Attention to detail, hard work, and dedication are all positive qualities, and they are usually good to strive for. However, even the most positive qualities can be taken too far. When an overwhelming desire for perfect results is applied to everyday life, it can lead to unhealthy levels of pressure and stress.
Perfectionism is a personality trait that involves unrealistically high standards and expectations for oneself and others. It involves a relentless desire to get things right and extreme criticism when expectations aren’t met.
Women have to deal with unique societal expectations and pressures, which can lead to feelings of a deep need for perfection. Let’s learn more about perfectionism’s pressure on women.
Anxiety and Depression
It might seem counterintuitive, but anxiety caused by perfectionism can lead to a lack of motivation, procrastination, and depression. The constant pressure to achieve perfection can take a physical and emotional toll on someone, especially when they feel like they’re always falling short of their extreme expectations.
Burnout
Burnout is an unfortunately common occurrence in the working lives of many people. It is a phenomenon that typically comes from chronic workplace stress and an imbalance between work and personal life.
People who struggle with perfectionism can be at a higher risk of experiencing burnout. Perfectionists place so much importance on achieving their goals that they are more likely to experience exhaustion, fatigue, and other burnout symptoms when they fall short of their goals.
Low Self-Esteem
Feeling like you aren’t measuring up to the goals you’ve set for yourself can have a negative impact on self-esteem. Recognizing your own accomplishments is an important part of developing self-worth and esteem. It can be all too easy to look past the things you do accomplish when focused on the perfect ideal you’ve created for yourself.
Poor Physical Health
In addition to its effects on mental health, perfectionism can lead to a decline in physical well-being. The chronic stress that is caused by perfectionism can lead to aches, pains, and chronic exhaustion.
Unrealistic Expectations
Perfectionists have a hard time meeting the strict goals they set for themselves. This is often because their goals are unrealistic or unattainable. Even when a perfectionist meets an extreme goal they’ve set for themselves, they might pick apart their performance, looking for what they should have done better.
Imposter Syndrome
Many women in the workplace deal with impostor syndrome, especially in fields that are dominated by men. They may doubt their own abilities or qualifications and become fearful of making mistakes. This fear can make perfectionism seem like the safest way to let themselves and others know that they belong.
The Media
The media is filled with unrealistic views on what’s considered beautiful. Television shows, movies, commercials, and magazines are filled with actors, singers, dancers, and models who fit a particular beauty standard. Even social media is filled with perfectly curated and edited photos and videos. These unrealistic expectations can harm a woman’s self-image and can lead to mental health issues like eating disorders.
Relationship Problems
Women who tend to be perfectionists might experience problems in their relationships. In their efforts to be the perfect partner, they might neglect essential boundaries or put the wants and needs of others before their own. This can eventually lead to unfulfilled and strained relationships.
How to Break Free
If you’re struggling with the pressures of perfectionism, it’s important to know that you’re not alone. It’s also important to remember that there is help available to you—all you have to do is ask for it. Reach out today for women’s therapy to start the process of breaking free from your perfectionistic tendencies.
