Understanding Perfectionism

At Evolving Minds Counselling and Psychology in Menai, our clinicians provide evidence-based therapy for children, adolescents, adults and older adults experiencing perfectionism across the Sutherland Shire and southern Sydney.

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Perfectionism involves setting very high expectations and tying self-worth to performance, achievement or meeting certain standards. While motivation and high standards can be strengths, perfectionism can become difficult when mistakes feel unacceptable, goals never feel “good enough,” or fear of failure leads to avoidance, procrastination, burnout or emotional distress.

 

Over time, these patterns can influence how a person approaches school, work, relationships and everyday responsibilities. Many people experiencing perfectionism describe strong internal pressure, persistent self-criticism, or difficulty feeling satisfied with their efforts.

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How Perfectionism May Present

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In children, perfectionism may appear as distress when things are not “just right,” reluctance to try new activities unless success feels certain, or heightened anxiety around schoolwork, sport or performance. For some children, these pressures may contribute to school avoidance or separation anxiety, particularly when worries about making mistakes feel overwhelming.

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In adolescents, perfectionism may present as academic pressure, procrastination, self-doubt, social withdrawal or overworking. Social comparison and expectations around achievement can intensify these experiences during adolescence.

 

In adults, perfectionism may contribute to overachievement, indecision, difficulty delegating, sleep disruption, burnout or persistent feelings of inadequacy despite success.

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Perfectionism and Co-Existing Conditions

 

For many people, perfectionism is closely linked with anxiety. Worries about making mistakes, disappointing others or not meeting expectations can create ongoing pressure and self-criticism. Over time, this pressure can increase anxiety and make everyday decisions or responsibilities feel more overwhelming. You can learn more about how anxiety may influence these patterns on our Anxiety page.

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Perfectionism often occurs alongside panic attacks, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), ADHD, or autism.

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For some people, perfectionism can influence patterns of control around food, body image or performance. You can learn more about these experiences on our Eating Disorders and Body Image and Body Dysmorphic Disorder pages.

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Therapeutic Approaches

 

Our clinicians draw on a range of evidence-based therapies, including:

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• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

• Schema Therapy

• Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT)

• Radically Open Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (RO-DBT)

• Mindfulness-based strategies

 

If you’re unsure where to begin, our Client Care Team can assist. Call 02 8519 4197 or click the button below to request an appointment.