There are (2) types of perfectionists.
- Is the perfectionist that wears it like a badge of honor. They are proud of being a perfectionist because they feel like it sets a high standard and something that they can be proud of.
- The second is the perfectionist that doesn’t even realize they are one!
Here’s how to spot if you’re a perfectionist:
- Do you often find yourself procrastinating? That’s a symptom of being a perfectionist.
- Do you find yourself struggling with motivation to start a project? That’s a sign of being a perfectionist.
- After you start a project, do you find yourself struggling with finishing it?
- Or, if you finish a project do you struggle with sharing it with others?
- Lastly, do you have a hard time celebrating your successes?
These are all tendencies of being a perfectionist.
Here’s how perfectionism can have a negative impact on your life and/or business…
- Perfectionism sets you up for failure. Perfectionists tend to set unrealistic goals and expectations for themselves and others.
- Perfectionism can eat away your confidence and self-esteem. When you set unrealistic goals and expectations it’s likely that you won’t (or can’t achieve) the outcome you are seeking, therefore, you feel like you are letting yourself and others down.
- The reality is – you are enough. You are perfect.
- You can have standards of excellence, but do it in a way that you build confidence, feel accomplished, achieve your goals, lift others, take action and make healthy decisions for yourself and your business.
Quick story…
Years ago, I taught at a coaching school on this very subject.
One of the students came up to me after the class and shared how her whole life people had teased her about her perfectionist tendencies.
She actually thought it was a good thing to be a perfectionist! She thought being a perfectionist led to quality work, high standards, being a professional, feeling respected, and what was needed to reach her goals!
After the class, she realized that she was putting (way) too much pressure on herself, and (ashamedly) she admitted that carried those expectations over into her clients and other personal relationships.
As an example…
She often found herself avoiding setting goals in her life and business because she was afraid she wouldn’t achieve them – so, she’d rather not try.
After having the opportunity to work with her in that class, she shared these exact words…
“Kimberley helped me get a handle on some behaviors that clearly weren’t working; like never getting started on my fitness program because I may not do it perfectly.
In my coaching with clients, it has been a relief to see how much pressure I was putting on myself and my clients to get it right. As a perfectionist, I always took things personally.
Wow…what a lesson! What a damaging cycle to uncover!”
Guys…
Listen, as you were listening to this – if you are having an “ah-ha” moment like Janet did I want you to know, giving yourself permission to release the hold that perfectionism has had on your life.
All it takes is an understanding of:
- What it is…
- How to spot it…
- And some skills that can help you navigate and overcome the anxiety, stress, and fear that holds you back and steals your confidence.
If you find that you are always second-guessing yourself, you set goals that are unrealistic, and you have a voice in your head that’s always telling you that you’re not good enough I want to invite you to join me in my upcoming Live 3-Part Virtual Coaching Program where I will help you get unstuck and help you move your business forward with confidence!
You’ll find the link in the comments below. I hope to see you there!