137. Embrace Your Imperfections Today’s episode is focused on how to embrace your imperfections. We have all grown up with programming and messages from our families, teachers, media, society, culture, etc. that tell us what we are “supposed” to do in our lives. Some of these messages may include: get good grades, go to a good school, get a good job, get married, have children, save for retirement, follow the rules, don't talk back, respect your elders, etc. You get the gist of the messages that we have all heard and internalized over many years. These messages, also known as stories, may instill some sort of ideal picture into your head that you have to be perfect and act in a perfect way. Why would someone strive to be perfect? Usually, it is viewed as a way to gain the approval of others. In this episode: Brene Brown’s views on perfectionism. My own experience of trying to be all things to all people, but myself. Are you seeking too much external validation? Choosing imperfection and being unique instead. Common misconceptions of perfectionism. Looking at failure in a positive way instead of only looking at a negative you want to avoid. Resources Mentioned in the Episode: “The Common Misconceptions of Perfectionism” by Amanda Johnson  "Perfectionism is Increasing and That’s Not Good News" by Thomas Curran and Andrew Hill The Visibility Factor Podcast: Episode 56 - Internal vs External Validation The Visibility Factor Podcast is brought to you in part by the Amplify You Program. Do you have limiting beliefs that are holding you back from the success that you want for you career and your life? This 12-month program is a powerful experience that Amplify You is a unique program that will help you learn how to articulate your value and demonstrate the talent that you have so you get the opportunities you deserve! Become a leader who uses your voice, makes an impact and has the career you deserve! If you are interested in learning more visit: https://susanmbarber.com/programs/  If you are interested in learning more, visit: susanmbarber.com/visibilitybreakthroughaccelerator/ Thank you for listening to The Visibility Factor Podcast Check out my website to order my book and view the videos/resources for The Visibility Factor book. As always, I encourage you to reach out! You can email me at [email protected]. You can also find me on social media everywhere – Facebook, LinkedIn, and of course on The Visibility Factor Podcast! I look forward to connecting with you! If you liked The Visibility Factor, I would be so grateful if you could subscribe and rate it where you listen to podcasts! It helps the podcast get in front of more people who can learn how to be visible too! Thank you to the team at Sheep Jam Productions for the amazing support of The Visibility Factor Podcast!