Perfectionist vs. Good Enoughist
#22
There are some things I can live with (like dust and leftovers for supper and unfolded laundry) and some that I need to at leasttry to make better (like that corner where two--or more-HST's meet that just isn't quite right on a quilt that is being gifted to a family member or QOV or...) but only to a certain extent. If it really bothers me I try up to 3 times. At that point number 3 is the way it stays. Period.
My biggest hurdle is colour coordination. I spend more time auditioning and second guessing myself on which fabrics to put together than I do in scrutinizing my intersections. I am really really trying to make my choices and just live with them.
My biggest hurdle is colour coordination. I spend more time auditioning and second guessing myself on which fabrics to put together than I do in scrutinizing my intersections. I am really really trying to make my choices and just live with them.
#23
I'm with zozee. I try to produce an excellent product, but perfection is out of the question. And "good enough" does sound like mediocre to my ears. That said, sometimes I do have to admit that I'm not going to do it any better on the 4th (or 29th) try, and I might as well move on. That frustrates me, but I'm not losing any sleep over it.
#24
Super Member
Join Date: Nov 2008
Location: Seacoast New Hampshire
Posts: 1,181
What does that word even mean? I think there is a difference between wanting to have things the way that makes you feel accomplished and being over-particular. If you feel better when your appliances are lined up and your clothes are hung 1" apart, then go for it, as long as that stays with you and you don't project that onto others in your household. Some things I like certain ways and I don't understand why others don't but I have to live with me and them so I try to "control" my own things and if I don't want water spots on the bathroom mirror two seconds after I clean it, I wipe them off instead of dragging the offender back in to wipe it down or yelling at them for it. It just makes more sense, takes less time and is emotionally healthier for both of us.
As far as sewing, I do the best I can with my skill set and of course, the more I do it the more confident I become. Sometimes I'll rip out 4" for one stitch and sometimes I'll just "whatever" it away. I do what I do to make me feel good about what I am doing, in things that I am doing myself - cooking, cleaning, ironing, dishes, laundry, yard work. Some days I care more than others and some days I let it all go, order pizza for us and chill.
So I guess it's up to you. It's like they say, don't let anyone make you feel bad for being you. Or, pick your own nits. Or, just go with it.
As far as sewing, I do the best I can with my skill set and of course, the more I do it the more confident I become. Sometimes I'll rip out 4" for one stitch and sometimes I'll just "whatever" it away. I do what I do to make me feel good about what I am doing, in things that I am doing myself - cooking, cleaning, ironing, dishes, laundry, yard work. Some days I care more than others and some days I let it all go, order pizza for us and chill.
So I guess it's up to you. It's like they say, don't let anyone make you feel bad for being you. Or, pick your own nits. Or, just go with it.
#29
Super Member
Join Date: Nov 2010
Posts: 1,568
I'm the perfectionist in almost everything I do, my house is always clean, nothing on my kitchen counters, no knick knacks anywhere. Nothing out of place, this is how I've always been. No clutter, everything has a place and gets put away. Luckily my husband is the same way. When it comes to sewing, yes I like my stitches to be even, everything has to line up, etc., I strive for perfection in everything I do. What is perfect to me may not be perfect for anyone else. It's in the eye of the beholder.
#30
Super Member
Join Date: Feb 2011
Location: Yorkville, IL
Posts: 7,639
I try to do my best and I think I continue to expand my quilting ability but I won’t stress over it. It is my hobby and it gives me joy. I believe in “ live and let live”. My house is moderately clean and neat which suits me and if you were coming over I would hope it was to visit me and not to critique. I laugh at my mistakes and correct what I can. Life is just so much fun!
Jan, I Loved Mary Ellen Hopkins. She was delightful!
Jan, I Loved Mary Ellen Hopkins. She was delightful!
Last edited by QuiltnNan; 06-09-2019 at 06:21 AM. Reason: shouting/all caps
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