I’m the leader. I have the answers. And I have my act together.

And of course we all know that’s not true. But it’s the façade we try to show the world. Because it’s comfortable.

So how do you deal with your own imperfection?

Happiness comes not from creating the perfect, but from accepting the imperfect and striving for better.

As I age, I increasingly understand the wisdom in this statement. And often it seems like every day is a struggle to accept it. Which means I have to admit that I’m still WAY far away from the ideal, and will never actually get there.

There’s a whole wave of advisors out there, especially on LinkedIn, who promise me a “seven-figure business.” Lately I even saw someone call it a “two-comma business,” which I find amusing.

I was on that hamster wheel, struggling toward the never-ending goal of happiness through the Ideal Lifestyle Business. But a few years ago, I realized that I already have the lifestyle which makes me happy, without having to chase someone else’s goal of fame and fortune.

I’m serving, I’m close to family, I’m making a difference in my community and to my clients. It’s kinda messy, to be honest, but I’m having fun.

I’m happy.