Myths of Perfectionism

Myths of Perfectionism


Myth 1- Perfectionists are usually happy and content about what they achieve.

Perfectionism does not lead to success and fulfillment. Although some perfectionists are remarkably successful, what they fail to realize is that their success has been achieved despite-not because of-their compulsive striving.

There incredibly high standard prevents them from enjoying their success.

Myths 2- If you want something done well, get a perfectionist for the job.

Perfectionists often have problems with procrastination, missed deadlines, and low productivity. There high standard interfere with completion.

Myths 3- Perfectionist take great pride in their work.

Although perfectionists follow an "I'll-keep-trying-until-it's-perfect" credo, they are especially vulnerable to potentially serious difficulties such as depression, writer's block, and performance and social anxiety.

Myth 4- Perfectionists just have this enormous desire to please others and to be the very best they can.

Perfectionist do have an intense desire to well but this drive is usually based on feelings of low self esteem and strong feelings of inadequacy. These negative feelings do not go away when the perfectionist performs well. These negative feelings remain and only drive the perfectionist toward higher achievements. It becomes a vicious circle.

Suggested Reading

Here are some resources to help if you feel perfectionism in interfering with your ability to enjoy life.

A Guide to Rational Living by Albert Ellis. Wilshire Book Co, 1998 (3rd revised edition).
Feeling Good: The New Mood Therapy by David D. Burns. Wholecare, 1999 (revised edition).
How to Get Control of Your Time and Your Life by Alan Lakein. New York: New American Library, 1996.
I've Done So Well-Why Do I Feel So Bad? by Celia Halas & Roberta Matteson. New York, Ballantine, 1987 (reissue edition). (11/02)