By Molly Chang
Perfectionism: the constant need to achieve perfection in anything and everything one does.
While this common trait among students may seem beneficial, it often becomes the opposite, causing high levels of stress and anxiety. The intense desire to achieve perfect grades and meet unrealistic standards can become overwhelming and lead to burnout.
Fortunately, there are several ways to combat perfectionism and find a healthy balance as a student. Here are some tips and strategies for overcoming perfectionism and living a more fulfilling student lifestyle.
Set realistic goals
One of the biggest contributors to perfectionism is setting unrealistic goals. It’s important to set achievable goals that challenge you, but are also within your reach. When setting goals, make sure they are specific, achievable and relevant. By setting goals that are within your capabilities, you’ll be able to focus on making progress rather than trying to achieve an impossible standard.
Celebrate small victories
As you work towards your goals, make sure to celebrate your progress along the way. Acknowledging your achievements, no matter how small, can help boost your motivation and build your confidence. Celebrate your successes with a small treat, like a matcha latte or a quick walk outside. It’s essential to reward yourself for your hard work and take time to appreciate the progress you’ve made.
Embrace imperfection
Perfectionism often leads to a fear of failure, which can be paralyzing. Instead of trying to be perfect, embrace imperfection and view mistakes as an opportunity to learn and grow. Perfection is an unattainable goal, so it’s essential to accept that you’ll make mistakes along the way. When you make a mistake, take a step back, learn from it and move forward. The ability to learn from your mistakes is a valuable skill that will help when combating perfectionism.
Practice self-care
When consumed by the desire to be perfect, it’s easy to neglect one’s physical and mental health. Self-care is essential for combating perfectionism and reducing stress. Take care of your body by getting enough sleep, eating well and exercising regularly. Make time for activities that bring you joy, like getting cozy with a book, watching your favorite TV show or passing time with friends. Taking care of yourself will help you feel more balanced and energized.
Seek support
Perfectionism can be isolating, but you’re not alone. Seek support from friends, family or a therapist. Talking to someone about your struggles can help you gain a new perspective and find new ways to cope with your perfectionist tendencies. You might also find it helpful to seek out resources through the Internet at the click of a button.
Perfectionism can be an undeniably challenging trait to overcome, but it’s not impossible. From celebrating small victories to embracing imperfection, you will be more than capable of combating perfectionism. Remember that progress, not perfection, is the goal.
