The Power of Being Bad
On embracing imperfection, queer growth, design conference, state of social media, revolutionary books, and thocky keyboards
Hi friend,
As a lifelong perfectionist who’s been on a journey to break this habit, I had a recent breakthrough.
Perfectionism is something I’m always writing about — from its roots in trauma & inequity to dangers of exhausting ourselves for that 1% gain. The latest insight comes from embracing something completely counterintuitive: the power of being “bad.”
And no, not in a mischievous or harmful way, but being unpolished, imperfect, and incomplete.
While I’m still figuring out exactly why we cling to perfectionism, especially when it works against us, I’ve started to give myself the permission to be “bad”.
And through this mindset shift, found a few new ways to reframe my thinking:
1. External validation → Internal acceptance
Instead of seeking approval from others, accepting that imperfection is normal. My worth is not tied to someone else’s option.
2. Reaching the destination → Enjoying the journey
Rather than obsessing over the end result, embracing the messiness of progress. Even a stumble is a step in the right direction.
3. One right answer → Openness to many solutions
Leaning into experimentation and iteration, and realizing the trove of insights an open process offers.
By reframing what perfectionism tries so hard to avoid (the unpolished, the incomplete, the “bad”), we can relinquish its grip over us.
While it might not be perfect, what’s “bad” may be exactly what we need.
What I’m up to
Some insights from my latest conference with Out in Tech: embracing change, community, and progress.
For our community
Hosting a panel next week with some creative leaders on navigating community-centered design work while facing pressures of capitalism, profits, and the current economic landscape. Join us in an open dialogue about our creative work, elevating our communities, and vision for an equitable future!
Session: 10/11 at 4:00p ET
Tickets: https://www.aiga.org/design/aiga-design-conference (virtual tickets close 10/8)
For QTBIPOC: Tue, Dec 17 - State of Equity featuring:
Something to learn
Recent deck on the state of social media that was spreading across agency Twitter: check out OUTSIDERS social signals. Great insights for anyone curious about the future of social channels & younger generation trends.
Something to read
The New York Times published this year their 100 Best Books of the 21st Century. (I usually add a ton of books to my Goodreads from these lists for future reading)
Something to buy
For anyone in the market for a new keyboard - recently bought the Nuphy Air75 V2 and I'm obsessed. It's portable, light, and satisfying to use. (There’s also a version with a number pad for those who want the full experience)
As always, thanks for reading! Any thoughts? Reply to email me directly. 💌
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With Metta (loving-kindness),
Steven
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