<p>So is writing about trying to overcome the need to be a perfectionist in everything a risky topic or not? My father thinks it is a bad idea as colleges will look at it as I am now willing to settle for being average. I think my academic record will show that this is not true (4.49 GPA, top 5% of class, solid SAT scores) but I'm not sure if colleges will look at this topic positively or negatively. Please give me some advice!</p>
<p>it can be a great essay. there’s nothing mediocre about dealing with neuroses or admitting that you have them. it’s really the opposite, a sign of excellence. your narrative will have to show that you’ve grown and matured in the process. describe the challenges that you faced, what you’ve done in response, the resources you’ve called upon, and what you’ve learned.</p>
<p>^ I agree. I think you could write a fantastic essay on this topic. If perfectionism can’t be achieved, why should we even bother to aim for it?</p>
<p>Yes, nobody, I mean nobody is perfect in this world. Not even the world is perfect. Everybody has some issue to deal with. There is not a single person or creature which does not have issues. Its only that some are easy to be seen, some are hard to get noticed and so on. And yes, it takes a lot of courage to admit something like that. The essay must reflect the struggle that you have undergone and this should not be some kind of emotional black mail for the reader. There is a fine line between explaining a genuine issue and trying to sympathize on that issue. So, choose your words wisely. I’m sure your essay will get a good score.</p>
<p>D1 needed to write a mini-essay about a quote, presumably from someone else. She quoted herself, with “Oh well.” About how it kept things for her - and others - in balance. That not everything has to be perfect, and gives her a sense of perspective and ability to prioritize. The school (Pton) accepted her.</p>
<p>There’s a difference between accepting being average and accepting that there are other smart people in the world and that perfectionism is a futile way to compete with them. The former is a red flag; the last one is a great lesson.</p>