(#59) Caught in a perfectionism trap? try this to BREAK FREE
The Truth About Perfectionism: Why It’s Holding You Back
Are You Striving for Excellence or Stuck in Perfectionism?
Perfectionism might seem like a good thing—it pushes you to aim high and work hard. But when the need to be flawless starts keeping you stuck in fear, self-doubt, and never-ending self-criticism, it’s no longer serving you.
The truth? Perfectionism isn’t the same as healthy striving. High achievers pursue excellence with self-compassion. Overachievers chase unrealistic perfection, often at the cost of their well-being. Let’s break down the difference so you can start moving forward with confidence.
Healthy vs. Unhealthy Perfectionism
Healthy striving = Setting ambitious but achievable goals that inspire growth.
Unhealthy perfectionism = Setting impossible standards, leading to stress, procrastination, and burnout.
Here’s how to spot the difference:
High Achievers: Enjoy the process, celebrate progress, and allow room for mistakes.
Perfectionists: Fear failure, tie self-worth to achievements, and constantly feel like they’re not good enough.
High Achievers: Aim for excellence but know when to stop.
Perfectionists: Keep pushing even when it’s damaging their well-being.
The question is: Which one are you?
The Link Between Perfectionism and Imposter Syndrome
If you struggle with imposter syndrome, you might not actually lack ability—you’re just setting unrealistic expectations for yourself.
Your self-doubt isn’t proof that you’re incapable.
Sometimes, the only thing wrong with you is the standard you’re holding yourself to.
Confidence isn’t about knowing everything—it’s about trusting yourself to figure things out as you go.
Reminder: If you know your insecurities better than your strengths, you’ll always feel like you’re falling short. Shift the focus. Know your strengths. Own them. Stand in them.
Stop Rushing—The Process Takes Time
Perfectionists often want to rush success, skipping the uncomfortable steps of learning and failing. But real growth happens in the process, not just the outcome.
Trying to rush the process causes more harm than good.
Great things take time. Stop measuring yourself against unrealistic timelines.
Trust that where you are right now is part of your journey.
How to Let Go of Perfectionism and Move Forward
1. Redefine success. Instead of aiming for perfect, aim for progress.
2. Get comfortable with mistakes. They don’t define you—they refine you.
3. Stop self-criticism in its tracks. If your inner voice is harsher than you’d speak to a friend, it’s time to change the narrative.
4. Take small, messy action. Done is better than perfect. The sooner you start, the sooner you’ll grow.
“Final Thoughts: Confidence Over Perfection”
Perfectionism keeps you in fear. Confidence moves you forward. Choose confidence.
Your Challenge: This week, take action on something you’ve been overthinking. Post the content. Apply for the job. Speak up in the meeting. Do it imperfectly—because progress is what truly matters.