“Excellence is never an accident. It is always the result of high intention, sincere effort, and intelligent execution; it represents the wise choice of many alternatives – choice, not chance, determines your destiny.” – Aristotle  

We live in a world that often glorifies perfection, leaving many of us feeling unrelenting pressure to meet impossible standards. Whether in our careers, relationships, or personal goals, we might think being “perfect” is the ultimate measure of success. But what if aiming for perfection is not only unnecessary but counterproductive? What if excellence, rather than perfection, is the goal we should strive for?  

In this post, I want to delve into the difference between perfection and excellence. Understanding this difference can free ourselves from the burden of unrealistic expectations and focus on what truly matters: connection, progress, growth, and impact.  

The Trap of Perfection 

I have often experienced the transformative power of understanding the deeper meanings and origins of words. Exploring the etymology of a word is like understanding the roots of a tree—it reveals the elements of its true beauty or can help to avoid getting poisoned.  

The word “perfect” comes from the Latin perfectus, meaning “to complete” or “finish thoroughly.” Perfection implies a fixed, unchanging state where nothing more can be added or improved. It is rigid, unyielding, and often unattainable.  

A perfect performance, a perfect project, or a perfect life suggests something ideal, untouchable, and complete. This is the message we often receive from advertisements: perfect objects, perfect people.  

However, the pursuit of perfection can be a trap. It is rigid and unforgiving, leaving no room for error, creativity, or individuality. Because perfection is often unattainable, striving for it can lead to frustration, self-doubt, and even paralysis. How many times have you delayed starting a task or sharing your work because it wasn’t “perfect” yet?

Worse still, perfection can strip away our humanity and isolate us. By trying to present ourselves as flawless, we suppress our humanity—the very thing that connects us to others. Vulnerability, mistakes, and imperfections are what make us relatable, approachable, and real.  

Using my philosophy studies from high school, I can say that perfection belongs to Plato’s World of Forms, the realm of ideal, unchanging templates for all things. In Plato’s philosophy, everything in the physical world is an imperfect reflection of these perfect Forms. This perspective helps us understand why striving for perfection in our physical reality can often feel unattainable—it belongs to a metaphysical realm beyond human reach.

The Power of Excellence  

Excellence, by contrast, is dynamic and liberating. It comes from the Latin excellere, which means “to rise, surpass, or stand out.” Excellence isn’t about being without flaws—it’s about striving to be your best in any given moment. It celebrates progress, effort, and adaptability.  

Unlike perfection, which fixates on an ideal, excellence focuses on the journey. It recognizes that mistakes are opportunities for growth, that setbacks build resilience, and that imperfection is an essential part of creativity and innovation.  

When we observe reality attentively, we discover the true face of excellence.  

The world of sports is full of examples.  

An athlete doesn’t need a “perfect game” to excel. A basketball player may miss shots but still lead their team to victory through persistence and teamwork. Michael Jordan said: “I’ve missed more than 9000 shots in my career. I’ve lost almost 300 games. 26 times, I’ve been trusted to take the game winning shot and missed. I’ve failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed.” Excellence lies in how an athlete adapts, perseveres, and contributes to the team’s success.  

Roger Federer, in his famous Dartmouth commencement speech, shared his experience:  

“In tennis, perfection is impossible… In the 1,526 singles matches I played in my career, I won almost 80% of those matches… Now, I have a question for all of you… What percentage of the POINTS do you think I won in those matches?  

Only 54%.”  

Art offers similar lessons. A painting doesn’t need to be flawless to move people. The brushstrokes, imperfections, and raw emotion often make it more compelling. Van Gogh’s swirling skies in Starry Night aren’t “perfect,” but they are undeniably excellent.  

Why Embracing Imperfection Leads to Excellence  

1. Imperfection Fuels Growth

   When we embrace imperfection, we allow ourselves to take risks and learn from failure. It’s through these experiences that we grow and improve. Excellence is achieved not by avoiding mistakes but by using them as stepping stones to greater understanding and skill.  

2. Authenticity Builds Connection  

   Perfection feels distant and unattainable, while imperfection fosters connection. When we embrace our flaws, we give others permission to do the same, creating deeper and more meaningful relationships. Excellence shines brightest when it’s authentic.  

3. Flexibility Over Rigidity 

   Perfection demands rigid adherence to an ideal. Excellence, however, is flexible—it adapts to changing circumstances and focuses on doing the best with the resources and knowledge available in the moment.  

4. Sustainability

   The relentless pursuit of perfection is exhausting and unsustainable. Striving for excellence by embracing imperfection is more realistic and fulfilling. It allows us to maintain momentum without burning out.  

Choosing Excellence  

Striving for excellence by embracing imperfection honors the process of growth and progress. It means valuing effort and intention over unattainable ideals. It means showing up, flaws and all, and doing your best with what you have.  

Excellence is not about being flawless; it’s about being authentic. It’s about learning, adapting, and rising after every fall. When we let go of the impossible pursuit of perfection, we create space for creativity, courage, and connection.  

Life is more like Kintsugi, the Japanese art of repairing and transforming broken pottery into beautiful works of art using gold, silver, or platinum. Our imperfections are the gold that makes us unique.  

In the end, perfection may be an illusion, but excellence is an attainable reality. Choose excellence—it’s not about being flawless; it’s about being real, present, and your best self.