I started over on the program because I "fell off" about two months ago. I just listened to tape four and think I finally got it. It's like a lightbulb went on in my brain. This may seem to ramble, but bear with me because it's just me commented on things about myself that are starting to seem ridiculous!

I use a tape measure to hang pictures in my home and they have to be the same distance apart and perfect.

We've lived in our apartment for two years now and have still not finished decorating because I have to find things that are "just right".

I'm in graduate school, have a 3.85 gpa, and still feel like I'm unintelligent and could be doing much better.

Our christmas tree ornaments have to match the wrapping paper, which has to match the colors in the apartment.

I buy gifts with the intention of getting the perfect reaction, ie., the person will start to cry and say "how did you know this is exactly what I want!".

When my husband cleans the apartment, I clean after him to my specifications.

I could come up with tons more, but those are the big ones that hit me while I was listening to the tape. No wonder I'm such a mess!!! Maybe, now that the light is finally on, I can work on changing things!
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Jen

Lucinda talks in her book Panic to Power about the difference between having High Standards (a positive thing) and being Perfectionistic. I can relate to what you're saying, and I'm learning how freeing it is to choose not to obsess. Yes, i would like things to be "more perfect", but not at the cost it would take from me and my family. But to strive for high standards is good.

Starla,

I thought I was bad!lol! Like Mintflower says having high standards is okay.

Just to comment on the holidays- personally, I think that our homes are like our 'sanctuary.' If surrounding yourself w/ this at Christmas makes you feel good and you're not stressing yourself out over it, that's alright!

I have a friend that does the same thing. She has a tree in each main room w/ a different theme,etc.,etc,. She LOVES doing it. Their whole family does it together as a tradition at EACH of their homes! There are three families. NOT one person!!! They all pitch in and they're done! I WOULD GO CRAZY!

Setting high standards is so freeing~
Good luck!
Diane

Thanks for the post. YOu have reminded me to stay on a healthy focus for the holidays. And gave me a bit of a chuckle. I did the tape measure thing in my room! They always come out lopsided! Hey who cares, as long as they stay on the wall!!!