Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois


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October 18, 2013

Fit Facts: The Perils of Perfectionism

Nobody’s perfect. But being too hard on yourself for not achieving an unattainable goal invites failure and takes a toll on your mental and physical health.

As a personality trait, it is seen as obsessive and at times pathological. People who are perfectionists may become so focused on setting a high standard for themselves that they live their lives as if graded constantly on a report card.

While there’s nothing wrong with wanting to do well, those who set unrealistic objectives are often extremely self-critical and feel nothing they do is ever good enough. Even more damaging: believing others expect you to be perfect.

Are you a perfectionist? Here are some signs:

  • You constantly doubt your ability to accomplish tasks.
  • You experience severe distress over mistakes.
  • You’re unable to accept failure.

Super Stress
Placing impossibly high expectations on your own performance — or that of others — increases stress. Some types of perfectionism can lead to depression, chronic fatigue, compulsive behavior, addiction, eating disorders and even thoughts of suicide.

Dial It Down
When perfectionism keeps you from feeling satisfied with your work or causes friction in relationships, it’s a problem. Keep it in check with these tips:

  • Look at what’s really important, and set priorities.
  • Set realistic, attainable goals.
  • Lower expectations and accept mistakes as a way to learn.
  • Delegate tasks or ask for help.
  • Value your strengths and view flaws as human.
  • Stop comparing yourself with others.
  • Say no to impractical or draining projects.

This month, we invite you to visit Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois’ Facebook page and join the conversation on our breast cancer campaign throughout October.

Sources: The New York Times, December 4, 2007; Harvard Health Publications

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A Division of Health Care Service Corporation, a Mutual Legal Reserve Company,
an Independent Licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.