Perfectionism Doesn’t Eliminate Risk

I commonly struggle with perfectionism and I interact with a lot of entrepreneurs that do so as well.  I have it show up more in my personal life than in my business life but the same consequences apply.  Most of the time I believe that perfectionism is a defense mechanism. I am attempting to thwart risk.  More simply said, if I just do it perfectly, nothing bad will happen.

In identifying that at the core of perfectionism is a fear of risk, it is simple to dispel the logic behind this thinking. Then you can use what you know to help handle how you feel. When I find myself heightened emotionally in reaction to an attempt at that perfect solution, it is my cue to step back and assess whether enough is enough.  I also lock into my spiritual side at that point and ask God to help me with my fear.

As I have become better at stepping away from emotion and assessing what I know to be true, my sense of peace has increased and my decision-making has become more strategic.  I encourage you to explore what your cues are and develop adjustments that work for you.

Perfectionism burdens relationships, causes inefficiencies, and leads to poor decisions. There is also an emotional toll that you cause the people who love you to pay.  I say that from personal experience because it is one of my struggles in life.  If you tend to be a perfectionist, know that not only is it not serving you, it does not eliminate risk.  Good Luck.

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My friend, your blogs

My friend, your blogs sometimes hit home at exactly the time they’re needed. Thanks for the wisdom.

That post really made me go..

That post really made me go.. “hmmmmm”. Very interesting and very enlightening. I tend to aim for perfection way too often.

I can sit and work on a site

I can sit and work on a site until it’s “perfect” for days. Definitely something I struggle with. Thanks for the kick in the can on that one.

It must be in the air…

It must be in the air… I just wrote about perfectionism recently, too. It’s a bear, that’s for sure.

Great post. Inspired me to

Great post. Inspired me to make my own comments on this (and similar) barriers.

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Walter Reade (from Wisconsin)

Absolutely love the concept

Absolutely love the concept of your book. I suspect there is a tone in the “cyber-air” that is changing our experiences. Common courtesy, dismissing perfection, making life all about options not obligations.

Great post and good food for thought.