Perfectionism

A fast track to unhappiness.

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For perfectionists, life is an endless report card on accomplishments or looks.

Perfectionism is a fast track to discontentment, and it is often accompanied by depression as well as eating disorders. While those in the grip of perfectionism desire success, they are usually most focused on avoiding failure. This gives perfectionists a negative orientation, which is what makes perfectionism so toxic. Luckily, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and mindfulness therapy can be extremely helpful to perfectionists.

What Causes Perfectionism?

Perfectionism is driven primarily by internal pressures, such as the desire to avoid failure or harsh judgment. There is likely a social component as well – because perfectionistic tendencies have increased substantially among young people over the past 30 years, regardless of gender or culture. Greater academic and professional competition is thought to play a role, along with the pervasive presence of social media and the harmful social comparisons it elicits.

Perfectionists set unrealistically high expectations for themselves and others. They are quick to find fault and overly critical of mistakes. They tend to procrastinate a project out of their fear of failure. They shrug off compliments and forget to celebrate their success. Instead, they look to specific people in their life for approval and validation. These unrealistic expectations can instill a deep fear of failure and judgment, resulting in a variety of coping mechanisms that contribute to the person being constantly worried over even relatively small tasks, often leading to procrastination.

Symptoms of Perfectionism

Perfectionism manifests in various ways, significantly impacting your daily life, relationships, and emotional well-being. Recognizing its signs and symptoms is crucial, and some of the most prevalent indicators include:

  • Needing clear structure and organization
  • Being driven and ambitious
  • Having an exaggerated fear of failure
  • Having high standards and expectations
  • Having difficulty overlooking small mistakes
  • Self-worth and self-esteem are contingent on success
  • Having high levels of insecurity
  • Viewing any mistake as a failure
  • Engaging in excessive self-criticism and rumination
  • Always being over-prepared
  • Having hypersensitivity to criticism
  • Fearing rejection because of mistakes
  • Having rigid black-or-white thinking

The symptoms of perfectionism can make every day a struggle and require treatment. For most people, overcoming perfectionism means turning to perfectionism therapy in NYC. Experts in this specialized field can offer support and strategies for managing the pressures of perfectionism, helping individuals lead more balanced and fulfilling lives.

Overcoming Perfectionism Depression

Whether you live in New York City or elsewhere, it’s easy to feel stress from family, work, and  relationships. You feel as though you should always perform at your peak. While striving for higher goals is commendable, it’s important to achieve them without sacrificing your physical and mental health.

Since there is a strong correlation between perfectionism and depression, learning how to cope with failure is a huge component of treating the maladaptive perfectionist attitude. People who are prone to maladaptive perfectionism are easily set back if circumstances don’t go their way. They constantly try to find ways to feel good, but in the  help from a perfectionism counselor in New York Citytherapist in NYC, you can eventually change your world outlook and begin setting realistic and attainable goals.

How to Find a Therapist for Perfectionism

When searching for ways to treat perfectionism, therapy is the best option. Perfectionism counseling in NYC can provide the guidance you need to manage symptoms and lead a happier life. But how do you find dependable perfectionism counseling in New York City?

Experience Matters: The first step is to look for experience. Ensure that your perfectionism therapy NYC expert has adequate knowledge and training working with others facing the same challenges. A seasoned professional can target and manage your condition more effectively.

Treatment Modalities: Understanding the treatment modalities your therapist offers is crucial when considering perfectionism therapy in New York. Since not all modalities are equally effective for every condition, this knowledge helps ensure your treatment begins on the right track, without needing adjustments later.

Open Communication: Engaging openly with your perfectionism therapy NYC specialist is vital for those seeking to overcome perfectionism. Asking detailed questions can clarify what to expect from treatment. Ensure your therapist is prepared to answer all your questions, no matter how trivial they may seem.

Turning to Citron Hennessey for New York perfectionism therapy is an excellent choice to find the right support. We carefully analyze your needs to match you with the perfectionism counseling New York expert best suited for you.

Let us know your struggles, preferred type of treatment sessions, and your available times for perfectionism therapy in NYC. We will connect you with the perfect expert who will integrate seamlessly into your schedule, allowing you to focus on improvement without putting your life on hold.

If you’re seeking a healthier way to manage perfectionism that brings joy back into your life, choosing the right treatment team is essential. Reach out to us today, and start your journey toward a happier, more fulfilled life.