“Anxiety,
sadness, depression and a constant anguish are all symptoms of that
aspect of pride known as perfectionism. This is an aspect of the
idealized self that is addicted to self-criticism and is always
condemning and judging. The idealized self is a cruel tyrant who does
not accept mistakes. We have to be the best of the best; the most
precious stone. Thus, we begin to compulsively do things, and put
pressure on ourselves demanding all sorts of things, as a constant form
of self-punishment. This prevents us from relaxing enough to notice that
we are already a diamond. We already are the most precious stone there
is, and it is precisely this compulsion to prove something to the world
that prevents us from truly shining.”
Sri Prem Baba