What is perfectionist?
A perfectionist is someone who has a tendency to set extremely high standards for themselves and strives for flawlessness in their endeavors. It involves a strong desire to achieve perfection in various aspects of life, such as work, relationships, appearance, and personal achievements. People with perfectionistic tendencies often have a deep fear of making mistakes or falling short of their own expectations.
Do you think you are a perfectionist?
If YES, psychologists can help you overcome perfectionism with a combination of therapeutic techniques, self-awareness, and consistent effort.
The following will be the general outline of the steps to combat perfectionism:
Self-Reflection and Awareness:
The first step is recognizing and acknowledging your perfectionistic tendencies. Discuss with a psychologist the ways in which perfectionism affects your thoughts, emotions, behavior, and overall well-being.
Set Realistic Goals:
Work with psychologist to set realistic and achievable goals for yourself. Perfectionists often set unrealistically high standards, which can lead to anxiety and frustration. Learning to set more reasonable expectations can help reduce perfectionistic tendencies.
Challenge Negative Thoughts:
Perfectionism is often driven by negative self-talk and distorted thinking patterns. Learn to identify and challenge these thoughts with the guidance of psychologist. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a common approach that can be helpful in this regard.
Practice Self-Compassion:
Perfectionists are often very hard on themselves and lack self-compassion. Learn to treat yourself with kindness and understanding, especially when things don't go as planned.
Embrace Mistakes and Failure:
Perfectionists often fear making mistakes or failing. With psychologist's support, work on changing your perspective towards mistakes and failures, seeing them as opportunities for growth and learning.
Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques:
Mindfulness meditation and relaxation techniques can help you become more present and reduce anxiety associated with perfectionism. Psychologists can guide you in practicing these techniques.
Time Management and Prioritization:
Perfectionists may struggle with time management and setting priorities. Learn effective time management skills to help you focus on what truly matters and avoid overextending yourself.
Behavioral Experiments:
Psychologists might suggest engaging in behavioral experiments where you intentionally engage in activities without trying to make them perfect. This helps desensitize you to the discomfort of imperfection.
Long-Term Maintenance:
Overcoming perfectionism is a process that takes time. Regular sessions with psychologists can provide ongoing support as you continue to work on changing your perfectionistic tendencies.
Remember that the process of overcoming perfectionism is unique to each individual. Psychologists can tailor their approach to your specific needs and provide guidance and strategies to help you make lasting changes. It's important to be patient with yourself and recognize that progress might be gradual but is definitely achievable with consistent effort and professional support.
Come and chat with our psychologist and clinical counsellors at Pegasus Integrated Health for ways to access freedom away perfectionism and freedom to joy and happiness.
