HBR IdeaCast Dealing with Perfectionism
215 snips
Jan 7, 2025 
Ellen Hendriksen, a clinical psychologist at Boston University's Center for Anxiety and Related Disorders and author of 'How to Be Enough,' dives into the complexities of perfectionism. She discusses its dual nature—how it fuels success yet can lead to dissatisfaction and strained relationships. Hendriksen shares insights on balancing high standards with self-care, the risk of growth stifled by fear, and the impact of perfectionism on collaboration in the workplace. Her practical advice encourages self-compassion and flexibility, promoting healthier professional dynamics.
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Perfectionism Misunderstood
- Perfectionism is not about striving for perfection, but rather a constant feeling of inadequacy.
- It's a silent epidemic, manifesting as feelings of failure and being overwhelmed, not as a desire for flawlessness.
Over-Evaluation and Self-Worth
- Over-evaluation is a key component of unhealthy perfectionism.
- It involves linking self-worth to performance, leading to the belief that "doing good means being good."
Making Room for Mistakes
- Instead of lowering standards, make room for mistakes.
- Reframe self-perception to include flaws, like "I'm a good doctor who sometimes makes misdiagnoses."
