Perfectionism gets a bad rap, it’s often blamed for stress, burnout, and unrealistic expectations. However, could this trait have an upside? Psychologists argue that not all perfectionism is created equal.
While toxic perfectionism can lead to anxiety and procrastination, a healthy dose of it might actually boost performance, motivation, and personal growth. Dr Gordon Flett, a leading researcher in perfectionism, distinguishes between two types: maladaptive (or negative) perfectionism and adaptive (or positive) perfectionism. He explains that maladaptive perfectionists set impossibly high standards and harshly judge themselves when they fall short, often leading to mental health struggles.
Adaptive perfectionists, on the other hand, use high standards as motivation while still allowing room for self-compassion and learning from mistakes, states the above doctor.
From a workplace perspective, perfectionism can be both a blessing and a curse. A study published in the Personality and Individual Differences journal found that adaptive perfectionists tend to be more conscientious, driven, and detail-oriented—traits that can contribute to professional success. However, it is mentioned that when perfectionism becomes obsessive, it can lead to fear of failure, procrastination, and reduced job satisfaction.
Interestingly, perfectionism can also play a role in health and fitness. Research from the International Journal of Behavioral Medicine suggests that individuals with adaptive perfectionist tendencies are more likely to stick to structured exercise routines, maintain a balanced diet, and strive for self-improvement. However, those who push themselves to unrealistic physical standards may develop issues like overtraining or disordered eating, according to the above journal.
So, is perfectionism a friend or foe? It depends on how it’s managed. The Harvard Business Review suggests cultivating a growth mindset, where high standards are seen as motivation rather than a rigid measure of self-worth. It is mentioned that practising self-compassion, setting realistic goals, and knowing when to step back can help harness perfectionism’s positive side while avoiding its pitfalls.
As clinical psychologist Dr Thomas Curran puts it, “Striving for excellence is not the problem—it’s the fear of failure that turns perfectionism toxic.” So, while chasing perfection can be exhausting, aiming for excellence with self-kindness might just be the secret to making perfectionism work in your favour.
