Problematic Perfectionism

What is problematic perfectionism?

Perfectionism is often seen as a good thing, but what happens when the costs outweigh the benefits? When you start to procrastinate and avoid due to a fear of making mistakes? When you can't stop mentally reviewing a situation where you thought you may have said or done something "wrong?"

Problematic perfectionism can be considered an obsessive-compulsive spectrum disorder. Problematic perfectionistic behaviors are typically motivated by fears of making mistakes and fears/beliefs that one is "not good enough." One little mistake can result in a whole lot of self-shaming. Taking on tasks can seem overwhelming, due to self-imposed expectations, resulting in avoidance, then self-criticism for the avoidant behavior. Perfectionism can also include behaviors of overcontrol, including rehearsing conversations, working excessively, checking and rechecking work, mentally reviewing, and asking for reassurance.