PERFECTIONISM AND STRESS: WHY STRIVING FOR PERFECTION CAN BE HARMFUL
In a world that often celebrates perfection and excellence, many of us find ourselves striving for flawlessness in every aspect of our lives. While setting high standards and aiming for excellence is admirable, an unhealthy pursuit of perfectionism can lead to detrimental consequences, most notably stress. In this article, we'll explore the relationship between perfectionism and stress, backed by research, and provide insights into adopting a healthier approach to achieving our goals. Perfectionism is the relentless pursuit of flawlessness and setting unrealistically high standards for oneself. It often involves critical self-evaluation and an intense fear of making mistakes. While it may seem like a positive trait, research shows that perfectionism can be a significant source of stress and anxiety. Perfectionism and Burnout The desire to achieve perfection can also contribute to burnout, as highlighted in research published in the Journal of Counseling Psychology. Perfectionists o