Perfectionist ’ s Prey

My late mother and I discussed how to deftly handle the vexing interview question, “What’s your biggest weakness?” Instead of providing a sincere answer (stubbornness for $100, Alex), we collectively rehearsed the answer. And, yes, my over-practiced answer hinted at those dreaded — and inescapable — tendencies. “Well, I am a perfectionist. I am not satisfied until the project is perfect. And I will strive — relentlessly — to meet the project’s objectives,” I dribbled out to the interviewer in chief. According to my mother, perfectionism is a virtue. And, according to her perfectionist’s creed, my answer proved my very bona fides — an unflinching commitment to meet my employer’s goals. But, Mom wisdom notwithstanding, is perfectionism more vice than virtue? Could it even be my biggest weakness?   Get out your shovel; it is time to dig a little deeper. Like my late mother, I am a proud overachiever. And like her, I attribute my success to an unmatched work ethic and a tireless desire to achieve. But these putative virtues have devilish side effects. As a perfectionist youngster, I remember — in vivid detail — the agony of an eighth grade science project. Sure, earth science was excruciating for this math and science technophone. But more distressing: the crumpled drafts in my overflowing wastepaper basket. My handwriting was imperfect — or so I declared. But with each hastily discarded draft, my frustration cre...
Source: World of Psychology - Category: Psychiatry & Psychology Authors: Tags: Anxiety and Panic Depression Personal Self-Esteem Success & Achievement Accomplishment Anxious Thoughts Failure Job Interview Perfectionism Perfectionist Worry Source Type: blogs