What is an Imperfectionist?

“Perfectionism, in psychology, is a personality trait characterized by a person’s striving for flawlessness and setting excessively high performance standards, accompanied by overly critical self-evaluations and concerns regarding others’ evaluations.” – Wikipedia.com

• Perfectionists are workaholics because they find it difficult to be happy with their work unless it meets a very high standard.
• Perfectionists procrastinate to avoid completing tasks that may be substandard.
• Perfectionists avoid doing creative tasks, like art and music where opinions make be subjective.
• Perfectionists avoid vulnerability and love due to fear of rejection.
• Perfectionists are confident and outgoing even if they are actually afraid and introverted.
• Perfectionists are full of guilt and shame because they cannot let go of the mistakes that they have made.
• Perfectionists are control freaks.
• Perfectionists have high stress and anxiety.
• Perfectionists have a high regard for their appearance yet have low self-esteem.
• Perfectionists live in a world of “I should” or “I wish” over “I am”  (e.g. I wish I was more beautiful over I am beautiful)
• Perfectionists say yes to everyone but themselves.
• Perfectionists do not know how to enjoy the moment because they are always concerned with past mistakes and future achievements.
• Perfectionists seek praise and gratitude from others but are rarely satisfied.
• Perfectionists suffer from depression and withdrawal and in worst cases, that can sometimes lead to suicide.

Whether a little or a lot, many of us struggle with perfectionism in some aspect of our lives. Here at The Imperfectionist, we share ideas and stories on embracing your inner Imperfectionist. From starting and finishing your creative projects, overcoming your fears and anxieties, and building the courage to move towards uncertainty, our stories are here to help you find your definition of success and fulfillment so that you can live a better, more meaningful life.

• Imperfectionists recognize the perfectionist tendencies in their behavior to overcome them.
• Imperfectionists understand the difference between perfection and high achievement.
• Imperfectionists embrace who they are by practicing “authenticity.”
• Imperfectionists try new things even if they may not be good at them.
• Imperfectionists understand their values.
• Imperfectionists make mistakes and learn to let them go.
• Imperfectionists learn the meaning of work life balance.
• Imperfectionists choose love over fear.
• Imperfectionists let go of control.
• Imperfectionists understand their limits and when to say no.
• Imperfectionists know how to show their weaknesses.
• Imperfectionists understand how to be happy for the successes and achievements of their colleagues and loved ones.
• Imperfectionists know how to embrace the moment and live a fulfilled life.