Maybe you feel like everything you do has to be flawless — school, your body, social media, friendships. Like every mistake means you’re somehow less worthy. That pressure is powerful — and common, especially in a world built on comparison.

Perfectionism often hides a quiet wish for safety: if I just do everything right, maybe no one will be disappointed. But life doesn’t work like that. It’s impossible to always be perfect, and chasing it can drain your joy and energy.

The teenage brain is especially sensitive to approval. Dopamine — the “reward chemical” — reacts to praise, likes, or success. That can make us chase results instead of real experiences. But your worth isn’t in your performance — it’s in your presence.

Alma’s tips:

Try doing something imperfect on purpose — sing even if you’re not great, draw without showing anyone, turn in that project even if it’s not perfect. Life isn’t about impressing; it’s about living. Perfection is an illusion, but presence is real. And remember: the people who truly matter don’t love you for being perfect — they love you for being human.