Perfectionism: Driving Force or Roadblock?

Have you set unattainable, high standards for yourself? Do you become self-critical when you do not achieve said high standards? Have you become critical of others for not meeting the standards which you have set? Does your fear of failure lead you to procrastination or hinder you from following your dreams? If you have answered yes to any of the above, you may have perfectionistic tendencies.
 
While continuously striving to be the best version of yourself and having attention to detail can be a great driving force, perfectionism often becomes a roadblock.
 
How do you know if perfectionism is blocking your path to self-actualization?

• Your fear of making mistakes, failing and disapproval leads to procrastination or inaction.
• You have adopted all-or-nothing thinking.
• You are constantly seeking reassurance from others and have challenges validating yourself.
• You are constantly feeling under pressure to live up to the high standards and expectations that you have set for yourself.
• You are very sensitive to receiving feedback and even become defensive.
• You find receiving compliments and celebrating your successes uncomfortable.
• You prioritize pleasing others over your own needs.

 
The good news is that you can manage your perfectionism and even turn it into your driving force to success. Here are a few tips on how you can achieve this:

• Work on your self-awareness by clearly defining your personal values.
• Redefine your standards and expectations of yourself. Allow yourself to be challenged in an attainable manner. Set goals that are realistic.
• Choose positive self-talk over self-criticism. Be kind and constructive instead of destructive.
• Measure your successes according to how far you have come instead of the successes of others.
• Focus on the present moment.
• Create to-do lists that help you avoid procrastination. Break big tasks into small steps to avoid overwhelm.
• Remind yourself that your self-worth is not dependent on your work output.
• Give yourself permission to make mistakes.
• Reframe failure and negative feedback as a learning opportunity. The fact that you had the courage to try is something positive, acknowledge that.
• Asking for help and support is not a weakness. You do not need to do everything by yourself.

 
You have a choice. You can either focus your energy on building roadblocks or you can become the driving force toward your success.
 
By Naomi Wernecke, Personal Development Coach
Photo credit: Unsplash

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