Many adults with ADHD struggle with perfectionism. And that's the topic of this week's podcast.

How do we thrive as adults with ADHD without letting perfectionism get in our way?

Let's discuss the dilemma of perfectionism and adult ADHD.

Dr. Tara Cousineau is the guest on this episode of Overcoming Distractions and author of the book The Perfectionist's Dilemma. She is also the author of the "Kindness Cure" and has joined us on the podcast several times.

Trained at Harvard Medical School, she's a part-time staff psychologist at Harvard University's Counseling and Mental Health Service.

Dr. Cousineau describes herself as a recovering perfectionist, and because of that, she discusses why she decided to write The Perfectionist's Dilemma.

Dr. Cousineau gives us a basic definition of what she feels perfectionism is.

Dave and Dr. Cousineau discuss how we can find more balance, peace and joy by tackling perfectionism. And how we can cultivate a better relationship with ourselves.

Dr. Cousineau also discusses the following with Dave.

Where is perfectionism rooted? Is it a fear of judgment, etc…? People pleasing?
Are we born as perfectionists, or is this learned behavior?
Perfectionism is more than just work. We also see this in social interactions and in other areas of our life.
Can perfectionism cause anxiety and stress? Can it even lead to burnout?
Dr. Cousineau walks listeners through a beginning strategy to help minimize the challenges of perfectionism.

Find out more about the Perfectionist Dilemma including valuable resources here. And don't forget to purchase the book!

https://perfectionistsdilemma.com/

The Peaceful Perfectionist (Substack)

https://taracousphd.substack.com/

**Do you want to work with Dave one-on-one? Go to www.overcomingdistractions.com and book an introductory Zoom chat. Or go directly to Dave's calendar; https://calendly.com/davidgreenwood1/15min

Stephen Bezruchka, "Born Sick in the USA: Improving the Health of a Nation" (Cambridge UP, 2026)

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