Perfectionism & Procrastination: The High Achiever's Double Edge Sword
Perfectionism & Procrastination: The High Achiever's Double Edge Sword
Exploring The Complex Relationship Between Perfectionism, Overthinking, and Procrastination
Hi, it’s Clive. This post 10 for my 30 day writing challenge. It’s written for high achieving, ambitious individuals who are exploring elite level performance. Let's exchange what's predictable for what's possible.
Yesterday I wrote a post about Everyday Remarkable People. That got me thinking about something I wrestle with constantly. Being trapped in a vicious cycle of perfectionism, overthinking, and procrastination.
Don’t worry it’s not going to be an entry from my therapy journal.
(Wait, what, you have a therapy journal?)
Joking aside.
I first had the idea of writing about Everyday Remarkable People over a year ago.
Why did this idea stall? Why is the project still not done? Do other high achievers have this inability to finish projects — or is that just me?
(Turns out lots do.)
So many questions.
And disappointment too. The idea of writing about unsung heroes struck me as a great idea. Now I find someone else is writing about Everyday Remarkable People and just started this year!
Grrrr!
So I want to explore the topic a little here. And my initial research shows it is pretty common for entrepreneurially minded, high achievers. That’s actually a relief.
For me, procrastination usually kicks in when there's something bigger and more important coming up on my agenda. I might not even be conscious of what that is.
But procrastination also happens because of my perfectionism. I often set myself unreasonably high expectations for performance, given where I am starting from.
And then there is the joy of overthinking, which is my catalyst for both perfectionism and procrastination.
I get tied up in a web of fear of making the wrong decision, desire for a flawless performance, and anxiety that I haven’t made progress.
Does this look familiar to you at all?
It does to me! Anyway, enough about my struggles — lets get practical.
This is the actual exercise I use to challenge my — Perfectionist, Overthinker, Procrastinator — Trifecta
Step 1: Identify the Core Idea
What is the concept or innovation behind your new idea? Be clear and concise.
Step 2: Challenge the Perfectionist
What is the minimum viable version of this idea that I can test?
Simplify the idea and focus on a specific aspect.
This reduces the scope and pressure for perfection.
Step 3: Debunk the Overthinker
What are the risks or challenges associated with your idea?
For each risk, brainstorm possible solutions or mitigation strategies.
Embrace uncertainty as a natural part of the creative process.
Step 4: Conquer the Procrastinator
How can the idea be broken down into smaller, manageable tasks?
Set a deadline for each task and prioritise them based on importance and urgency.
Reward yourself for completing tasks to maintain motivation and combat procrastination.
Step 5: Seek Feedback
Who do I trust enough to share my fledgling idea and plans with?
Ask these colleagues, mentors, or friends for candid feedback and insights.
Be open to constructive criticism and use it to refine your idea.
Follow these steps to challenge the trifecta and move your new idea forward with even greater focus and confidence.
When you’ve tried this exercise please let me know how it worked for you.
I read every response.
🚀 Let me ask — what's your biggest perfectionist, overthinker, and procrastinater challenge ?
I work 1:1 with highly ambitious achievers on their agenda: including mindset and behaviour change, leading others in a high stakes situations, and influencing decisions with integrity. If that’s for you please get in touch.
If you’re not ready for a coach. Subscribe to Go Against Gravity and get a weekly nudge to keep you moving forward, on-track, and accountable.