Perfectionism is not a pathology
In Maslow’s prescription for self-actualization, he invites counselors to encourage what others might discourage: perfectionistic zeal.
Dr. Linda Silverman • Perfectionism: the Crucible of Giftedness
Perfection: Aristotelian concept of perfection as “potential fully actualized” ; as excellence in the exercise of one’s capacities and the realization of one’s carefully chosen ideals... human beings are fully actualised when they are functioning as builders.
Gena Gorlin • The quest for psychological perfection
The obsession with statistical norms has turned psychology into a system for pathologizing difference. Any deviation from statistical norms is labeled a "disorder." Instead of understanding the full spectrum of human experience, we rush to correct it.
This is precisely what Jung fought against.3 He saw this for what it was: not science, but... See more
This is precisely what Jung fought against.3 He saw this for what it was: not science, but... See more
Laura London • In Defense of Carl Jung: Beyond Scientific Dogma
Trying to get rid of your perfectionism is like trying to get rid of the wind by whacking it with a broom. Perfectionism is too powerful for an eradication approach. When you try to get rid of your perfectionism, all you’re doing is hemorrhaging energy at the opportunity cost of attending to your wellness.
Katherine Morgan Schafler • The Perfectionist's Guide to Losing Control
procrastination is not a character defect; rather, it is an attempt—albeit an unsatisfactory one—at coping with the often incapacitating fear of having our worth held up for judgment.
Neil Fiore • The Now Habit: A Strategic Program for Overcoming Procrastination and Enjoying Guilt-Free Play
is your perfectionism coming from fear or from love?
love-based perfectionism sounds like:
- "I want to make this better"
- "I can see how beautiful this could be"
- "it'd be even more fun if I could do it this way"
fear-based perfectionism sounds like:
- "I need to make this better"
- "I'm scared to put bad work into the world"
- "I'd finally feel relief... See more
love-based perfectionism sounds like:
- "I want to make this better"
- "I can see how beautiful this could be"
- "it'd be even more fun if I could do it this way"
fear-based perfectionism sounds like:
- "I need to make this better"
- "I'm scared to put bad work into the world"
- "I'd finally feel relief... See more
scott 🌞 • Tweet
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
Perfection as we typically think about it should be treated more as a way to focus our attention rather than a final accomplishment that we attain.