Perfectionism often wears a disguise. It’s praised as a driver of high performance, but beneath the surface, it can lead to more harm than good. Research shows that while some forms of perfectionism, particularly those focused on personal standards, can push us towards excellence, the self-critical side of perfectionism is a different story.
The Science Behind Perfectionism
In a study of perfectionism in professionals, researchers found that perfectionism is associated with significant psychological impacts that can hinder performance. Perfectionistic tendencies often lead to heightened stress, anxiety, and procrastination, as individuals fear making mistakes- disrupting productivity and job satisfaction. This fear can also contribute to burnout, as the relentless pursuit of unattainable standards strains work-life balance and emotional wellbeing, ultimately reducing overall job effectiveness. You can read the study here.
For professionals, perfectionism frequently manifests as excessive attention to detail, reluctance to delegate and procrastination out of fear of inadequacy. We know – as the research suggests – this results in reduced efficiency and productivity, as perfectionists tend to get bogged down in minute details that prevent them from seeing the bigger picture.

Progress Over Perfection
Shifting the mindset from perfectionism to progress is crucial for breaking this cycle. By focusing on making consistent improvements rather than achieving flawless results, individuals can still perform well without the emotional toll that comes with unattainable expectations. Embracing a ‘progress over perfection’ mentality allows for creativity, adaptability, and resilience – all of which are essential for long-term success.
How to Combat Perfectionism
Set Realistic Goals: Break large projects into manageable tasks and set attainable goals. Perfectionists often set their sights too high, leading to unnecessary stress and frustration.
Accept Mistakes as Learning Opportunities: Mistakes are part of the growth process. Rather than seeing them as failures, view them as valuable lessons that lead to improvement.
Use Mindfulness and PQ Reps: Practising mindfulness through techniques like PQ reps can help perfectionists stay grounded and focus on the present moment, reducing the anxiety associated with perfectionism. This sensory-based method allows you to disengage from negative thought patterns and realign with your goals.
Celebrate Small Wins: Acknowledge your progress along the way. Taking note of small accomplishments can motivate you to keep moving forward, without the need for everything to be perfect.
Perfectionism can feel like a path to success, but research suggests that it’s often a road to burnout instead. By adopting a healthier mindset focused on progress and self-compassion, you can still achieve excellence – without the stress.
If you’re ready to overcome perfectionism and unlock your full potential, connect with me at Daily Bliss. Together, we’ll create a personalised plan to help you embrace progress and thrive, both personally and professionally. Book you free 30 minute Connect Session today.