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Art Quote by Suzanne Rivecca

“The San Francisco therapist kept telling me I shouldn’t be terrified of creative experimentation. “I don’t know what’s going to come out of me,” I told her. “It has to be perfect. It has to be irreproachable in every way.” “Why?” she said. “To make up for it,” I said. “To make up for the fact that…” quote by Suzanne Rivecca
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““The San Francisco therapist kept telling me I shouldn’t be terrified of creative experimentation. “I don’t know what’s going to come out of me,” I told her. “It has to be perfect. It has to be irreproachable in every way.” “Why?” she said. “To make up for it,” I said. “To make up for the fact that it’s me.””

Suzanne Rivecca

About This Quote

Source Essay: "The Fear of Perfection", 2021

She reveals a therapist’s advice that fear of imperfection stems from deeper self‑acceptance issues, not artistic ability.

In simple terms: Perfectionism is a mask for self‑doubt.

Key Takeaway

Accept imperfection to grow creatively.

Themes

self‑acceptance creativity psychology

Mood

introspective motivational

Type

self‑help philosophical

When to use this quote

  • writing
  • painting
  • music composition
  • performance art

Key Concepts

perfectionism self‑esteem therapy artistic block

Questions to Reflect On

  • Why do you equate perfection with worth?
  • What small imperfect step can you take today?
A Different Perspective

Perfectionism can still drive high standards, risking burnout.

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