832. Let Go of Perfect

Today, Dr. Killeen reflects on a quote from Albert Ellis about how rigid expectations can quietly create frustration. When we tell ourselves things must go perfectly or that others should always meet our standards, we set ourselves up for unnecessary stress when reality does not match. Challenges are part of the day, especially in dentistry. Procedures take unexpected turns, patients react in different ways, and schedules rarely go exactly as planned. The issue is often not the situation itself, but the pressure we place on how it should have gone. Hold high standards without demanding perfection. A small shift toward more flexible thinking can reduce stress, build resilience, and make the day feel a lot more manageable.