Perfect is the Enemy
Perfectionism affects both children and adults. It can stop us from even starting something new because we’re too afraid to fail. There’s a quote I always come back to: "Starting is half the battle." Just taking that first step can push fear aside and turn uncertainty into confidence.
This matters to me because I’ve seen how perfectionism holds people back—especially those closest to me. And I’ve lived it too. I know firsthand how many golden opportunities I’ve missed because I was afraid I wouldn’t do something perfectly.
My journey into public speaking is part of my effort to overcome that fear. It’s not just about finding my voice—it’s about proving to myself, and hopefully to others, that we don’t need to be perfect to make progress. We just need to begin.
Can PEHLİVAN
Grade 10 Student at Eyüboğlu Schools
Can Pehlivan is a student at Eyüboğlu, born in Istanbul and raised across three countries with vastly different cultures. He spent his early years in Istanbul before moving to New York City, where he lived for three years and developed English as his primary language. He then moved to Dubai, a truly cosmopolitan environment that exposed him to a wide range of perspectives and cultures—shaping his understanding of society in a deep and unique way. Now back in Istanbul, he brings a global lens to local issues.
Speaking from the often-overlooked perspective of Gen Z, Can reflects on the pressures of modern youth, offering insights into growth, failure, and the pursuit of clarity in an increasingly complex world. While he doesn’t claim to have all the answers, Can speaks openly from the middle of the journey. His goal is not to give perfect advice, but to share honest reflections—especially about how perfectionism has shaped his life.