Perfectionism is easy to see on someone. Physically it is a rigidity in the musculature and there can be stunted tones in the voice. Mentally they are often second-guessing themselves, hesitant, and overly precise.
As a unitary construct, perfectionism indiscriminately mingles idealism, introversion, preoccupation with one's flaws, fear of not being able to live up to others' expectations, and making unfair demands of others.
Dr. Linda Silverman • Perfectionism: the Crucible of Giftedness
Perfectionism is, at its core, about trying to earn approval. Most perfectionists grew up being praised for achievement and performance (grades, manners, rule following, people pleasing, appearance, sports). Somewhere along the way, they adopted this dangerous and debilitating belief system: I am what I accomplish and how well I accomplish it. Plea
... See moreBrené Brown • Dare to Lead: Brave Work. Tough Conversations. Whole Hearts.
In actuality, perfectionism must be seen as a potent force capable of bringing intense pain, frustration and paralysis, or incredible satisfaction and creative contribution, depending upon how it is channeled. It has the potential to lead to professional fulfillment and spiritual development, but if the energy is diverted by self-doubt and lack of
... See moreDr. Linda Silverman • Perfectionism: the Crucible of Giftedness
Ellen Hendriksen • “If I Let Go of Perfectionism I Won’t Be as Good as I Am Now.”
perfectionism is a personality trait in which we constantly see the gap between how things are and how they could be (in ourselves, our environment, our relationships, and the world), and feel the compulsive drive to close that gap with our actions. perfectionists can’t just let it be. they are driven to make things better, even at high personal co
... See moreThe voices of perfectionism, self-doubt, and self-denigration are most often negative parental voices that we have internalized. The demand for perfectionism by the internalized judge makes even the simplest, most innocent mistakes into catastrophes for our self-esteem.
Eva Pierrakos • The Undefended Self: Living the Pathwork
They believe the tension “is me,” and cannot conceive of themselves without it. They may also have a rigidly correct posture — stiff and straight — rather than one that is more fluid or sensual.
Steven Kessler • The 5 Personality Patterns: Your Guide to Understanding Yourself and Others and Developing Emotional Maturity
Perfectionism is, at its core, about trying to earn approval and acceptance. Most perfectionists were raised being praised for achievement and performance (grades, manners, rule-following, people-pleasing, appearance, sports). Somewhere along the way, we adopt this dangerous and debilitating belief system: I am what I accomplish and how well I acco
... See more