16 May Perfectionism’s not all bad; just don’t go too far with it
via the SMH by Sarah Berry
The paradox of perfectionism is that it promotes behaviour that is far from perfect. In its grip we strive to be our best and often become our worst; unforgiving, rigid and abusive.
On a good day, perfectionism can motivate us to strive towards our potential and see the potential in others. On a bad day, it pokes and prods at ours (and others’) perceived flaws, prompting behaviour towards ourselves (and often others) that is ugly and highly flawed.
Jennifer Kemp has struggled with perfectionism for most of her life.
It wasn’t until eight years ago, when she went to see a talk by eating disorder specialist and perfectionism researcher, Professor Tracey Wade, that she realised it was a trap that does not make life perfect…
…keep reading the full & original article HERE