Goal Orientation

Perfectionists tend to set goals of unreasonable excellence with no learning curve or room for error.

Dividing your goals into more achievable steps and rewarding yourself when you achieve them, will make you less stressed, less likely to give up and more forgiving of mistakes.

Perfectionists tend to be very self-critical but this can perpetuate unhealthy behaviors and decrease their self-esteem.

By altering your self-talk positively, you can better enjoy life and gain an increased appreciation for yourself and your work.

A possible explanation of why people develop unhealthy perfectionism is that they grow up without a sense of support, safety, and nurturing. Another reason can be a reaction to childhood trauma or extreme cultural expectations, where appearing perfect is a strategy for survival.

The consequence of destructive perfectionism is often deep-seated emotional difficulties and unresolved traumatic experiences that might eventually turn into a potentially severe depression.

1. Your perfectionism is fueled by a constant, critical inner voice of intense shame or fear.
2. You demonstrate an excessive sense of responsibility and look for solutions.
3. You are unable to accept and express painful emotions.
4. You dismiss or discount abuse or trauma.
5. You worry a lot and avoid situations where you're not in control.
6. You are highly focused on tasks and expectations and validate yourself with your accomplishments.
7. You have an active and sincere concern for the wellbeing of others, while seldom allowing anyone into your inner world.
8. You feel you have to acknowledge your gratitude.
9. You have emotional difficulty with personal intimacy.
10. You might have anxiety and control issues, such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), generalised anxiety disorder (GAD), panic and eating disorders.