I have often caught myself saying, “That’s perfect.”

It rolls right off the tongue, doesn’t it? We use it to express satisfaction, delight, or approval. But if we are honest, the word “perfect” can sometimes carry baggage—especially when it slips from being a compliment to becoming an expectation.

In a world that rewards performance and output, the idea of and pursuit of perfection often leaves us anxious, exhausted, even paralyzed. We actually know we cannot “get there” and in the end we won’t be “enough”.

But is there a difference between perfection and excellence? Why does it matter, and how do we live this out from a faith perspective.

Perfection is the idea of being without flaw or error. It often implies an unattainable or idealized standard—one that, if we are not careful, becomes more about appearance than substance.

Excellence, on the other hand, is about doing your best with what you have. It is rooted in intentionality, care, and growth—not in being flawless, but in being faithful.

I believe that perfection is rooted in a fixed mindset while excellence is rooted in a growth mindset. And it is our mindset that makes all the difference in how we show up in the world.

Can I Be Excellent Without Being Perfect?

The truth is, scripture consistently calls us to faithfulness, not flawlessness.

Colossians 3:23 says, "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters."

This is excellence. It is wholeheartedness. It is showing up, bringing your best, and offering it to God.

Ecclesiastes 9:10 echoes this: "Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might."

Again, the focus is not perfection—it is diligence, integrity, and wholehearted engagement.

I find it interesting to think that to many around him, Jesus did not appear perfect at all. We know today that he was sinless – but he did not always meet the expectations of those around Him. He was not trying to impress the Pharisees; He was obeying His Father.

What might this mean for our understanding of the relationship between perfect, excellent and the expectations of others?

Perhaps if we feel we have an audience of many, we may lean into a “perfection” mindset with all the negative emotions and outcomes this brings.

But if we understand and believe that we have an Audience of One - a loving Father who is for us and helping us – well, excellence becomes a joyful and worthy pursuit.

What about when I mess up?

This is where perfectionism falters and grace shines.

When we fall short (and we will), we can turn back to the cross.

“My grace is sufficient for you,
for my power is made perfect in weakness.”
(2 Corinthians 12:9)

God does not expect us to be perfect. He asks us to be humble, repentant, and teachable. The pursuit of excellence includes the courage to own our mistakes and grow from them.

A way forward

As followers of Jesus, our call is not to impress others but to reflect Him.

Perfectionism says: “If I don’t get it right, I’m not worthy.”
Excellence says: “Because I am already loved, I give my best.”

One is fear driven. The other is grace-fuelled.

So let us aim for excellence. Not to win applause or check every box—but to honour God, serve others well, and steward our callings with care. And when we miss the mark, may we return quickly to the One whose love never wavers.

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