By Anonymous Pilot
Admittedly, I think that I’ve always been a perfectionist: I hold myself to ridiculously high standards, tear myself down when they’re not met, & am constantly comparing myself to others. Everything I do has to be perfect, otherwise I’m not good enough.
Unfortunately, people who struggle with perfectionism & wanting to be perfect in every way can fall victim to eating disorders because of their desire to achieve the perfect body, eat in the perfect way, or just feel in control.
At the beginning of 2022, I received bad news which negatively impacted my eating habits and overall mental health. By the summer, I was a completely different person. Even though I didn’t want to, I grounded myself from flying because I knew that I wasn’t fit enough to do so & that absolutely broke my heart. Flying makes me happy. After that, I lost interest in everything & felt so empty. Luckily, my family members were able to pick up on the subtle manifestations of disordered eating & I was able to seek help before it was too late. Because just like a plane, a pilot needs fuel to function properly too.
Today, I am happier, healthier, flying again, & almost have my instrument rating. I have learned that life is what it is & that there’s no point in trying to control it so much or punish yourself. I believe that a lot of other pilots may struggle with perfectionism as I do. You are not alone in your struggles & you are not “weak” for seeking support. I am a 19 year old first gen female pilot. I have hopes of becoming a corporate pilot & owning my own charter company one day.
Resources:
What is Your Title?: Pilot
What Is Your Favorite Quote?: The most effective way to do it, is to do it. - Amelia Earhart