There is more pressure than ever to get things right in every part of your life to be perfect. Gadgets, apps, and advice on how to be your very best all the time surround us. But that is such an illusion. No one can be perfect; it just is not humanly possible.

It is excellent to set the bar high, to go after challenges, and stretch yourself. But you can not expect to win at everything all the time. Sit back for a minute and consider the benefits of embracing imperfection.

1. You will be happier

Perfectionists carry a LOT of emotional baggage from trying to look as though their entire world is 110% wonderful all the time. They are at a higher risk of depression and anxiety and hardly ever content with what they have.

Embrace the messy, flawed parts of your life and yourself, and you will be happier and way less stressed.

• You will not fear failure so much

Accepting imperfection means failure shrinks back down to being just another aspect of life. Perfectionists tend to take failure personally. It becomes a catastrophe and something that defines their sense of self. But accepting that to make mistakes is human means you see failure as an opportunity to learn, make the necessary changes, and move on.

• Embracing imperfection makes you a more pleasant person

If you are comfortable with imperfection, you will not be so quick to criticize and judge others. And that will make you a much nicer friend, colleague, and family member. You will be less likely to blow your fuse at trivial things, you will cut people more slack, and relationships will be calmer and more rewarding.

• Your self-esteem will grow

People who accept their flaws and quirks are less likely to be hard on themselves when they make a mistake. Perfectionists are usually their own harshest critics; their self-esteem is fragile and quickly crushed. Acknowledgment of your humanity means you are less likely to feel guilty or ashamed when you make a mistake or don’t reach your goals as soon as you might have liked.

• You will inspire others

Imperfection is the keynote of being a human. It is how we learn and progress and connects us. That is okay, and gracefully accepting the ebbs and flows of life will make you someone people look up to and admire. Your kids will see that you value them more than that vase they broke. It is more important to spend time with them instead of asking if they’ve done their chores.

Until next, stay safe, and keep the faith.