Perfectionism and Picking out a Washing Machine



There are some decisions I can make quite easily, things like which watermelon to buy or whether to wear my blue suede flats or my mint green peep-toes.

But there are other decisions that cause my stomach to twist into knots and attempt to dive down to my toes. You'd think that I was about to give a speech to a thousand people or at least go in for a job interview, something that really is momentous.

In actuality, I was going shopping for a washing machine.

There's something about making a purchase that costs more than a day's work that paralyzes me. Especially when I don't know anything about it and have no clue what the "best" product is to select.

So for two days I researched and worried, comparing reviews online, visiting stores and taking notes on all their models, unable to decide between this model or that model for fear of choosing the wrong one. Essentially, obsessing over this purchase.

Finally and uneasily, I made the decision, though the knot in my stomach didn't give way until a few hours later when I finally had some time to process everything. And I realized that there's no perfect washing machine. Some may break in a year, others may break in ten years. But all of them are going to break.

Even more than that, I can't make a perfect decision. Even with the wisest counsel, tons of back issues of Consumer Reports, and all the Amazon reviews in the world.

Our new washing machine got installed this morning. Even with one load already in the dryer and all signs looking good, I'm still a little apprehensive that it's going to break down any moment now or shred our clothes like a block of cheese.

But in spite of all that, I'm reminding myself that I'm not perfect. The machine isn't perfect. But God is.

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6 comments:

  1. i know exactly what you mean, i feel the same way anytime i have to make a big purchase! and i'm curious about the washing machine you chose, we may be trying to buy one soon too - any tips on finding a good deal or how you're liking your new one?

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  2. @ Kaitlin - Well, so far we've only done one load, but it works pretty well (especially the spin cycle, which is what went out on the other one we were using)! I'm hoping it stays that way for a long time :) We settled on a top-loading Kenmore that we picked up at a nearby Sears Outlet. It was brand new but way cheaper than anything else we'd found!

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  3. Sometimes it's the same with me... I hate making important decisions. It can drive you crazy...
    But I'm happy for you that you finally found one!

    And I have to agree... God is perfect. <3
    Have a nice day and god bless you!

    xo, Nina

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  4. I definitely understand that feeling! When I went to buy my DSLR I kind of freaked out. It's a lot of money to spend on one thing... and if you don't like it or something goes wrong, it would be such a terrible feeling! But you know what? I've never really regretted a purchase that I've truly thought out like you've done. So don't worry about it, my dear, and just enjoy your new blessing. :)

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  5. @ Nina - Thanks so much :) I appreciate it!

    @ Kristin - It's funny you say that, because when I was in the midst of freaking out, I thought back to all the big purchases I've made (car, laptop, etc.) and I have been happy with all of them! That's a good reminder :)

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  6. I'm the same way when it comes to huge decisions (which to me anything over $100 feels like a huge decision). Being a perfectionist doesn't help things at all, does it? LOL.

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