I’m Michelle, the managing editor here at Poosh. You’ve probably read some of my first-person stories, like the skincare secrets I’ve learned from Kourt and how being cheated on turned me into the strongest version of myself (to name a couple). Today, I’m shifting the topic and sharing the pros and cons of being a perfectionist.
Growing up, my dad’s family motto was “Scangas never quit.” This “work hard and finish what you started” mentality carried through high school, college, and now into my career. This isn’t to say I wasn’t allowed to ever quit something; it was more to teach the mindset of trying everything you can before giving up on something. In my career, it has taught me to not take no for an answer and find different (and creative) ways to get what I want. Like moving from Kansas to pursue a career in fashion that then led me to working here at Poosh. I had zero connections, yet because of my perfectionism mentality and motivation that comes along with it, I was determined to find a way, and I did (see pros list below). This is just one example of how being a perfectionist is a positive “superpower” if you will, but just like everything in life, there are highs and lows that come along with this personality trait. Ahead, I’m breaking down the pros and cons I’ve learned in my life so far.
Calling all perfectionists: let me know if you can relate to each list.
The pros:
You’re a high achiever.
For me, not only am I a high achiever wanting more for my personal and professional life than the average person, but I also surround myself with friends who have similar goals. Whether it’s a daily goal or long-term plan, I’ve learned to manifest and put it out in the universe (the easiest way is to say it out loud or tell a friend as a way to hold yourself accountable) in order to make these dreams a reality.
You’re highly detail-oriented.
All the small things add up to create my ultimate vision in my head. From editing content to cleaning my apartment and even something silly like planning all my outfits for an upcoming vacation, it’s in my blood to do everything (that’s in my control at least) that I can to result in the highest outcome. I spend a lot of time thinking about the small things that make an occasion (work or personal) feel super special.
You give it your all or nothing.
When I’m assigned or hired for a project or role, I can confidently know that I’ll give it my all. No half-assing and no in-betweens. This, to me, is one of the best traits because if for some reason the situation isn’t working out, I know without a doubt I did my best. It also lends a way to say to your boss or friend, “Hey, I’ve worked on XXX, I think we need to find another solution in order to move forward (or whatever applies to the situation).” This means you’re a great problem solver, too!
The cons:
You’re obsessed with getting it right.
This one, ugh. It’s when the line is blurred from detailed-oriented to obsessive. While it’s great to pay attention to the little things, I’ve noticed it can become unhealthy when I don’t know when to let things go (especially when they are out of my control). I always have to remind myself that life is short and to not sweat the small stuff that won’t mean anything in the long run. Life comes with ups and downs, and there’s no need to get hung up on things like your plans not going exactly how you imagined them to be. It will all be OK.
You’re highly career-driven.
You might be thinking, “Why is this on the con list?” Well, if you’re like me and take a lot of pride in your job (no matter how big or small the task may be), you might find yourself putting all your eggs in one basket. Meaning all your satisfaction comes from your performance at work. As I mentioned above, my friends are this way too, and we always remind each other that we have to find a balance and most importantly have satisfaction in our lives outside of work. Easier said than done, but if you take anything from this article, let this one be the priority.
You’re an overthinker.
I’m so guilty of this, but I’m definitely getting better at it. I’ll overthink before sending a text or replay a situation over and over in my head, which sometimes sends me into a late-night spiraling episode. I’m well aware of when I’m doing it, which is the first step to ending this habit, so I’ll give myself a pat on the back for that. I’ve learned it’s such a waste of time to reword, rethink, and overthink certain things and instead just let it be. Move on and upward and focus on bigger goals and projects that are in my control. Less overthinking and more doing is my current mindset.
Are you a perfectionist? What do you consider to be the biggest pros and cons of this personality trait? Let us know in the comments on Instagram or in our private Facebook group.
