The choice is clear

Happy Pi Day!

Yes, today, March 14 (3.14) is often referred to as Pi Day. Of course, this is not the calorie-laden treat, but a reference to the mathematical value of “Pi”.

Maybe you recall from high school geometry that the measurement of a circle is Pi x the diameter of the circle. As we take measure of the circle of life, however, the measurement is not always that easy because Pi is an irrational number whose decimal form never ends nor becomes repetitive.

It is very simple to think of the mathematical value of Pi as 3.14; but, like life, “It’s complicated.” When we seem close to closing the circle, we realize that we haven’t quite made it because the uncrtainty of Pi makes any problem seemingly unable to be resolved, if we let it.

My experience as a coach and a human being reminds me that I’m like that circle. Every time I think I have resolved a troubling issue I feel I need another digit to fully close the circle. I choose to either recalculate (seeking perfection) or accept where I am as an accurate approximation allowing me to move forward in life. (Sometimes ‘good enough’ really is GOOD ENOUGH.)

A common theme I’ve notice with people striving for ‘perfection’, is the need to problem-solve; to win the argument; to be right - at any cost. This desire certainly increases our stress level, and it can also lead to isolation and loneliness. Yet, we know from research that a human connection, the need to belong, is a fundamental human motivation leading to better health and performance.

All human beings experience emotions like anxiety, frustration, sadness and anger. Yet, when we allow these emotions to elevate they can crowd out the joy, happiness and serenity which is also present in our lives.

So take a moment today and ask whether we are solving for a piece of the pi(e) or for another type of peace.