Escaping Perfectionism

Rising Trends

Perfectionism is on the rise, particularly among younger generations, with a 40% increase since 1989. Thomas Curran highlights that this trend is linked to negative mental health outcomes like depression and anxiety 1. Despite its negative impact, society often celebrates perfectionism as a desirable trait, viewing it as a necessary evil for success. Curran explains, "Perfectionism is something that I think in modern society is lionized, celebrated" 1. This societal perception is evident in job interviews where candidates frequently cite perfectionism as a flaw, reflecting its ubiquity and perceived value 1.

   

Social Pressure

Socially prescribed perfectionism, the belief that others expect us to be perfect, is increasing rapidly and is strongly linked to mental health issues. Curran describes it as a hidden epidemic fueled by social media, educational pressures, and competitive workplaces 2. This form of perfectionism leads to a constant need to curate a flawless image, which is mentally exhausting. Curran notes, "It's a perfectionism that comes from outside, a sense that everybody and all around me expects me to be perfect" 2. The pressure to meet these external expectations can result in anxiety, depression, and a sense of hopelessness among young people 2.

   

Paradox & Pitfalls

The perfectionism paradox reveals that the fear of failure often leads to self-sabotaging behaviors, such as withholding effort or procrastination. Curran explains that perfectionists may avoid trying to protect their self-image, which ultimately hinders performance 3. This behavior is counterproductive, as perfectionists often work hard but not smart, ignoring diminishing returns on their efforts. Curran states, "They push themselves well beyond comfort into a zone of declining and diminishing returns" 4. This relentless pursuit of unattainable goals can lead to burnout and a perpetual sense of inadequacy 4.