Have you any of these questions come up for you…

• “What if it’s not good enough” (or What if I am not good enough)
• “This doesn’t look quite right, I need to fix it a little more”
• “I want to make sure I give my BEST work.”
• “I could’ve done that better”

What’s the Problem?

Trying to be “Perfect” can be phrased as being a “Perfectionist.” This is a waste of effort, time, and energy for a number of reasons. But the main reason is that no one is perfect – and if YOU are trying to be perfect, it ignores the role of subjectivity of other people. For example, you could work for days, weeks, and months to do the “perfect” project; but as soon as you turn in the project to a professor, you are at the mercy of their opinion!

Now, I am not saying that you should not put forth your best effort. I also support the idea of seeking support, advice, and feedback for these types of things. But the goal of completing the “perfect” project/essay/whatever adds stress on top of stress – and that is not a healthy thing to do. Perfectionism can often rob the person from learning along the way. Instead of gathering information and thinking about it – people who want to be perfect are only interested in getting the “right” information. They will ask specific questions, and ignore a lot of useful content if it does not fit within a small range of information that is deemed important. What about exploration and curiosity?

What’s the Solution?

Instead of being “Perfect,” seek progress. Learn something new, ask for a new perspective, and it is highly likely that your project/essay will not only meet standards, but you are also much more likely to enjoy the process.

Procrastionation goes with Perfectionism…

This form of Procrastination stems from not wanting to complete an assignment – or turn it in – until it is “good enough.” So we overthink the project, look up just “one more source,” or spend an incredible amount of time writing, re-writing, and editing. Before you know it, the deadline is dangerously close or has passed altogether.

Procrastination is like wrapping yourself in a nice warm comfortable blanket. You are warm and snug, but only while under the blanket. If you have to move, grab the remote, or go get something from the other room – there is a sense of dread and frustration because you are in the perfect position.

But don’t let procrastination keep you stuck. Life is about experiences, lessons, and learning – fight the urge to try being perfect and delaying the project. It may not be perfect, but early action can highlight what needs to be changed. Early action moves the ball forward in a way that you will become more confident and comfortable in taking risks. By taking action, you are sending the message that you are CONFIDENT and COMPETENT.

Wouldn’t that be nice.

Contact us for a free 30-minute consultation

Follow us on Instagram: @cliftonpsi

Join us on Facebook: Clifton Psychological Services, Inc.