E39 Excellence vs. Perfection: How to Strive Without Straining

Do you feel frustrated that things could be better? If so, congratulations on having high standards! 😅 In this episode, we dive into an insightful reel from Donald Miller (@donaldmiller) and unpack his thoughts on having high standards in life. Whether you're facing challenges in your marriage, career, or personal goals, this conversation encourages you to embrace those frustrations as a sign of your desire for excellence. We get real about the tension between healthy expectations and the trap of perfectionism. Join us as we explore how high standards shape not only our efforts but also our mindset. From personal stories of overcoming perfectionism to practical tips on setting realistic goals, we discuss how to keep striving for better without getting bogged down by impossible standards. We talk about the difference between positive stress that drives growth and negative stress that stalls it. Ultimately, it’s about honoring God through our pursuit of excellence, not for our own praise but because He is worthy. Listen in as we reflect on how to live a life anchored in grace, wisdom, and the pursuit of godliness, even when things don’t go as perfectly as we’d like. Original Instagram Reel can be found here. *****************  SIGN UP FOR OUR NEW, FREE 52-WEEK EMAIL SEQUENCE! We have just created a brand-new weekly email series on how to be a better friend! Each week, we'll email you a short, easy-to-do, action item to improve a relationship in your life.  We compiled the top 50+ desirable traits in healthy relationships and created a quick-to-read email explaining one trait per week. And then we make it practical with thoughts for reflection, a Bible verse, and a simple call to action that you can do TODAY. It’s like your friends and loved ones are sending you a note telling you what makes them feel loved!  SIGN UP HERE for FREE! Find and connect with us in more places and ways: Website: https://www.soulanchoring.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@soulanchoring Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soulanchoring Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SoulAnchoring Email: [email protected]   Listen Now:  ​​Apple Podcasts Spotify Website If you like what you hear from us, would you be so kind as to Follow Us / Subscribe, Give us a 5-Star Rating, Write a Glowing Review, and Pray for Us? You can also make suggestions of topics you'd like to hear us discuss.  If you'd like to donate to Soul Anchoring Ministries - our nonprofit dedicated to helping people have God-honoring relationships - click here.  Thanks!!  💙 blessings, cosmo + suzi