Perfectionism is a trait when at its best, can be motivating and drive one towards achievement and success. However excessive perfectionism can become unhealthy particularly when a person sets such unrealistically high standards to meet, and then becomes paralysed by a fear of failure. This can lead to procrastination, rigid all-or-nothing thinking and missing out on many life experiences or opportunities. Over time, unhealthy perfectionism can erode a person’s self-esteem and self-confidence and make them more susceptible to developing mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety disorders or eating disorders.
