Is perfectionism derailing you?

Perfectionism

In our final post of this enlightening series on the characteristics of successful women leaders, shared by Jeff Klawsky, PhD, we shift our focus from accelerators to a common derailer: Perfectionism. Dr. Klawsky has observed that while striving for excellence is commendable, an overemphasis on perfection can significantly hinder progress, especially for women in leadership roles.

The Burden of Perfectionism: Many women leaders face the daunting challenge of perfectionism. This pursuit often stems from the pressure to exceed high expectations in every aspect of their work. Unfortunately, the drive for flawless execution can lead to severe stress and anxiety, as these leaders constantly anticipate criticism and doubt their decisions.

Consequences of Perfectionism:

1. Increased Stress: The constant worry about how others might perceive or critique their work can lead women leaders to second-guess themselves repeatedly. This not only increases stress but also diminishes their ability to act confidently and assertively.

2. Decision Paralysis: Another significant impact of perfectionism is the delay in decision- making. Leaders who are overly concerned with achieving perfection may procrastinate on making decisions, trying to avoid the criticism they fear will follow. This hesitation can be misconstrued as inefficiency or a lack of leadership acumen, potentially stalling their career progress and, in some cases, even leading to their exit from a role or organization.

Addressing Perfectionism:

As we conclude this series, Dr. Klawsky invites you to reflect on how you can combat the pitfalls of perfectionism with these guiding questions:

– How can you minimize the impact of your own perfectionism? Consider strategies to acknowledge and challenge your perfectionist tendencies.

– How can you increase your confidence in doing great work without it needing to be perfect? Reflect on past successes where outcomes were impactful despite not being flawless.

– How can you make decisions more swiftly, accepting some level of risk, without the paralyzing fear of criticism? Think about times when taking calculated risks led to positive results, even if the outcomes weren’t perfect.

Perfectionism, while often a sign of dedication and a strong work ethic, can be a substantial obstacle if left unchecked. Recognizing and addressing this trait can not only free you from

unnecessary stress but also enhance your effectiveness and satisfaction as a leader. As we explore these qualities and derailers, let’s strive for excellence—not perfection—and allow ourselves the grace to grow through our experiences.