TED Talks Daily Our dangerous quest to perfect ourselves | Thomas Curran
Mar 14, 2019
In this insightful discussion, personality psychologist Thomas Curran unpacks the detrimental effects of perfectionism on mental health, especially among young individuals. He highlights how social media and societal pressures contribute to unrealistic standards, fostering rising anxiety and depression. Curran shares stories like that of a struggling student and advocates for a cultural shift that embraces our imperfections. The conversation emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance and resilience in combating the quest for unattainable perfection.
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Perfectionism's Paradox
- Perfectionism, often seen as a flaw, is surprisingly common and even admired.
- This societal admiration prevents us from questioning the concept of perfection itself.
Perfectionism and Mental Health
- Perfectionism doesn't guarantee success; it often leads to dissatisfaction and mental health issues.
- Rising perfectionism correlates with increased mental illness in young people.
Societal Pressures and Perfectionism
- Modern society's emphasis on choice, freedom, and the 'perfect life' fuels perfectionism.
- Social media amplifies the pressure to appear perfect, prioritizing image over reality.