GYLTG 363: “Flawed” Perfectionist, Listen Up with Dr. Greg Chasson

Do you consider yourself a perfectionist? If so, is it you a silent saboteur or is it your secret weapon? Dr. Greg Chasson, the authority on perfectionism and author of “Flawed Why Perfectionism is a Challenge for Management” and I sat down to unpack perfectionism. It’s often misunderstood as merely striving for excellence; however, it can push us to an healthy ambition into excessive self-expectations. Dr. Chasson explains that these expectations can stem from societal pressures or be projected onto others—creating a vicious cycle of unattainable goals followed by emotional devastation when those goals aren't met. We explore how perfectionism manifests in our lives, from societal pressures to personal expectations, and offer simple tools to help shift the focus.

Let’s dive in!

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Understanding Perfectionism:

• Definition and how it manifests in our lives.

• Three core themes:

  1. Self-imposed expectations

  2. Projected perfectionism onto others

  3. Societal pressures

The Impact of Perfectionism:

1. How it can stop us from taking risks and make accomplishments feel inadequate.

2. The trifecta effect when all three forces combine leading to a destructive cycle.

Origins of Perfectionist Tendencies:

1. Early signs in childhood reinforced by societal norms.

2. Middle school as a common boiling point where responsibilities increase but perfectionistic tendencies persist.

Identifying & Managing Perfectionism:

1. Recognizing signs through behavior patterns like exhaustive to-do lists.

2. Emphasis framework for task prioritization (A – give your all; B – just get it done; C – not at all).

Cognitive Inflexibility & Rigidity: Challenges faced due to rigid thinking patterns preventing adaptation or change.

Strategies for Overcoming Perfectionism:

1. Exposure therapy practices such as completing tasks imperfectly on purpose.

2. Understanding opportunity costs related to health, relationships, and time management.

Control vs Flexibility

1. Illusion of control associated with anxiety versus perceived lack of control in depression.

2. Importance of balancing control by focusing on what truly matters according to personal values.

Insightful Quotes By Dr. Chasson:

"Perfectionism is not your friend; it's an absolute barrier to success."

"You can't have everyone like you—life’s about falling on your face sometimes."

“What’s the opportunity cost? What do we sacrifice in pursuit of perfection?”

“It comes down to understanding what's within our control—and often letting go is the best use.”

Actionable Takeaways:

1. Reflect on areas where perfectionistic behaviors manifest most strongly in your life using self-awareness tools like journaling or cognitive-behavioral techniques

2. Practice exposure exercises that challenge you gradually towards accepting imperfection without judgment or fear—start sm