When you think of a perfectionist, you’d probably think of someone who has their life together and is constantly organized. A lot of times, it can be pretty much the opposite. Some of you reading this can probably relate, especially in terms of navigating college life. Here are some things to remind yourself if you’re a perfectionist like me.
- Stop being so hard on yourself!
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So maybe that B- on an exam you studied hours for is annoying, but a B is pretty stellar if you look on the bright side. Of course, we all want A’s all the time, and that’s something to shoot for! But it’s always good to recognize the little victories! B’s still get degrees, people.
- Accept change!
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This is kind of piggybacking off of the first point, but sometimes some things don’t go as planned and that is…okay! Yes, this is very shocking to those with perfectionistic mindsets, I get it, but hear me out. This point isn’t just exclusive to grades, but life plans in general. For instance, some people change their major 4 or 5 times because it’s just not working out or they’ve found something else they’re more passionate about. Most times, college life is not linear, there are some bumps along the way! Accept the change, my friends.
- Go with the flow
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As a generally anxious person, this phrase makes me shudder. How does one truly, “Go with the flow?” To me, this basically means to take things as they are. Not everything has to be just right. I know that paper you wrote did not need to be checked seven times. One or two times was definitely enough. This is one of the hardest things to remember as a perfectionist. If you start to feel like your perfectionism is overwhelming you, just remember to breathe, and just flow. It’ll always be okay in the end, even if it doesn’t feel like it in the moment.
Perfectionism is definitely one of my daily struggles and I’m constantly trying to tone it down, simply for my own sanity. Don’t get me wrong, wanting things to be right isn’t inherently bad, but lots of times it can hinder you more than help you. Nevertheless, in the wise words of Ariana Grande, “We’re gonna be alright.”
HCXO, Brianna