I’m a perfectionist. 

I’m also an overachiever.

Though these two qualities have benefited me in some ways, they also make some things difficult.

One way in particular is when someone I know is going through a difficult situation.

I often really want to do something to bless them. Like make a meal. Or send a gift. Or do some other thoughtful thing.

But then I think….

“What if they don’t like the food I make?”

Or…

“This isn’t enough…”

And then my insecurities often stop me from doing anything.

You’ve probably heard the saying, “Go big or go home.” 

Though I can appreciate the sentiment behind this saying, it’s a terrible way to live.

Because sometimes that desire to “go big” keeps us from going at all.

Instead of motivating us, it actually stops us from doing anything.

A few years ago, one of my favorite authors, Rachel Macy Stafford, wrote a beautiful post where she broke apart this saying.

Instead of “go big or go home,” she said….

“Go small and show up.” 

Forget about being perfect.

Forget about doing that big, huge gesture.

Because what really matters is not WHAT you do but THAT you do it.

It’s okay if you never make a homemade meal for a grieving family. There’s nothing wrong with takeout.

It’s okay if the gift isn’t wrapped.

It’s okay if the cookies are store-bought.

And do you know why?

Because you showed up.

And THAT is what really matters.

*You should definitely go read Rachel’s original post. It is SO good! I owe this entire idea and the image above to her!