Life Quote by Chris Crutcher
““It's easy to look back and say if things had been perfect, I could have accommodated all of those things into my life. But as a therapist I do not allow that word to be uttered in my office after the first session, because I believe the only reason for the existence of that word is to make us feel bad. It's the only word in the language (that I know of) that is defined in common usage by what can't be. It sets a vague standard that can't be met because it is never truly characterized. I prefer to think that we're all out here doing our best under the circumstances, looking at our world through the only eyes through which we can look at it: our own.””
About This Quote
Source Interview: Discussing therapeutic practice, date unknown
The quote warns against using the word “perfect” as a benchmark, arguing it creates unattainable standards and harms self‑esteem; instead, it encourages accepting effort within real circumstances.
In simple terms: Avoid using “perfect” as a goal; accept effort and context.
Key Takeaway
Focus on realistic standards and self‑compassion.
Themes
self‑esteem
therapy
realism
Mood
reflective
empathetic
Type
advice
philosophical
When to use this quote
- counseling sessions
- personal goal setting
- team leadership
- creative projects
- educational settings
Key Concepts
perfectionism
self‑compassion
expectations
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you define success without invoking perfection?
- What alternative standards can guide growth?
A Different Perspective
Perfection can motivate improvement, but may also cause paralysis or chronic dissatisfaction.
![“Before we had our becoming here, we existed There, men other than now; we were pure souls. Intelligence inbound with the entire of reality, not fenced off, integral to that All. [...] Then it was as if One voice sounded. One word was uttered and from every side an ear attended and received and…” quote by Plotinus](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/663/plotinus-12599_becoming_before-we-had-our-becoming-here-we-exist_3148170.jpg)
