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Perfectionism

If the only thing stopping you being your best is your perfectionism, then read on.

   Perfectionism

Perfectionism comes from early experiences in life from which you think that your approval by others depends upon you being perfect in what you do. Your self esteem then becomes reliant on the approval of others and the work you produce. The need to always please others and be nothing less than perfect however, can leave you feeling useless, burnt out, hollow, and far from perfect.

   Perfectionism and your study

Being perfectionistic in your study is not only unnecessary, but time consuming and unproductive. The considerable time spent gaining a few extra marks on one assessment, is time taken away from getting the majority of your marks on another assessment. Never loose sight of your ultimate goal, the gaining of your degree.

Setting goals based on perfectionism is unrealistic and unattainable. More useful are those that are set to try and achieve results that are ‘good’. ‘Good’ results allow you to vary the level of achievement and effort that is required based on what you realistically need. If you need Distinctions or better to be offered an Honors year, then aim for 80%. If you are doing a unit out of your major and the result has no impact on your career or course progression, good may be a Pass and an enjoyable time broadening your knowledge.

   Quick tips
  1. Set realistic goals for yourself.
  2. Set the next goal based on how well you achieved the previous goal.
  3. Deliberately aim for less than 100% on something that doesn’t require it – find out that the world will not fall apart around you if you are not perfect.
  4. Focus on and enjoy the process of learning, reading something of interest, talking to peers, and being in a class discussion.
  5. Discuss with a counsellor your perfectionism.
   Taking it further  Getting help

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