Perfectionism
So what is perfectionism? Is it a bad thing to strive for perfection? Perfectionism is best defined by the need to be and appear to be unflawed and perfect. This could be in one aspect of life such as work, or could be across different aspects of one’s life. Perfectionism is often viewed as a positive trait, but it can come some negative consequences too.
Signs you may be a perfectionist:
- Overthinking and re-writing a simple response to an email
- Avoiding new activities with friends due to the fear of not performing well
- Believing that one tiny mistake equals failure and consequently feeling an overwhelming sense of shame and disappointment
- Avoiding starting assignments due to fears of not being able to perform perfectly
- Struggling to focus on positives and see achievement if it hasn’t been perfectly completed, instead focusing on the negatives or short comings.
- Placing unrelenting standards on friends and loved ones
- Taking much longer to complete tasks due to the need to constantly change and tweak things until it’s perfect.
- Focusing on results and not achievements along the way
Perfectionists often set themselves unrealistic standards and goals, this is accompanied by being highly self-critical. Perfectionists can struggle with procrastination; this is due to the fear of not being able to complete the task perfectly or achieve their high expectations. Perfectionists often focus on imperfection and cannot appreciate where they have done well if it does not meet their unrelenting standards. Low self-esteem can accompany perfectionists, this is due to being more self-critical and setting such high standards for themselves. Perfectionism can lead to negative emotions, symptoms of anxiety, higher levels of stress and burnout.
If you feel like you relate to symptoms described above and are wanting support in regard to perfectionism, feel free to contact us on 8838-8687 or book an appointment online and come in to see one of our friendly Psychologists.