How to Let Go of Perfectionism
Perfectionism - this word alone can be so triggering. It can be like that overly critical friend or family member who never quite leaves your side, who’s always telling you to “do more”, “be better” or to “try harder”.
And while striving for greatness and being the best you can be is one thing, constantly chasing perfection? That’s exhausting—and honestly, it holds you back from joy, creativity, and real progress. (Plus, here’s a secret for you - there is no such thing as perfection!)
So let’s break down what perfectionism really is, how it might be tripping you up, and how you can finally let it go of perfectionism once and for all.
What is Perfectionism?
Perfectionism is essentially the need to get everything “just right” - be it your work, your appearance, or even how your house looks.
It’s that inner drive to be flawless, pushing you to criticize every little detail and fear making mistakes.
Sure, aiming for high standards can help us achieve big things, but when it becomes a constant stressor, it’s less about excellence and more about feeling stuck.
Most times taking messy action is better than no action, which can occur when you’re paralyzed by perfectionist tendencies.
How Perfectionism Could Be Holding You Back
Perfectionism can cause procrastination, burnout, missed opportunities, and even some strain in relationships (especially if you expect others to live up to those impossible standards, too).
Think about the times you’ve held off on doing something because it wasn’t “perfect” or the timing wasn’t “perfect.”
Have you ever left a project unfinished because the idea of it not being exactly right felt overwhelming? Or, have you ever felt so much fear from your perfectionist ways that you never even got started on a project you felt called to?
Ultimately, striving for perfection can become an exhausting way of life that leaves you feeling constantly behind, never quite good enough, and always stressed about what others might think.
And, I speak all of this not only from a professional place, but because I have lived it first hand!
Why Are We Perfectionists?
Often, perfectionism is rooted in how we were raised, experiences that shaped us, or even our natural traits we’ve developed.
Maybe you grew up with high expectations or had to “earn” approval by excelling.
Or perhaps you’ve internalized a fear of judgment, worrying that anything less than perfect will disappoint others.
Maybe you feel it’s a way to manage life’s unpredictability and to help you gain some semblance of control (especially in times of stress and anxiety).
While it’s good to have high standards, perfectionism can end up holding you back - and for those of us who are naturally detail-oriented, perfectionism can become a habit that’s hard to break.
But the good news? It’s not impossible to let go of perfectionism once and for all.
How to Let Go of Perfectionism
Learning to let go of perfectionism doesn’t mean giving up on your goals—it’s about finding a way to pursue them with more ease and less self-criticism. And that all starts with our mindset!
Here’s how you can finally free yourself from perfectionism, once and for all:
First, start talking back to that inner critic. Instead of letting it convince you that everything needs to be flawless, remind yourself that “good enough” is often more than enough. You can still set goals that stretch you; but aim for PROGRESS rather than perfection.
Self-compassion should be another focus for you on your pursuit of letting go of perfectionism.
Make a pledge to start treating yourself as kindly as you would a friend. In most cases we are much harder on ourselves than we are to our loved ones. We would never talk to loved ones the way we talk to ourselves sometimes, so why do we think it’s okay for us to treat ourselves this way?
Rather than ruminating on ‘should haves’ or ‘could haves’, remember mistakes are normal and a part of growth - not proof that you aren’t enough. It’s how we learn. And it doesn’t mean it was a mistake! It’s just a journey getting us to the right answers for that point in time. What makes sense today, may not make sense even a week from now so be kind to yourself, always!
And while you’re at it, try to limit the comparison game. We are all on our own journeys. Stop looking at someone else’s highlight reel and comparing it to your life every day. We never truly know what is happening behind the scenes.
Lastly, try experimenting with imperfection by taking that messy action. Like finishing a project before it’s perfect just to get it done or letting yourself off the hook when something doesn’t go exactly as planned. Spend the free time you’d have otherwise spent working on the project in the pursuit of perfectionism doing something you love. Over time, you’ll see that the world won’t end when you allow yourself to be a little more human.
Like most things, it’s like working a muscle. The more you do it, the easier it will be and stronger you will become.
Using Hypnotherapy to Let Go of Perfectionism
Hypnotherapy can be a fantastic tool in letting go of perfectionistic tendencies by reshaping your mindset and addressing those underlying beliefs that drive the need for perfection.
Through hypnotherapy, you can identify and shift those core beliefs that keep you stuck. You’ll learn how to turn down the volume dial on that inner critic, allowing you to feel more confident and at ease.
Overcoming perfectionism using hypnotherapy is all about unlearning these old beliefs and rewiring your brain to see imperfections as normal and even valuable, so you’re free to approach life with less anxiety and more self-compassion.
The best part? Unlike quick fixes, hypnotherapy creates lasting change by working with your subconscious mind. The effects of each session can continue influencing your behavior and mindset long after it’s over, so you’ll find yourself moving through life with more freedom and ease.
One lesson I really had to learn on my own journey is to understand that letting go of perfectionism doesn’t mean you are lowering your standards, being lazy or giving up. It’s about creating room for joy, growth, and compassion.
So, why not give it a try? The only thing you have to lose is that critical voice that’s been holding you back.
If you’re ready to experience the powers of hypnotherapy to help you let go of your unsustainable levels of perfectionism, click here to find out how you can work with me. You don’t have to go it alone!
