34 — Stop Being a Perfectionist and Embrace Your Imperfections with Professor Thomas Curran

Perfectionism takes a serious toll on your mental health and well-being. It's often driven by the fear of not being good enough and involves a desire to get validation from others. It often leads to anxiety, depression, and loneliness.

Fortunately, there are some things that can help you give up the need to appear perfect. Thomas Curran, a psychology professor and the author of The Perfection Trap, shares how addressing perfectionism can improve your mental health and lead to a happier life.

Some of the things he talks about are:

• The link between perfectionism and increased risk of mental health issues.
• Why perfectionists tend to feel lonely.
• Why perfectionism is a spectrum.
• Why perfectionism can lead to self-sabotage and an inability to derive satisfaction from success.
• How social media can contribute to perfectionism.
• Why overcoming perfectionism requires a shift in mindset.
• How embracing imperfections and being willing to make mistakes can lead to personal growth and success.
• How letting go of perfectionism can actually improve performance and creativity.

Sign up for Mentally Stronger Premium - Ask Amy questions, get exclusive bonus episodes, and access to the Mentally Stronger private community.

Pick up a copy of The Perfection Trap

Thomas' website - https://www.thomascurran.co.uk/

Email the show - Podcast@AmyMorinLCSW.com

Check out my books on mental strength

Follow Amy on Instagram - @AmyMorinAuthor

Pre-order 13 Things Mentally Strong Couples Don't Do and get a free month of therapy at BetterHelp

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices