We talk about perfectionism as a bad thing and don’t get me wrong it can certainly hinder you. There are however some positives to it as well. I share both the blessings and curse if you too have been called a perfectionist or see yourself as a one.
It is a blessing when…
You have to show close attention to detail
You are brilliant at dotting the i’s and crossing the t’s, nothing goes uncovered. This is a sought after skill in many areas of life and a benefit especially in the workplace.
You need to research something…
It will without doubt be thought through and thorough. However not all of it may make it down on paper, as we can get carried away with research and not translating that into action.
You need high quality output
It is true that some perfectionists are so focused on the parts that they can often miss the whole I.e. they don’t do so well on execution or in fact it isn’t executed at all. However, there are those who are so meticulous that you can be sure that what is executed will be the very best possible. There won’t be, ‘let’s just get this out’ or ‘what will be, will be’. It will be intentional.
You care so much …
In a world where people are seeking to find something they actually care enough about, perfectionists can care too much. Yet, is that a bad thing? Caring so much ensures you do your utmost best for the people, organisation or world around you.
It is a curse when…
You don’t even start…
Getting started is the hardest thing for a perfectionist. There’s always something you’ll need or have to complete first. Is the day sunny? Are you in the mood? We know however that setting a habit in action can ensure that you do start and override the fear of not getting it right.
You focus on the wrong things…
It is great when you are now rolling and taking action however it can come to a halt just as quickly when you suddenly focus all your attention on things that don’t matter, or that will slow your progress. You can often be weighed down by challenges rather than lifting yourself up by finding solutions.
You don’t understand or see the pattern…
As a perfectionist it is key to know what you typically do, in order to prevent self-sabotage. You can then stop and say to yourself, how do I change this behaviour? It’s also really important to embrace the fact that you won’t get everything right and starting and stopping isn’t failing. In fact, I’d go as far to say that it’s essential to becoming a better you.
Can you relate to any of these? How do you see it – a blessing or a curse?