I recently wrote to a client, “One reason I love my work is that it does move me to compassion, and experiencing compassion with others on a regular basis softens the harshness with which I often relate to myself. Every time I experience the authentic compassionate movement of my heart I invite myself on some level to let myself be imperfect. Guess that’s my goal: authentic imperfection!”
Authentic imperfection. What a great way to think about that scary thing: the unvarnished, less-than-perfect reality of who we are right here, right now. In soft light of self acceptance we can grow instead of striving and unfold instead of hiding. We can drop the veneer of effortful accomplishment and–whoosh!–there goes the burden of needing to be more than we are.
This vision of being enough can be elusive. When our work grows and prospers, we can confuse the budding energy of a budding plant with external imperatives to impress or perform. Even here, authentic imperfection says, “If you really want to shine, show ‘em your tarnish!” (OR: “Add one more metaphor and stir!”)
Be nice to yourself. It’s good for business. 
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