Wednesday, January 16, 2013

Hi- I’m Pat and I’m a Passive Perfectionist::

So Monday I shared some of the things I’m doing to get a project done—and how I’m a PASSIVE PERFECTIONIST.  I don’t know if that’s a real term or not. I just made it up. But, I use it to describe  how I’m frozen in fear—when it comes to creating and doing projects. In my mind I think it will never EVER BE PERFECT, SO WHY FINISH IT?  I’m not saying it’s the right way to THINK…BUT it is how I think (as well as most perfectionists that have problems completing projects).
If you came here, after reading the title thinking I’d have something awesome and profound to help you get your projects completed, you’re in the wrong place.
However, I will give you a few quick tips from my own experience of being a long time Procrastinator due to Perfectionism.


Limit your planning:  Once you have a general idea of how you’d like to see a project completed. Make a short LIST, do a LITTLE RESEARCH, gather supplies and good examples…and get READY TO CREATE! (I over plan EVERYTHING…but that’s a post for another day)  


Use a visual.  Put it out there in front of you, what you like and plan on seeing, once your project is complete. (don’t put it in a room that has a door on it OR cover it with sheets telling yourself, it so SHABBY CHIC!)

clock-wise starting top left: 
(I found all these INSPIRING SETTEES on Pinterest and have pinned them here)

HONE YOUR SKILLS: practice, practice, practice (painting, sewing, using TOOLS, machines,etc.) PRACTICE MAKES IMPROVEMENT!!! 
 I made two pillows with reversible fronts and backs and re-covered the buttons. 
(I didn't make the needle point pillow...but it matches with the red and greens) 

I made the seat cushion, too.
I made two chair slips  and tied them on with fabric made from the same as the seat cushion. 

 All of it was mad with re-purposed materials. The pillow inserts were some I had...I just opened them up and re-used them! The seat cushion was a seat of sheets bought re-sale in new condition and the gingham was a curtain panel my daughter was tossing out! 
I made it all in one weekend too, start to finish! Surprised? I was. 

Blog about it:  (Or at least tell a friend) Blogging makes me accountable. Because, all of my readers come here or email me,( or if they are family and have my phone number…THEY CALL!) inquiring… how’s the (fill in the blank)  coming along? 

This is me, telling you my friends how I am tackling a hard project and putting off procrastinating. :) 

BE ENCOURAGED not FEARFUL:  that’s all perfectionism is. Fear. Fear of imperfection. YOUR PROJECT ISN’T GOING TO LOOK LIKE the designer’s version on the FANCY-Schmancy BLOG. It’s not going to look like the one in the magazine EITHER.  Even if it LOOKS AWESOME, WONDERFUL AND GOOD… it is your creation, your project, your craft… it will be different, because you are different. 

And above all else:Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as for the Lord rather than for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance. It is the Lord Christ whom you serve.~ Colossians 3: 23-24
That’s it. Simple advice.  Not professional by any means. But very knowledgeable…and full of experience. Let me assure you!
Now get out there and get those 2013 projects started AND FINISHED!!!



"For the eyes of the LORD move to and fro throughout the earth that He may strongly support those whose heart is completely His.~ 2 Chronicles 16:9a








12 comments:

Revi said...

Progress - and your practice project look great, you passive perfectionist. How's that for alliteration?:)
-Revi

Sandy said...

I'm looking forward to your posting photos
as you inch along, step by step with your
huge change to that settee..... I know it
will turn out beautiful!
Sandy

Pioneer Woman at Heart said...

I know you can do it. Rah, rah rah - that's my cheer today (ha ha ha!).

Linda @ Itsy Bits And Pieces said...

Your projects look great, Pat! I have a really hard time completing things because I have too many going on at once...I have to learn to do things one small project at a time! Lots of good, inspiring tips here!

My Repurposed Life said...

I have lots of faith in your completion of any project! :)
If I "planned" (yikes-word of the year) like you, I'd never get anything done. lol I just jump in full speed ahead!
good luck!!!
gail
ps I use to sing a little ditty to jamie "you can do it I know you can" It's from some old song...

Patty Sumner said...

You can do it! The cushions look great! If that is an indication o what is to come the seatee will gorgeous! Excited to see te ed result.. You go girl! Blessings!

Liz @ Quirky Vistas said...

Bravo, bravo! Well said, well done! I like the idea of putting the picture there to remember what you are shooting for. So many good tips. I procrastinate out of fear of failure and I always have. You are wise to be practicing your skills to build your confidence and ability. Every step we take now assists the next one we will have to take. Your Dear Sisters note at the end is priceless. You are too funny! Thanks for all you put into this!
Liz

retrorevival.biz said...

Ha! I sooooo relate to this post! Feel like you were describing ME! Thankfully, I've gotten much better these past few years by doing a lot of what you've suggested:) Great tips, and nice job on your projects!

Cindy said...

You can do it, my dear, I know you can. What I do, is take a day when I have nothing else to do but work on my project. That's the only way I can accomplish anything from start to finish.
Your three chair bench is fabulous and the cushion and chair covers are beautiful! Looking good!!!
Hugs, Cindy

dl@frugalhacks.com said...

I really appreciate how you have broken this task into areas of accomplishment. Looking forward to seeing the "new" sette and chair!

Jemma@athomewithjemma said...

What a positive and go forth attitude! Only way to go! I enjoy your writing! New Follower:) Have a fantastic week!

Bliss said...

Dear Corn,
Please blaze the trail for the rest of us novices in your upholstery endeavor. We shall not complain about anything.

Bliss
(I just wanted to type Dear Corn, because that sounds funny as helll)