A writer explains why losing her Peloton streak after giving birth helped her grapple with feelings of perfectionism.
The one that ultimately convinced me to purchase a bike and join the popular at-home fitness app?
A user raved about the blue dots members earn for each completed workout.
I knew my commitment was unhealthy, but I couldnt help myself.
It was something I could control.
Still, I wasnt ready to admit defeat.
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Once the six-week recovery period began, I was determined to keep my streak going safely.
I did a few guided walks while roaming stark hospital halls in my patient gown and leopard-print slippers.
She gave me the green light to start postnatal yoga around the four-week mark.
I felt smug and proud in equal measure.This is doable, I thought.Other people arent trying hard enough.
And then the inevitable happened: I lost my streak on a nondescript Tuesday in November.
I didnt even notice I hadnt logged in for the day.
The realization and ensuing panic came shortly after midnight, and there were definitely tears.
All of my hard work was gone.
Its Amazing How Its All Connected.
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Theresevidenceto suggest those who self-identify as perfectionists are more likely to experience postpartum depression.
My blue dot grief was likely rooted in something more than my love of the fitness app.
I realized that despite my best efforts, Im not perfect.
My worth isnt determined by a row of blue dots.
As such, she recommends people practice radical acceptance as a way to combat fear, perfectionism and shame.
Instead of getting down on myself, Im learning to practice radical acceptance.
I commit to trying again the next day.
Im essentially following James Clears advice inAtomic Habitsabout avoiding the second mistake.
He writes: What separates the elite performers from everyone else?
Not perfection, but consistency.
Working on breaking perfectionism really is about self-compassion, self-love, and accepting our humanness.
So in that regard, Im spending more time pursuing progress rather than perfectionism.
I honor progress when it comes to drafting my first book without making sure each word is perfect.
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