Perfectionism

Definition: "a disposition to feel that anything less than perfect is unacceptable."

I recently spoke at a gathering about perfectionism. About half the room were prepared to admit that they were perfectionists. Initially.

Perfectionists are hard people to live with. Whether they're a friend, a family member, a business colleague, anyone at all. Why? Because nothing is ever good enough. It could have been done better... if you'd just done abc...if I'd just had more time I could've etc etc. They're just as tough on themselves as they are on everyone else mind you. It leads to a miserable life.

Don't get me wrong - I have nothing against striving. Striving to: do well; be a good friend; do the best possible job; to attain goals; to do better.

But not perfect. Perfect is tough, critical and hard to live with.

As far as retail is concerned - perfect stops sales. How many times have you seen a beautifully presented shop with gorgeous stuff - far too nice to touch...[let alone buy!]

So here's my tip if you have beautiful, perfect displays but want more sales. STOP with the PERFECT!! Mess it up a bit, make your displays look touchable, mess up your shop a tad... You'll be surprised at the results.

Just as Anthea was: "We messed up our stall on Sunday and sales went through the roof - who would of thought! "

Indeed. Who would have thought...