Teaching yoga is one of the most rewarding things in life. But teaching yoga can sometimes lead to feelings of being a perfectionist - at least it does for me.

I run an online yoga service, live a great quality of life, and I’ve helped over a thousand people improve their quality of life through yoga. But if I’m being honest, I’m not the world’s best yoga teacher (if there’s even such a thing).

Let me explain…

Over the years, I’ve realized that there are three things about me as a yoga teacher. First, I don't have a lot of patience, and not just with myself, but I think with people in general. That's something I'm working on.

Number two is I have very high expectations of myself and other people, and this perfectionism can sometimes be overwhelming. I'm really trying to work on being more accepting rather than expecting. That's a big lesson for me.

Third, if I’m being 100% honest, I'm a better yoga teacher when I focus on balance and mindfulness. What I mean by that is, if I'm constantly pushing myself and my clients to achieve perfect poses and routines, I’d probably burn out. When I take a step back and give myself and my clients space to breathe and grow, it fundamentally changes who I am as a person.

I need to have time to do what I need to do, play chess, listen to jazz music, and spend time with my beautiful wife. When I have that balance, I'm more patient, more accepting, and more effective as a yoga teacher.

If I can overcome my perfectionism and find balance, I believe anyone can. Let’s embrace our imperfections and continue to improve together.