Perfectionism: 6 consequences to watch out for

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‌Perfectionists often have a strong need to be more perfect and whole. However, in many cases, thisism doesn't actually make you better, but can lead you to engage in unhealthy behaviors along the way.

1. What is perfectionism?

In basic terms, perfectionism is the desire to be a perfect or perfect person in various aspects of one's inner or outer life. Perfectionism refers to the extremely high standards one has to achieve and the belief that the "perfect" self should be strived for. It is said to be an aspect of a person's personality.
Perfectionism will have both positive and negative consequences for you. On the encouraging side, perfectionism can be a motivating factor in achieving your goals, practicing self-improvement, performing at your best, and trying harder in your future endeavors. future efforts. People who practice perfectionism in a positive way are usually focused and achievement-oriented, which can help achieve many aspirations in life. However, many perfectionists often fall short of this trait and set standards that are too high, rigid, or unattainable. These ideals will easily set you up for failure, disappointment, and a negative self-evaluation.
Perfectionists are often self-critical and may even scrutinize other people's performance when it doesn't live up to their unrealistic standards. They are also overly concerned with how others see them, judging their self-worth by unattainable achievements.
Some people get so stressed out and demanding of perfection that they can't even start a task. An obsession with perfectionism or a fear of failure can lead to procrastination or never following through on what one sets out to achieve.
‌Some studies show that perfectionism has three components:
Self-directed perfectionism ‌No matter what type of perfectionist you have, you set harsh standards for yourself. You may think this is necessary to please yourself or others and be seen by others as perfect.

2. Perfectionism and Panic Disorder

The consequences of perfectionism will appear as many people struggle with the negative aspects of perfectionism. People with disorders such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), social anxiety disorder, and panic disorder, may even be more prone to perfectionism problems. Unrealistic expectations about themselves can lead to increased feelings of anxiety, dissatisfaction, and difficulty coping with symptoms.
Perfectionism is often the result of trying to live up to your inner ideals, but it can also be fueled by fear, such as worrying about how others perceive you. Beliefs and self-doubt can contribute to avoidance behaviors, loneliness and isolation, and even depression.
Perfectionism is often associated with negative thinking. For example, you may come to the conclusion that others would not accept you if they knew about your situation. Thoughts of self-blame make you believe it's your own fault that you can't meet the standards you've set for yourself. Negative thinking and perfectionism can lower your self-worth and make you feel unsuccessful.

3. Consequences to watch out for for perfectionists

3.1. Reduced productivity ‌One of the first consequences of perfectionism is procrastination. You might think that because perfectionists need things organized and in a certain way they are overworked. These kinds of thoughts lead to decreased productivity. That in turn causes more stress and vulnerability. ‌
When you're a perfectionist, for example, you might be an "all or nothing" type of person. When deadlines and events come up, you can view them as good or bad. You can get so caught up in whatever you're trying to be perfect that you end up failing to do it. Or you put off projects that are past due because you worry too much about them being perfect.
3.2. Increased Vulnerability ‌You are a perfectionist, and you put a lot of pressure on yourself. Or you notice pressure from people in your life or society. All of these compounds, can cause a lot of stress. In high-stress situations, you may be more prone to other problems. ‌
You may also be more susceptible to imposter syndrome when you compare yourself to others and feel like you don't fit, especially in terms of intelligence and can make you feel extremely low. These unhealthy comparisons can also keep you from doing your best at work or school.
3.3. Anxiety and depression Perfectionism can cause anxiety and depression. Because stress and anxiety build up when you don't meet the high standards you set for yourself, you can also become depressed. Some people may even hide feelings of anxiety and depression. ‌This can be extremely dangerous, especially if you are contemplating suicide or feel worthless. Negative emotions can be dangerous.
3.4. Physical Health Problems ‌Perfectionists may suffer from health and hygiene disorders. In some severe cases, such as eating disorders, orthorexia.

3.5. Stressful Relationships Another consequence of perfectionists is strained relationships with your family or friends, especially if you set your own high standards on your loved ones. This adds stress and pressure to your relationships and can cause them to fail.
3. 6. Doesn't exist ‌Another downside to the perfectionist mindset is that perfectionists often don't really exist in the present moment. Because you're worried or critical of what's going on around you, you're living in your head. You may worry about a future decision or reenact something that happened today. ‌

4. How to Overcome the Consequences of Perfectionism

Overcome Negative Thoughts Perfectionism is often fueled by habitual negative thoughts. You can overcome this thinking with the help of a psychotherapist, who can help you recognize these patterns, understand where they come from, and help you challenge unrealistic ideals. . Additionally, there are a number of self-help strategies that can temper your perfectionism.
Practice mindfulness Raise your self-awareness through mindfulness exercises. Mindfulness can allow you to clearly understand your thoughts about perfectionism, make you more aware of your perfectionism tendencies, and allow you to face these thoughts without reacting to them. . Through the practice of mindfulness, you can learn to let go and release the stress associated with perfectionism.
Improve self-confidence Perfectionism often negatively impacts a person's self-esteem. If you judge your self-worth by how perfectly you perform different roles in life, your self-esteem can plummet when goals and aspirations are not met. Instead of criticizing yourself, find ways to boost your self-esteem, such as getting social support, practicing self-care, and helping others in need.

Stress Reduction Perfectionism can be a huge contributing factor to your personal stress. Feeling stressed can drain you of energy, potentially increasing your anxiety and impacting your other panic symptoms. Release some of the stress associated with perfectionism and start feeling more comfortable now.
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Reference source: webmd, verywellmind