Perfectionism

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Perfectionism: perfectionism is more than just setting high standards and working hard to achieve goals. Perfectionism is the idea that if something is not perfect or ideal, than it is a complete disappointment or a failure. Cleary perfectionism ties into the theme of ‘all- or- nothing thinking’...

When therapists refer to a “perfectionist”, they are usually referring to someone who works hard to achieve goals but is chronically unsatisfied with what they have actually achieved.

Perfectionism is related to low self-esteem. People who are Perfectionists are usually insecure. Their perfectionism sets them up for disappointment because no one can ever be perfect.

Perfectionists tend to have:

high levels of stress
problems with self-esteem
More medical problems than their peers
A tendency to procrastinate and to avoid completion of tasks because they feel they have to do them” perfectly”

Perfectionists tend to:

Pursue unrealistic goals
Have difficulty feeling a sense of satisfaction
Moving on

Learn how to let go of your perfectionism

by Jill Cohen, M.S.W., LCSW