Perfectionism is the relentless striving towards high and sometimes unattainable goals. Perfectionists often set high standards for themselves and others and measure their self-worth by attainment of these standards. Perfectionism often starts early in life. Some factors that contribute towards developing perfectionism are early attachments with caregivers, an expectation of high standards in early life and feelings of inadequacy or insecurity.
 

If you are experiencing perfectionism, you may judge your self-worth on your ability to strive for and achieve unrelenting standards. You may spend a long time competing tasks and judge yourself harshly for small failures. In relationships with others you may compare yourself unfavourably with others or find it difficult to be happy for the success of others. People with perfectionism can avoid activities where they are less likely to achieve success.
 

Although perfectionism can appear a positive trait for success, it can actually impede people in achieving desired goals. Striving towards goals that are unattainable can lead to high self-criticism and demotivation. The mismatch between expectations and reality can also result in adjustment difficulties resulting in anxiety, depression, OCD or low self-esteem. Perfectionism can cause high levels of distress, and it can be very difficult to let go of high standards despite their high personal cost.