ADHD with Jenna Free EP. 6: Perfectionism: The Hidden Defense Mechanism & Why Your ADHD Brain Craves Impossible Standards | ADHD with Jenna Free
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May 5, 2025 Explore the intricate dance between perfectionism and ADHD, revealing how the fight or flight response fuels unrealistic standards. The discussion uncovers perfectionism as a defense mechanism rooted in insecurity and fear of failure. Listeners are encouraged to challenge their perfectionistic tendencies for better self-acceptance. Discover practical strategies to break free from the cycle of self-criticism and embrace imperfection. Ultimately, finding balance becomes key to enhancing productivity and well-being.
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Perfectionism Hinders Productivity
- Perfectionism is the need to do things perfectly or not at all, which can lead to not completing tasks or spending excessive time on them.
- This behavior often results in frustration and low productivity, highlighting perfectionism as a barrier rather than a benefit.
Perfectionism as Defense Mechanism
- Perfectionism is a defense mechanism rooted in the fight or flight response aimed at avoiding failure and criticism.
- Despite its heavy energy cost, it does not prevent failure or criticism and often leads to exhaustion and disappointment.
Internal Expectations Fuel Perfectionism
- Deepest expectations causing perfectionism often come from within, not external sources like bosses or coworkers.
- Lowering unrealistic internal standards can reduce frustration and energy spent chasing unattainable goals.