Breaking Free of Perfectionism

We live in a world where nothing is ever good enough. Everything needs to be faster, better, more meaningful, and more convenient. This fanatical obsession with perfection has bled over into our professional lives. “Is that the best you can do?” is a constant, nagging question. Of course, there is something to be said for having high standards. We strive to have a healthy work ethic, and we want to take pride in what we produce at the end of the day; however, perfectionism does not always benefit us in the workplace. In fact, it can often hinder us. So what can be done when perfectionism is holding you back? How do you know that you’ve crossed the line from taking pride in your work into internalizing negative habits and self-defeating practices? For one, you’re likely to be your own worst critic. Perfectionists often suffer from anxiety and depression rooted in the stress that comes from their self-imposed expectations. If you find yourself in this situation, try to shift from an “everything matters” mindset to a frame of mind that allows you to prioritize what matters most. This way you can focus on priorities and not be bogged down in minutia. By breaking away from perfectionism, you will become more resilient, reduce feelings of burnout, and be better able to maintain a healthy work-life balance.