Do You Feel Like Your Home is Not Perfect Enough?

Today, I came across this discussion entitled, "The Gift of Imperfection" by Dr. Brene Brown. It speaks to how our drive for imperfection leaves us always feeling like we're "not enough" and how to approach our lives differently, more authentically.

As an "interior's therapist," also known as an interior designer, I often encounter clients in need of a makeover in this area. Frequently my clients say things like, "I just can't get my accessories to look as stunning as my neighbor's" or "I've gotta keep that sofa--my mother would kill me if I got rid of it" or "I love those 60's era cabinets but my realtor says they might effect my resale value in eight years" or EVEN, "my designer says that these fussy draperies are "just the thing" but I hate them!"

What do you say about (even if it's not out loud) a home that reflects your anxiety about other peoples expectations? Isn't this a drag? What if you chose "discomfort over resentment" as Brown recommends. This might mean saying "no" to what your friends, family or professionals in your life recommend. What if you decorated your home authentically--with the things you really love and that work for you? What would you pull out of the attic or put on the curb? Would your style change?

Last night I visited a friend's home. She asked me to pause in the entry way. She said "this is me" as she pointed to the niche below her stair that had red walls, an illuminated globe, a small table with sunflowers. It told me things about her that words couldn't say. How refreshing that she wanted to let me in to her world.

I had an experience with a client last year who later offered this testimonial on LinkedIn.com. “After two false starts with other decorators, I contacted Deborah to help me with several bedrooms that were desperately in need of finishing. I have a somewhat contemporary, funky, colorful style, and I wasn't sure if Deborah would 'get' me but she was fantastic. I love the new rooms, and she really brought a wonderful creative flair that matched my tastes, and was greatly enhanced by her talent." I share this not to promote myself, but rather to empower you to persevere to find the fit with a designer that "gets you."

Just in case, you're afraid of offending your designer or think they probably know better than you what is right for your home, good designers should want to know meeting your unique needs and preferences. This is what I really love about being a designer. I get to draw out what really matters to my clients and create a space that truly reflects their personality. Each space I create is as special as my clients--how exciting!