Perfectionism: Why and How to Beat It - A Comprehensive Survey of Product Management

Perfectionism: Why and How to Beat It - A Comprehensive Survey of Product Management

Perfectionism is a common trait that many individuals struggle with. It is often associated with having excessively high standards and a rigid adherence to those standards. However, it is important to note that the desire to do great work is not the issue. The problem lies in the rigidity around those standards and the hyperfocus on achieving impossible goals. This can lead to burnout, neglect of other responsibilities, avoidance of goals, and a constant feeling of misery.

In order to overcome perfectionism, it is crucial to understand the purpose of your rules and standards. Rules can be helpful when they lead to positive outcomes or when they align with your personal values. However, it is important to be flexible enough to recognize when these rules are no longer serving you. Psychologists refer to this as contingency-shaped behavior, where you let your experiences teach you and guide your actions.

To better understand what you want and to avoid getting lost in the pursuit of goals, it is essential to identify your values. Values are the directions you want your life to go in and the qualities you want to embody along the way. They act as guideposts when faced with challenging circumstances and can provide intrinsic motivation. Research has shown that individuals are more likely to approach difficult situations when they are aligned with their personal values.

It is crucial to differentiate between rules that you follow because you believe you "should" and rules that you follow because you genuinely want the outcomes they bring. Socially expected standards of behavior may lead to a sense of obligation, but true motivation comes from within. By becoming aware of the rules you are following and their origins, you can gain the power to choose which ones to uphold and which ones to let go of.

Developing the ability to create space between your thoughts and feelings is a powerful tool in combating perfectionism. This is known as defusion, where you detach yourself from the overwhelming thoughts and emotions. Once you have achieved this freedom, you can then focus on returning to your values and making choices that align with them. Following your values allows for variability in behavior, which is essential for personal growth and learning.

In a comprehensive survey of product management, it was found that communication, execution, and product sense were the most frequently valued skills in the field. On the other hand, design/UX, empathy, and raw intelligence were least frequently valued. This highlights the importance of effective communication and the ability to bring ideas to fruition in the role of a product manager. However, it is also necessary to recognize the significance of design, empathy, and intelligence in creating successful products.

It is interesting to note that the influence of product managers varies widely among companies. While some companies, like Zynga, give product managers significant control, others, such as Apple, have limited influence. This indicates that the role and impact of product management can differ greatly depending on the organization.

In conclusion, perfectionism can be detrimental to one's well-being and productivity. By understanding the purpose of your rules, identifying your values, and developing the ability to create space between your thoughts and feelings, you can overcome perfectionistic tendencies. Additionally, in the field of product management, effective communication, execution, and product sense are highly valued skills. However, it is crucial to recognize the importance of design, empathy, and raw intelligence in creating successful products. By integrating these insights and taking action, you can work towards personal growth and success in both overcoming perfectionism and excelling in product management.