"Cuanto más perfecta es una cosa, más siente placer y dolor."

The essence of this quote is: when something or someone reaches a peak of perfection, they become more sensitive to both joy and suffering. To put it simply, the higher you rise, the more you feel.

Historically, this idea has roots in the philosophy of figures like Aristotle and Dante Alighieri. Think back to the time of the Renaissance, when the pursuit of perfection was a major theme. People believed that reaching an ideal state made the experience of life's highs and lows more intense. Why? Because a perfect being is more aware and finely tuned to their surroundings.

Let's dive into a real-life example. Take the perfectionist artist. Imagine an artist who spends years mastering their craft. Every brushstroke, every color choice is precise. Their work is stunning, flawless even. When they receive praise, it fills them with immense joy—more than an amateur might feel. But here's the flip side: even a small criticism can cut deeply. The same sensitivity that allows them to create beauty also makes them vulnerable to pain.

So, how can you apply this wisdom? First, recognize that sensitivity isn't a weakness. If you're striving for excellence, understand that intense feelings are part of the package. They reflect your deep connection to what you do. Also, practice self-compassion. Know that experiencing pain doesn't mean you're failing—it means you're fully alive and engaged. Balance your pursuit of perfection with moments of rest and self-kindness.

Now, picture this scenario. You’re a passionate writer. You’ve spent months crafting a novel, pouring your heart into every word. You finally share it with a friend, and they love it. The joy you feel is overwhelming—it’s like a validation of all your hard work. But then, you get a review with some harsh criticism. Suddenly, that same sensitivity that brought you joy now brings pain.

What do you do? You remind yourself that this is part of being a perfectionist. You learn to separate constructive criticism from personal attacks. You use the feedback to improve, but you don't let it crush your spirit. You take breaks, you talk to supportive friends, and you keep writing.

This concept of heightened sensitivity isn't just for artists or writers. Think about relationships. When you deeply care about someone, the joy from shared moments is immense. But disagreements or hurtful words can also cause intense pain. It’s a sign of how much you value the relationship. The key is to cherish the joy and manage the pain—knowing both are part of a rich, engaged life.

So, next time you feel deeply because you care deeply, remember: it’s a sign of your perfection. Embrace it. Use it to fuel your growth, and don’t shy away from the intense feelings that come with living fully. Life is a blend of pleasure and pain, and the more perfect you become, the more vividly you'll experience both. And that’s a beautiful thing.