Perfectionism is the voice of the oppressor, the enemy of the people. It will keep you cramped and insane your whole life, and it is the main obstacle between you and a shitty first draft. I think perfectionism is based on the obsessive belief that if you run carefully enough, hitting each stepping-stone just right, you won't have to die. The truth is that you will die anyway and that a lot of people who aren't even looking at their feet are going to do a whole lot better than you, and have a lot more fun while they're doing it.
Anne Lamott's perspective on perfectionism highlights its detrimental effects on creativity and overall happiness. She describes perfectionism as a controlling force that inhibits progress and can lead to mental turmoil. This mindset creates an obsession with getting everything right, ultimately hindering the ability to produce initial drafts or ideas. Lamott argues that the pursuit of faultlessness is misguided and often leads to frustration rather than success.
Furthermore, she suggests that the fear of imperfection is ultimately futile since life is unpredictable and finite. Many individuals who take risks and embrace authenticity while not being overly focused on their performance often find greater enjoyment and success. Lamott's insights encourage writers and individuals alike to let go of the need for perfection and instead focus on creativity and the process of creation.