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 often experience chronic stress and exhaustion because they invest an excessive amount of time and energy into every task, leaving little room for relaxation and self-care.

"Don't Try To Get It Perfect, Just Get It Going!"

One way to combat the negative effects of perfectionism is to adopt a new mantra: "Don't try to get it perfect, just get it going!" This simple phrase encourages a more practical and balanced approach to achieving our goals.

Recognize that no one is perfect, and striving for perfection is an unrealistic and unattainable goal. Instead of fixating on making everything flawless, accept that imperfections are a natural part of life and growth.

Shifting your focus from achieving perfection to making progress can alleviate stress. Research in the journal Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin suggests that setting realistic, achievable goals and celebrating small milestones can lead to greater satisfaction and lower stress levels.

"And Then Keep It Moving and Refine as You Go!"

Once you've taken the first step and embraced imperfection, the next key to reducing perfectionism-related stress is to "keep it moving and refine as you go." This means continuing to work on your goals while being open to adjustments and improvements along the way.

Instead of fearing mistakes, view them as opportunities for growth and learning. Research in the journal Psychological Science indicates that individuals who accept their mistakes and learn from them are better equipped to handle stress and bounce back from setbacks.

Be kind to yourself and practice self-compassion. Research published in the journal Self and Identity suggests that self-compassion can reduce stress and increase overall well-being. Treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding you would offer a friend facing a challenge.

Conclusion

Perfectionism can be a double-edged sword, driving us to excel but also leading to excessive stress and anxiety. By adopting a more balanced approach, embracing imperfection, focusing on progress, learning from mistakes, practicing self-compassion, and not sweating the small stuff, we can reduce the harmful effects of perfectionism and lead happier, healthier lives. Remember that it's okay not to be perfect—what truly matters is the journey and the progress you make along the way.