The problem with perfection

Episode summary

Welcome back to the WorkWell Podcast! This week, Dulcie and Yemisi dive headfirst into that nasty "P-word" - perfectionism. They break down how perfectionism manifests, why it’s holding us back, and what we can do about it. From societal pressures to self-imposed standards, they explore how striving for perfection keeps us stuck and why embracing progress is the true game-changer.

If you’ve ever felt like you’re falling short despite your best efforts, this episode will help you stop chasing perfection and start making meaningful progress.

What we talked about:

- The five faces of perfectionism: self-oriented, other-oriented, socially prescribed, overt, and covert.

- How perfectionism impacts mental health, productivity, and relationships.

- Why societal norms, social media, and achievement culture fuel the perfectionist trap.

Tips for overcoming perfectionism:

1. Spot and challenge perfectionist thoughts: Face your inner critic with facts.

2. Set realistic goals: Use SMART or PACT frameworks to create achievable plans.

3. Embrace imperfection: Progress is better than perfect. Celebrate the small wins!

4. Practice self-compassion: Treat yourself with kindness—you're only human.

5. Reframe failure: Learn to see missteps as growth opportunities.

Try this: Good Enough Exercise

This week, pick one task where you feel pressure to be perfect. Define what “good enough” looks like, take one small action, and reflect on how it feels to focus on progress instead of perfection.

Resources mentioned:

The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron - https://amzn.to/3W0EDBD

Self-compassion worksheets by the Center for Clinical Interventions - https://www.cci.health.wa.gov.au/resources/looking-after-yourself/self-compassion

Headspace app - https://www.headspace.com/

Connect with us:

We’d love to hear how you’re shifting from perfection to progress! Email us at [e-mail] or share your stories with us on social media. Search for @thisisworkwell on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.

Next week’s episode:

Resilience is the name of the game. Join us as we discuss how to bounce back and move forward when life throws its curveballs.

Final note

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