The cost of perfectionism

Perfectionism is a highly valued trait in our culture, often associated with external success and praise. However, the internal cost of perfectionism is often overlooked. Perfectionists constantly shift the goalpost, leaving them unsatisfied and feeling inadequate. Perfectionism is strongly linked to mental health conditions, particularly eating disorders such as anorexia. The rigidity and high standards of perfectionism align with the strict control and self-critical nature of anorexia. Perfectionism can make eating disorders more severe and difficult to treat.