What Is Perfectionism?
Above and beyond is expected and anything less than perfect feels like underachieving.
You feel like you are never working hard enough and become discouraged when you are not doing things perfectly.
You’re worried that people will not love you, employ you, or want to be around you if you are not able to perform.
It’s overwhelming when you say the wrong thing, receive constructive feedback, or don’t perform highly.
Where perfectionism shows up
Relationships
You tip toe around other people and have a fear of upsetting others. Sharing problems makes you feel inadequate and like a burden. It’s hard to speak your mind and assert your boundaries. You are constantly afraid that you said the wrong thing and worry that everyone will leave you.
Work
You work long hours and take on too much responsibility. Everyone thinks you’re dependable and have no trouble pushing off their responsibilities to you. Reaching your goals feels satisfying for a moment, but then you feel the need to continue achieving.
Self
Your self-esteem and value is tied to your performance. When you are achieving, you feel good about yourself and secure in your relationships. When you struggle, you hide yourself and try working harder. You often avoid trying things you are not already good at and avoid looking incompetent.
Therapy can help you
Start feeling like you are enough.
Develop boundaries with others and avoid burnout from overperforming.
Feel more confident in the value you bring to the table.
Learn how to take responsibility for yourself and avoid doing the work of others.
Separate your innate value as a person from your performance.
Struggling with perfectionism? Let’s talk about how I can help.
Joe@nashvilletherapy.co
(615) 268-3344
346 21st Ave N
Nashville, TN 37203