Being a perfectionist, sounds like pretty solid character trait, we all love how they act those parts on a TV show or movie, getting the picture frames right, having a perfect schedule of activities for every single day. The beauty of perfectionism goes on and on.
So, how could there ever be a dark side?
Well, first of all, most perfectionist character roles are at the end pretenders or people who have used organization to hide pain. But what else? Not all perfectionist actually get all parts of their lives together. Most perfectionists are high procrastinators.
Research has shown a correlation between perfectionism and procrastination.
Perfectionists often delay tasks due to a fear of not meeting their high standards, leading to heightened stress and reduced productivity (Flett, Hewitt, & Dyck, 1989; Steel, 2007).
So, perfectionist procrastinate on their goals 90% of the time, rehashing over the plans, finding faults and mistakes until as they often say “get it to be perfect” and that never really happens. Before one’s level of motivation spans out, you probably would have not reached actualization or prototype stage.
Perfectionism and Procrastination work too well when they’re in the ring with you.
So, how do you get out of this mess?
Forget that you’re a perfectionist
No one has ever been one, we all have mistakes and that is what makes us humans. You should learn to come in terms with that fact.
Forgive yourself
For the past, for the projects left uncompleted, the feelings left unchecked and learn once again to let go and take one step at a time. Letting go of the old, let’s the new things in.
Work with people
Learn to work with others, the time you might spend overthinking, might take you less of the time when you work with a team, rub ideas with a few great minds who won’t be so judgmental. In other words, get or find accountability, it will help you stay in check and on track with your goals.
Take a break
When you realize that your mind has started folding back into it’s state of wanting things to be perfect first before taking the next step, take a break off work and remind yourself that perfect isn’t real. Focus on excellence (adding value) than the mental expectation you’ve placed on yourself.
Most times, being a perfectionist isn’t about what you do. It’s about the expectations you’ve placed on your own self. Focus on your goals and choose excellence instead.
Take charge of your week and be proactive.
