PURSUIT OF PERFECTION
Generally speaking, it can be observed, that when evaluating the subject of the Pursuit of Perfection, there are three ideologies. These are: -
1. Those who believe that Perfection can be achieved, usually resulting in narcissistic tendencies and convincing themselves that they are indeed, Perfect.
2. Those who believe Perfection cannot be achieved, however, strive consciously in the fruitless Pursuit of Perfection.
3. Those who believe Perfection cannot be achieved and conduct themselves according to this ostensibly cynical outlook.
Those who believe Perfection can exist and is attainable, unknowingly embark on the unconsciously irrational journey of narcissistic self-justification. The arrogance implicit within the ideology that Perfection is attainable steers people towards the inevitability of believing themselves to be Perfect. This can be attributed to the intrinsic human emotion of pride. If you are of the belief that Perfection is attainable, then one is highly unlikely to admit that they are unable to achieve this. It takes significant humbling to materialise an ideology so sought after and admit it is achievable, only then to concede that it is unachievable for yourself. Therefore, this person is likely to resort to irrational self-justification and an elaborate propagandisation scheme, with the sole purpose of, to themselves, achieving Perfection.
Those who understand and are conscious in the belief that Perfection is unachievable, embark on a vastly different journey. They embark on the eternally futile journey towards Perfection, knowing they will never reach their destination. Although on face-value, this seems to be a quite cynical outlook on life, it is in reality, a beautiful, fulfilling philosophy. By striving to become closer and closer to Perfection, one incurs the collateral benefit of bettering themselves in the process. This can somewhat be encapsulated by the cliché, “aim for the moon and you will land amongst the stars”. It should be noted that everyone has differing perspectives of what Perfection entails. For some it may monetary, behavioural, or even achievement based. Considering this, we should refrain from any exercise of arrogance in applying a universal definition. Perfection is a tailor-made, individualistic ideology. Regardless of your definition of Perfection, the practice of striving towards its attainment whilst also staying clear-minded in its unattainable nature, produces the most satisfactory outcome.
Those who understand that Perfection is unattainable and act accordingly to this seemingly pessimistic expression, embark on a journey that is doused in cynicism and concession. Although it may be truthful, the concession that Perfection is unattainable and therefore the question, why pursue it?, not only amounts to complacency, but also to self-harm. This leads to a hindrance upon one’s own development and deprives wider society of a ‘better’ individual. The conduct of conceding and capitulating to the unattainability of Perfection is an entirely selfish and constrictive manoeuvre.
Together, we should all embark upon the eternally futile Pursuit of Perfection.
