Introduction to Perfectionism

universal agreement on the definition of perfection, many people

strive to attain perfection in everything they do. Like everything

else, perfectionism has positive and negative sides. Perfectionists

have produced some of the best works in the world. This is

true in art, movies, sports, technology, etc. But there is a dark

side to it. Perfectionists are obsessed with perfection. Inability to

reach the high standards set by themselves leads them to low

self-esteem, extreme unhappiness, anxiety and in extreme cases,

depression. The root cause of many teenage suicides is the

incapability to accept failures. Expecting perfection from their

partner and kids jeopardizes the family life. Children of

perfectionist parents have a troubled childhood. Adaptive

perfectionism helps people to excel in their career or studies.

With appropriate help, maladaptive perfectionism can be

managed and perfectionists will be able to lead a more

meaningful life.