I sometimes get my nails done. It is a relaxing treat that is part of my self-care. I sometimes get designs, like the cool girls, with flowers or long tips. It is fun.
After spending an hour to an hour and a half with a nail artist, I leave the salon feeling good. I might even take a picture and send it to my friend Hillary because I know she appreciate fabulous nails. Hillary's nails always look stunning.
Of course, I often look at my pretty nails and marvel at how a nail artist can make such beautiful designs on a small surface area with an even tinier nail brush. I use my hands with more care than normal. I type with more pep. My fresh nails add a little beauty to my day
After many times of looking, I may notice an imperfection or two. A design may not be perfectly symmetrical. A nail may grow uneven compared to the others. I might feel a rough edge emerge, likely from playing with my dogs.
Years ago, these imperfections used to bother me. I used to care too much about my nails, being excessively mindful to keep them perfect. I used to avoid doing some things I wanted to do to maintain perfect nails. Sometimes, I would skip making a nail appointment because — why bother getting my nails done if something likely will go wrong anyway?
When I would notice an imperfection, it would eat at me, and I would fixate. it wasn't fun.
However, over time, I've come to understand these imperfections. I came to appreciate the beauty of having my nails done without the pressure of preserving them. I can appreciate that my nails looking nice is temporary. I can enjoy them in the moment and not sweat the imperfections. Also, the imperfections serve as a reminder of having a full and dimensional life.
The imperfections on my beautiful nails remind me of important things.
Beauty may sound frivolous, but it is an important part of life and brings joy.
Self-care is important, but when it becomes a burden, it loses its meaning.
More often than not, good enough is good enough.
Attaining and preserving perfection is exhausting and unfruitful.
Being shy of perfection allows me room to relax because I don't have to chase perfection.
By way of my pretty and imperfect nails, I am reminded to enjoy life and leadership as it comes and not stress chasing perfection or near perfection. The beauty and the nicks along the way reflect the messiness and joy of humanity.
And, that is enough.
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