to the world around you. This would entail you to imbibe qualities such as honesty, integrity.
Knowledge: Naturally, you cannot achieve perfection without having the requisite knowledge of the subject. You should remember that if you have to achieve perfection, you would have to be more knowledgeable than anyone is. You should become the point of reference for all.
Patience: This is a great virtue to have, under any circumstances. While developing the virtue of patience, you have to cross many hurdles where you may have to display qualities such as generosity, forgiveness, as well as compassion.
Non-attachment: Striving for perfection in a particular activity would entail you to detach yourself from the surroundings. You may have to overcome your desires as well.
Adaptability: While you strive to achieve perfection, you may have to change your way of thinking. The person who can adapt to these changes has a greater chance of success.
Conclusion:
You should accept the reality that you can have control over every action of yours. However, you would never be able to have any control over the fruits of the action. This reality should dawn on you. Then, you have won half the battle.
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