How to Control Perfectionism

Perfectionism is an addiction to being perfect. It causes many people to strive to be absolutely perfect in everything that they do. Perfectionism causes unnecessary anxiety and low self-esteem. Follow these steps to learn how to control your perfectionism.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Realize that you don't have to be perfect at everything you do. Human beings make mistakes, learn from them and move on. There is no reason to beat yourself up over little slip-ups.
2. Accept yourself for who you are. Learn to love yourself for who you are and not who you think you should be.
3. Tolerate imperfection in yourself and others. Human beings were meant to be unique and not perfect. The world would be a boring place if everybody was perfect.
4. Strive to be excellent in one or two areas that are important to you. In everything else just try to be good enough. When you relax and stop trying to be perfect, you will make fewer mistakes.
5. Develop a good social support system. Good friends will let you know when you are trying to achieve unrealistic expectations. They can also help build up your self esteem and keep you from beating yourself up.
6. Recognize that any positive progress you make is a step in the right direction. Keep realistic goals and realize that you aren't going to be able to change over night.
7. Seek professional help if you feel increasingly depressed by your inability to control your perfectionism. There are many people who need help from time to time and it is fine to recognize that you can't do it alone.