Perfectionism - English Definition & Meaning

Definition

Perfectionism is the relentless pursuit of flawlessness and setting excessively high standards. It's like constantly striving for an A+ even when an A is perfectly acceptable. It's more than just wanting to do well; it's an obsession with being perfect. Unlike healthy striving, perfectionism leads to anxiety and self-criticism. Think of someone who spends hours meticulously editing a paper, even when it's already good enough – that's perfectionism in action. 😩 It often involves fear of failure and judgment.

Etymology

The word "perfection" comes from the Latin word *perfectio*, meaning "completion" or "finishing." The suffix "-ism" indicates a belief or principle. Thus, perfectionism is the belief in the importance of achieving perfection. The term has evolved to describe both a positive стремление to excellence and a negative obsession with flawlessness. It carries the weight of expectation.

Related Words

Examples

• "Her perfectionism prevented her from finishing projects on time."
• "He struggled with perfectionism, constantly redoing his work."
• "The therapist helped her overcome her perfectionism."
• "Perfectionism can lead to burnout and stress."

Encouragement

Strive for excellence, but don't let perfectionism control you. Embrace imperfections as opportunities for growth. Remember, good enough is often good enough! You are valuable and worthy, even with your flaws! ❤️

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