Do you know what is perfectionism? Have you ever crossed your path with perfectionists? If not, then you might know about their possible traits. Despite the word being impressive, perfectionists can also share some negative characteristics that tend to harm their thoughts and actions. It is a seemingly charmful behavior found today that can also negatively impact.
So if you are wondering who perfectionists are and how they behave, you are at the right place. This article will walk you through different aspects of perfectionism. Reading this post, you will have a more profound idea of how perfectionism affects humans regarding their behavior and actions.
What is Perfectionism?
Perfectionism is a behavior found in humans that prompts them to behave perfectly. This behavior forces them to speak, act, think, and perform flawlessly. Although it is primarily associated with a positive trait, perfectionism can have its shared disadvantages and lead to some problematic characteristics.
I have seen many people who term their behavior “healthy perfectionism.” they do this to justify their behavior without knowing that it can be unhealthy sometimes too. So if you are interested in exploring perfectionists’ possible behavioral patterns, continue reading.
Perfectionism in History
In the history of philosophy, perfectionism has been regarded highly. Many philosophists have thought it positively governs human behaviors, decisions, and actions. The past ethical theories suggest that perfectionism helps people exercise their best capabilities and yields great results.
Aristotle laid the foundation for a good life and promoted good behaviors and actions that have given rise to perfectionism today. People now are more concerned about their actions and find perfectionism in their daily targets and activities.
Who are Perfectionists?
Perfectionists try to organize every behavior and action around perfectionism. It means they are people who seek perfection in everything.
So the next time someone asks you what is perfectionism, I am sure you will be able to answer it accurately. And if you wish to know more about them, consider the following traits:
The Traits of Perfectionists
If you have ever sought answers to questions like Are Perfectionists Intelligent?, Can perfectionists be messy? Are perfectionists more successful? Then we congratulate you because this section will discuss traits exclusive to perfectionists.
- Perfectionists are very critical of themselves and their surroundings. They are quick to highlight errors and propose solutions.
- They can not accept failure. They either take perfection or nothing.
- They set their goals from the beginning and do not forget their track until they accomplish their targets.
- Perfectionists have a fear of blame, rejection, and shame. Therefore, they strive their best to produce the best results.
- They quickly lose faith once they are unable to meet their targets. Hence, we can expect anxieties in such people.
- Perfectionists do not accept constructive criticism. They instead become more defensive and avoid being highlighted.
- People who can not accept less-than-perfect performance tend to procrastinate because they fear failure.
- Perfectionists rarely find self-esteem because they are usually critical of their performances.
Jobs for Perfectionists
A perfectionist can effortlessly seek any profession because they can reach the solutions and result flawlessly. Therefore they can pursue any career. They are focused, driven, and result-oriented, so I cannot think of any worst jobs for perfectionists. Any job is suitable for them if they have focus and motivation.
The Downside of Perfectionism
Although perfectionism sounds like a positive idea, stressing more than necessary about being perfect can lead you to destructive impacts.
Perfectionism and Suicidal Ideation
Perfectionism is sometimes associated with suicidal ideation because it eliminates patience and endurance in people. The idea of remaining perfect is itself harmful. So when people fail despite the constant struggle, they have an increased urge to attempt suicide.
Toxic Perfectionism
According to their nature, their actions are more driven by perfectionism, and they try to achieve it by every means. They continue making efforts until they do something perfectly. However, sometimes they might fail to realize that learning how to do something accurately is worth more than being able to achieve the desired result quickly.
Perfectionism and Mental Health
Perfectionistic usually stress their competitors. They tend to achieve less and stress more competing with other achievers. As a result, it harms their mental health, where they worry more about their insecurities and failure.
Time Management
Perfectionists cannot manage time because they focus more on doing a task perfectly. Therefore, they consume excessive time even though they can do that work instantly. However, many traits are commendable too.
Unhealthy Perfectionism
The constant urge to remain perfect characterizes unhealthy perfectionism. You might not know that this behavior can invite stress and anxieties.
FAQs
What is a perfectionist person like?
Perfectionist talks, think, behaves, and acts nicely and flawlessly. They are usually the role models for others and the center of attention in any event.
What is an example of perfectionism?
You can find perfectionists in your school where one student of the class tops in every exam and receives the praise of every teacher. They are one example of perfectionism. However, you can find many other examples too in your daily life.
Is perfectionism a mental disorder?
Not necessarily. But suppose your urge to behave perfectly rises immensely without you realizing how damaging it can be for your self-confidence and sanity. In that case, perfectionism can sometimes become a mental disorder where you disregard your peace while sustaining your image.
What causes perfectionism?
Many factors are responsible for developing perfectionist tendencies in human thoughts, behaviors, and actions. Some of them include societal pressure to behave perfectly, teachers teaching you how to be perfect, your parents asking you to act flawlessly, or societal standards influencing a person to be perfect.
Ending Note
Our previous habits of behaving perfectly, our history of high achievements, and our past accomplishments prompt us to sustain our perfectionist behavior. As a result, we engage in flawless behavior and try to flex our achievements. This behavior gives rise to perfectionism which demands humans to live up to their past tendencies.
I hope that you are now fully aware of what is perfectionism and what role it plays in our behavior. If some of your perfectionist habits disturb your peace of mind, try to manage them and modify how you behave mindfully.