We often believe perfectionism plagues only over-achievers – worn like a badge of honour to compliment late nights in the office or endless hours in the home office. However, COVID-19 has brought a new light on how perfectionism creeps its way into our working life, becoming a significant predictor of burnout.

Perfectionistic concerns can manifest into fear of making mistakes and being criticised, leading to an ‘always on’ attitude, unhealthy time management, shame and additional pressure that impedes flexible working.

This challenge has never been greater than as we move into a hybrid working model. Fortunately, through cognitive reframing, we can learn to let go of the debilitating pressure we put on ourselves and embrace imperfect actions.

Inundated with the ‘highlights reel’ of those around us, we compare ourselves to the deceptively perfect lives of others. In the workplace, studies have demonstrated that perfectionism is associated with poorer decision-making, increased risk of burnout, procrastination, job dissatisfaction and role stress. ‘Health and Safety Executive’ estimates that stress results in over 11 million lost working days and costs close to £3.7 billion annually in the UK alone before the pandemic.

If we apply this spirit of excellence combined with the courage to take imperfect action, we can use perfectionism to propel us forward. Use it to drive you instead of hold you back.

Utilising principles of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, our session will provide you with the tools to deal with perfectionism, tackle negative thought processes, and shake off your need to be faultless. Strive for excellence while also recognising the gift of imperfection. Transform your perfectionism.

Key learnings:

1. Accepting that everyone experiences some form of perfectionism that holds them back
2. Understanding the factors that contribute to perfectionism
3. Recognise and challenge distorted perfectionism-led thought patterns
4. Moving from maladaptive to adaptive perfectionism