Perfectionism is a shield that we often use to protect ourselves from getting hurt (or so we think).  I learned at a very young age that if I'm as close to perfect as possible I can avoid or minimize judgement and criticism.  I didn't believe that it was safe to be seen for who I really was...a scared little boy.  This is me putting down my shield and allowing myself to be seen.  Imagine a world filled with people putting down their own personal shields and allowing themselves to be seen.  That's a world I want to live in.  So what's your shield?