The Hidden Toll of Extreme Perfectionism on Health

We need to understand that perfectionism isn't limited to just one area of your life like personal expectations, professional advancements too. Extreme perfectionism often leads to negative physical and mental side effects, even if the desire for excellence can drive us.

What is pathological perfectionism?

Extreme perfectionism is different from just wanting to do well; it consists of setting impossibly high standards for yourself and often feeling not enough or a failure if you fail. This type of mentality can be a way to an endless circle of worry and frustration. The people engaging in this behavior might become stuck that the constant pursuit of unrealistic goals has very real results on their health.

The Impact on Mental Health

Extreme perfectionism can result in severe mental health issues. It can result in additional stress, anxiety and depression for people. The need for perfection is ultimately what can cause so much self hatred and feelings of not being good enough. Also, perfectionists are usually quite negative in their self talk and just furthers the affective catastrophe.

Physical Health Consequences

Striving for that high of a benchmark can wear on one physically as well. Chronic stress is related to physical health problems like headache, insomnia, constipation or diarrhea and an increased risk of getting sick. And when prioritizing their goals over caring for themselves perfectionists can more neglect activities that contribute to health, such as exercise, nutrition and rest.

Overcoming Perfectionism

The first step in curbing the negativity of perfectionistic tendencies, then, is recognizing their presence. Below are strategies that can aid in freeing yourself from this mindset:

1. Set Realistic Goals
Don't try and be perfect, set achievable goals. Hard work should take the lead, start by dividing larger tasks in to small piece of possible. That way, you can recognize victories along the way instead of merely waiting for a destination.

2. Embrace Mistakes
Recognize that everyone makes mistakes; it is part of the learning process. Instead of taking errors as a mark, turn it around to view them all the time an chance for us to learn. It takes some of the pressure off, thinking in this light.

3. Practice Self-Compassion
Be kind to yourself. Celebrate what you have done and realize that it is impossible to do everything. Practicing self-compassion can really support and lead to a more grounded understanding of yourself as well as lessen the strength that perfectionistic thoughts hold onto you.

4. Seek Support
It can be helpful to share your emotions with someone if they are strong. Whether that is with a friend, family member or mental health professional — talking about your troubles can bring relief and new perspective.

Conclusion

On the one hand, it sounds amazing: who would not want ask for more perfectionism in this world but on the other end of that sword extreme is something dark and scary because while looking good seems high standard to live-out can be really harmful both mentally as well physically. By recognizing the harms and learning how to reduce perfectionistic tendencies, we may begin to place our wellness above unreasonable expectations. And as always, imperfect is totally fine – it's about being real and looking after you.