Social media is home to so much inspiration and genuinely uplifting content, but it can quickly become a toxic space dredging up insecurities, fears of inadequacy, self-comparisons, and an unshakable drive for perfection and acceptance. We expose ourselves to thousands upon thousands of videos, images and advertisements, which in the moment can feel enjoyable, but can quickly result in us losing perspective on the beauty within our own world / selves.

The drive for perfectionism can manifest in the form of anxiety, procrastination, negative self-talk, loss of creativity and inspiration, and so much more. But to have a beautiful life, and in my line of work, a beautiful design, thoughts of perfection have got to go!

Rather than letting fears plague our self worth or productivity, or, most importantly, the achievement of our goals and dreams, how about we let them be a welcomed opportunity for newfound connection with others? For example, when we allow ourselves to be imperfect (and with that often comes vulnerability) others instantly feel more at ease being themselves too… thus creating authentic relationships and feelings of acceptance - what so many are yearning for these days.

Often when people consider enhancing the design or decor within their personal space(s), their head goes to the flawlessly crafted spreads in top design magazines, Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, etc., and instantly an overwhelming feeling of that “perfect look” being inaccessible to them takes over. I know that feeling first hand because I’ve experienced it myself. But, through the establishment of my business and in working with my clients, I realize many of us operate the same…

We all appreciate stunning designs, and want them for ourselves, yet either don’t know where to start or automatically assume unless “everything goes” we can’t achieve the look we want… that magazine look. Suddenly the task seems daunting and we freeze up and internalize the “it must be out of reach” feeling instead, and cease to make any progress.

I’m here to tell you, getting rid of that perfectionist mindset isn’t easy - but it’s well worth it. Instead, I encourage you to make the most of whatever it is you have to work with, because at the end of the day, we ourselves are ever-evolving works in progress, so why shouldn’t that be acceptable for our spaces too?

A quick, simple approach I take with my clients is to:

1) Start by taking inventory of every single thing within a space - furnishings, decor, colors, textures, patterns, etc.

2) Evaluate what the goals of the space are - is it a revised layout? A new energy brought into the space? A totally different design aesthetic altogether?

3) If the budget is gigantic, well then, obviously go wild!!! But, if the budget is tight (or non-existent in some cases) challenge yourself to make use of what’s already there - pull from different spaces, rearrange furnishings even if you have NO idea how it may turn out - trust your gut, trust your feeling. It will either feel good or it will feel off, but ask yourself - does the space flow more easily? Does it feel bigger/more functional?

4) Clear out shelves, dressers, cabinets to start over again - purge, let things go.

5) Revitalize the energy through use of greenery, slight decor enhancements (like throw pillows, a new piece of art, a blanket, mirror, vase, etc.) and poof! You should have achieved a refreshed design with minimal expense.

May sound easier said than done, but hence the purpose of this post - strive for slight changes rather than perfection - and you’ll be amazed what you’re able to bring to life. And, of course, I am here to help you through it, too!

Until next time,

LG