Perfectionism - The dark side of goal setting

Season Two | Issue: 02 | Read Time: 2min

The Productivity Series!

Season two embarks on a transformative journey, where you'll gain practical solutions and strategies to implement immediately. A transformational journey where clarity and ambition intersect, creating an unstoppable momentum for your thriving business. 

Perfectionism

The Dark Side of Goal Setting

Have you ever felt trapped in the pursuit of perfection? I know I have. In setting my goals, I inadvertently set the standard impossibly high.

The Struggle with Perfectionism

Perfectionism used to be my constant companion, a lurking shadow that held me back from achieving what I truly desired. I'd find myself lost in the endless pursuit of flawlessness, losing precious hours down tangential rabbit holes rather than simply showing up and making progress. If a project didn't meet my unattainable standards of perfection, I'd abandon it, and the cycle would repeat.

The Turning Point

Then came early 2023, a time that would forever change my perspective. I experienced burnout, and the effects were more than just physical exhaustion. Mental fatigue weighed me down, a relentless torrent of emotions that left me adrift.

I felt drained, overwhelmed, and depleted—the weight of constantly serving others while achieving nothing for myself had taken its toll. I was gripped by fear – fear of saying no, fear of rejection, and fear of letting others down. I carried the burden of wanting to solve everyone's problems, even at the cost of neglecting myself and my business.

Embracing Imperfection

In those challenging moments, I realised I was the only one to blame for this self-imposed perfectionism trap. It was time for a shift from the shackles of perfection towards the freedom of progress.

The journey wasn't easy, but it was empowering. I learned to embrace imperfection as a stepping stone to growth. I discovered the power of prioritisation, focusing my efforts on what truly mattered. And I began celebrating small wins, understanding they were the building blocks of lasting momentum.

Your Path to Transformation

So, if you find yourself trapped in the same cycle of perfectionism that once held me captive, remember this: You have the power to break free. Embrace progress over perfection, and let it lead you towards a life filled with purpose and fulfilment.

Your journey, like mine, can be one of transformation, empowerment, and self-discovery. It all starts with the first step to prioritising progress over perfectionism.

And remember, you're not alone on this path – countless others have walked it before you, and I'm here to help and support you every step of the way.

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