Letting go of perfectionism, traversing the peaks and valleys of life, and some great jobs!

We get a bit more personal in this one!

I’m a recovering perfectionist.

I used to get so frustrated when I didn’t perform up to my expectations in something. It didn’t matter what it was—sports, music, a test at school, a project at work, etc.

If things didn’t go right, I was mad at myself and often looked for someone else to blame.

But that way of approaching things wasn’t helpful.

So in our career tips today, we’ll talk about an approach that IS helpful!

And you’ll also love the book recommendation of the day…

In today’s newsletter:

• What we can focus on instead of perfectionism

• Navigating ups and downs in life and work

• Hot jobs

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Tips on improving your performance and productivity in the workplace bites and provides

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CAREER TIPS

How to Let Go of Perfectionism

In the fast-paced world of engineering and technology, the pursuit of excellence is often accompanied by the burden of perfectionism. Many find themselves entangled in a web of self-imposed standards, leading to feelings of inadequacy and shame when those standards are not met. We'll explore the pitfalls of perfectionism and advocate for a shift towards progress and healthy striving.

The Power of Progress

There are moments when the weight of unaccomplished goals and unmet standards feels debilitating. The quest for perfection can become a paralyzing force, hindering personal and professional growth. It's essential to recognize that the key lies in embracing progress rather than fixating on perfection. Progress is not about achieving flawlessness in every endeavor but is instead a continuous journey of improvement marked by bumps, bruises, and valuable lessons.

Brené Brown's Insights on Perfectionism

Brené Brown, in her book The Gifts of Imperfection, says, "Perfectionism is not the same thing as striving to be your best Perfection is not about healthy achievement and growth perfectionism is the belief that if we live perfect, look perfect, and act perfect, we can minimize or avoid the pain or blame judgment and shame it's a shield perfectionism is a 20-ton shield that we lug around thinking it will protect us when in fact it's the thing that's really preventing us from Taking Flight".

Perfectionism is an unhelpful burden.The emphasis should shift from living, looking, and acting perfectly to healthy striving—constantly seeking improvement without the burden of unattainable perfection.

Striving for Healthy Achievement and Growth

Striving for healthy achievement and growth involves striking a balance between having high expectations for oneself and practicing self-compassion. It is an acknowledgment that the best effort each day may vary based on external factors. Engineers and tech professionals should understand the importance of patience and grace in the pursuit of their goals, recognizing that progress is a gradual process.

The imperfections and setbacks that inevitably accompany professional journeys should be viewed as opportunities for learning and growth. Rather than dwelling on mistakes, individuals should use them as stepping stones toward becoming the person they aspire to be. Each day presents a new chance to learn, improve, and overcome challenges.

The Process of Becoming

The process of becoming is not an instant transformation but a continuous journey. While one can decide to change in an instant, the realization of those changes takes time. We should find joy in this ongoing process, enjoying the journey through the challenges and opportunities that come our way.

The pursuit of progress over perfection is a liberating mindset shift. By letting go of the weight of perfectionism, redirecting focus toward healthy striving, and embracing the imperfect process of becoming, individuals can unlock their true potential. The call to action is clear: Choose progress, savor the journey, and relish the growth that comes from the pursuit of excellence.

 HOT JOBS OF THE WEEK

> DevOps Engineer at Uline (Apply)

> Software Engineer - Rendering Engine, PICO at ByteDance (Apply)

> DevOps Engineer at GSK (Apply)

> Applications Engineer at Aviva Links (Apply)

Nikola Tesla, born on July 10, 1856, in Smiljan, Croatia (then part of the Austrian Empire), was a brilliant and enigmatic inventor, engineer, and futurist. He immigrated to the United States in the late 19th century and quickly gained recognition for his innovative work in electrical engineering. Tesla's contributions include the development of alternating current (AC) electrical systems, numerous inventions related to electricity and magnetism, and pioneering work in wireless communication. Despite his incredible accomplishments, he faced financial challenges and spent his later years in relative obscurity, but his legacy as one of history's greatest inventors endures, with his name associated with countless technological advancements and the Tesla electric car company bearing his name in the 21st century.

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📚 BOOK RECOMMENDATION

Peaks and Valleys: Making Good And Bad Times Work For You--At Work And In Life by Spencer Johnson

This is a fabulous little story that can teach deep lessons.

A young man lives unhappily in a valley. One day, he meets an old man who lives on a mountaintop. At first, the young man doesn’t realize that he is talking to one of the most peaceful and successful people in the world. But in further encounters and conversations, the young man comes to understand that he can apply the old man’s remarkable principles and practical tools to his own life to change it for the better.

If you feel like you’re in a “valley” of life and want to get on a peak, read this book!