Do you work or live with someone who are perfectionists and want everything to be “just right?” Or perhaps you are the one who says, “Nah, it’s not ready yet. I still need to make it better.”
Where, oh where, do you think that yearning to be perfect comes from?
Above all, it’s from fear of someone judging or ridiculing you. In addition, it’s about that dang internal self-critic that wont let up and never says, “Hey, remember, good enough is good enough.”
Therefore, any true perfectionist will do the following to limit stress.
What are Perfectionist Tendencies?
To clarify, here’s what those who desire to live without any flaws do. They… ta dah…do nothing.
That’s right, do you want to keep stress at bay? Simply do nothing at all.
That is the quickest way to limit stress. You can chill, watch Netflix, and munch pop corn or whatever you prefer.
Perfectionism to Procrastination
However, as a result of avoiding anything that is not perfect you invite in stress’s first cousin: shame.
The longer you procrastinate, the more that shame will remind you that you are wasting time.
Soon, you will hear that inner voice asking “What is the matter with you? You must be a loser, loser.”
And then, you give yourself a pep talk and say “Okay, it’s time to reorganize. I’ll just take a few deep breaths and get on with it.”
Subsequently, you decide to grab more snack food and get ready to binge watch Schitt’s Creek.
Stress and Anxiety
But, those seemingly relaxing, stress reduced days are coming to an end.
Why?
Inevitably, when you avoid and avoid, there comes a time when everyone around you is demanding you pull yourself together.
You know you’re disappointing people as well as yourself and stress goes through the roof.
While your project is languishing, all your self- judgment creates over the top negative emotions.
Stop the Cycle
Think about a roller coaster ride. It goes up and down and feels like it will never end. Yet, it finally does.
Same with the perfectionist/procrastinator cycle.
The good thing about cycles is that they can be managed. In fact, with a bit of strength training, they can be conquered.
First Things First
Firstly, your task is to tackle perfectionism. When you do that you’re less likely to procrastinate.
After you find the clues behind your fear of making mistakes, of not being good enough, you are on your way to a next level of emotional freedom.
Moreover, you projects begin to complete in half the time. You end up feeling better and more positive.
No longer, do you say to yourself “Am I lazy? What’s the matter with me” “Why do I repeat and repeat old, outdated habits?”
Kick Analysis Paralysis to The Curb
I am here to tell you why perfectionists become procrastinators. Subsequently, I want to offer a suggestion on how to break the cycle.
Step back and pay attention. Instead of checking all the boxes for perfection, take a break. Go outside and either sit or walk. Count your breaths or count your steps. It works both ways. Do this for 5 minutes.
Stay focused.
ONLY think about what you are doing, right now. Nothing else.
This basic aspect of mindfulness helps. Want more? Here are some books to aid you in your search for well being.
You may also want to take the Stress Busters Quiz to see how you rank in overall stress and anxiety.
Moving Forward
To sum it up, rest assured there are millions of people in every culture who struggle with the desire to do everything just right. Here are your two major choices: You can be either “perfectly imperfect” or Imperfectly perfect.”
In conclusion, please consider making the changes for your own health. You time at work becomes more productive and you have more energy for fun when you get home.
To your success,
Sylvia
PS If you are ready, there is a big discount for the STRESS BUSTERS PROGRAM. Sign up now and as a bonus you get a breakthrough coaching session.
