In Good Company with Nicolai Tangen
Thomas Curran: Perfectionism: The Power Of Good Enough In A World That Always Wants More
Nov 1, 2023
Thomas Curran, a Professor at the London School of Economics and a leading expert on perfectionism, discusses the cultural implications of striving for perfection in modern society. He explores how social media drives unrealistic standards and the mental health crises they can trigger. Highlighting the Wabi Sabi philosophy, Curran advocates for embracing imperfection and promoting a 'good enough' mindset. He emphasizes the importance of valuing authenticity over flawless performance in workplaces, suggesting that fostering resilience and creativity leads to greater well-being.
41:04
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Quick takeaways
- Perfectionism arises from a sense of lack and the belief that we are not good enough or perfect enough, leading to a relentless pursuit of projecting an impeccable image to the world.
- There are three primary types of perfectionism: self-oriented, other-oriented, and socially prescribed, each with its own consequences and impact on mental health, workplace culture, and personal relationships.
Deep dives
Understanding Perfectionism: The Need to Overcome Deficits
Perfectionism stems from a sense of lack and deficiency within ourselves. It begins with the belief that we are not good enough or perfect enough. Perfectionists strive to hide, disguise, or repair what they perceive as their imperfect selves. This pursuit of perfection is driven by the desire to project an impeccable image to the world. This includes maintaining high standards and presenting flawless performances and appearances. However, this relentless quest for perfection is exhausting and does not necessarily lead to better results.
