Perfectionism

Advantages of Perfectionism:

• I'll work hard.
• When I do great work, I'll feel terrific.
• I won't settle for mediocrity and end up with a second-rate career.
• My exceptionally high standars will show that I'm a very special and extremely talented person, and that I'm a cut above other people.  After all, we wouldn't expect someone who's just average to be perfect!
• My Perfectionism gives me an easy way to measure my self-esteem.
• Other people will admire me because I'm so hard working and conscientious.

 Disadvantages of Perfectionism:

• My perfectionism may create lots of stress and worry.
• When I fail or make a mistake, it will feel devastating.
• My perfectionism may prevent me from being creative and taking risks, since I'll be afraid of failure.
• It will be hard to learn from criticism because I'll feel threatened and defensive. My self-esteem will always be on the line.  This may annoy other people.
• I often do my best work when I'm relaxed and not trying so hard.
• I may lose sight of the bigger picture because I'll focus on all the small details.
• I don't get along very well with others people when I get perfectionistic and demanding.
• People seem to like me more when I express an interest in them, and not when I'm trying to impress them with my own accomplishments.
• I may procrastinate because every task will seem overwhelming.
• I'll never feel like I've succeeded because I'll never really be perfect at anything. There will always be room for improvement.