E259 | Understanding and Overcoming Perfectionism

The Art Of Coaching

DONE. You’ve finally finished the big project you’ve been agonizing over.

But as you prepare to hit send, print, submit - whatever - all you feel is doubt. Despite the preparation and time you’ve put in, you can’t help but think about all the ways this “finished product” isn’t good enough.

This is just one example of how perfectionism can manifest in our day-to-day lives; how it can hold us back, make us feel anxious - even depressed - and how it can keep us from making the type of progress we so desperately seek within our personal and professional lives.

In this episode, we’re going to explore the topic of perfectionism in depth. Specifically, we will dive into:

• The various definitions and “symptoms” (8:40)
• It’s origins, including the 5 Factor Model of Personality (23:15)
• The difference between perfectionism and healthy striving (29:30)
• Non-traditional strategies for overcoming it (44:00)

If you enjoy topics like this- some great previous episodes that pair nicely with this include:

• E49: Productivity That Matters

• E76: Getting Out Of Your Own Way

• E93: The Sin of Self Promotion

• E95: Context and Proving Others “Wrong”

• E105: Overcoming Imposter Phenomenon

• E146: How To Deal with Overwhelm and Burnout

• E147: Gabby Reece - Eliminating the Noise in Life and Leadership

• E179: The Truth About Overcoming an Eating and Exercise Disorder

Other Referenced Resources:

• Art of Coaching Podcast E187: Archetypes: What They Are, What They Aren’t, and How They Help Us Grow

• Art of Coaching Digital Community

• The Apprenticeship Communication Workshop

• Stay up to date on my new book

• Ask us a question!

If you’re looking for ways to benefit from the Art of Coaching community, our upcoming Conscious Coaching Challenge is the perfect place to start. I know I just went on and on about how perfection is an illusion, but truthfully, the Challenge will scrape the surface of all the ways we provide value - from leadership, to speaking, to negotiation, and so much more. It starts March 6, and for less than $4/ day you’ll have access to the entire AoC team, worksheets, short presentations, and a community of other professionals looking to grow - just like you. Sign up today HERE!

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