Life presents many imperfections, and when those imperfections are clear, you have to choose what you can do and be satisfied with the imperfection of the situation.
As an educator this was one of the most difficult parts of the job. I could always see much more than I could do. I strove to find ways to do more, but the truth was there was always more to do than I could do with the resources, time, energy, and skill at hand. The advent of technology somewhat helped this situation, but as we all know COVID made the issue worse.
So when these imperfect situations arise, our best bet is to prioritize and do what we can while at the same time advocating for greater resources and support to be able to do even more and/or better.
Since I'm a dreamer and an idealist, I face this situation all the time. What I envision is often big, when the reality of what I can do is much less.
So as I consider one of those imperfect situations today, I am considering what I can do and prioritizing those actions.
Hands-on work
In this arena, there are many hands-on activities I can do to support the situation. I get great satisfaction from this work and want to do it regularly to contribute to the situation in positive ways.
Advocating for greater supports
I can also advocate for and locate more supports since I can't do it all on my own without risking my health and care for my home and family.
Promoting a sense of team
In ways that I can, I can try to promote a sense of team where those who are involved positively participate in ways possible.
Assessment
I can regularly assess my efforts and keep track of the work done in order to revise and improve as needed.
Satisfaction
These endless, limitless tasks can eat you alive if you let them. Instead you have to outline a realistic commitment and be satisfied with that effort.