"Perfectionism: Why and How to Beat It" - "Grow the Puzzle Around You"

"Perfectionism: Why and How to Beat It" - "Grow the Puzzle Around You"

Perfectionism is a common trait that many individuals possess. It is characterized by excessively high standards and rigid adherence to those standards. The desire to do great work is not the issue; it is the inflexibility and hyperfocus on achieving impossible goals that can lead to burnout and dissatisfaction.

To overcome perfectionism, it is crucial to understand the purpose of your rules and standards. Rules can be helpful when they align with your values and lead to positive outcomes. However, it is essential to recognize when these rules are no longer serving you and adapt accordingly. This ability to be flexible and open to change is known as contingency-shaped behavior.

Values play a significant role in combating perfectionism. They provide direction and motivation in challenging circumstances. By identifying your values and framing them as guideposts, you can maintain intrinsic motivation and avoid feeling lost or rudderless once goals are accomplished.

It is important to differentiate between rules that you follow because you think you "should" and rules that align with your intrinsic desires. Socially expected standards of behavior can often lead to rigid rule-following, which may not contribute to personal growth or fulfillment. Awareness of these distinctions empowers you to develop defusion, the ability to detach from intrusive thoughts and emotions.

Returning to your values and following them creates variability in behavior, which is beneficial for personal growth. By embracing variability, you can learn new things and expand your horizons. Perfectionistic thoughts and ideas can actually be a gift, as they point towards what is most important to you. Embracing your unique combination of abilities and interests is key to finding success in the startup world.

In the realm of startups, organic growth is often the most successful. Companies that arise from the founders' personal experiences and passions tend to be the outliers that disrupt industries. There is no one mold for a successful founder, and it is important to resist conforming to societal expectations. Instead, focus on what genuinely interests you and play to your natural strengths.

Ignoring mainstream opinions and staying true to your vision is crucial. Seek out cofounders with complementary skills but a shared moral compass. Surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals who align with your values will contribute to a harmonious and successful partnership.

Above all, the key to startup success is creating something that people want. By addressing a need or solving a problem, you can build a meaningful and impactful business. Be intrepid and bold in pursuing ideas that may be considered unconventional. Embrace the idea that you are a unique puzzle piece and have the power to grow a new puzzle around you.

To summarize, here are three actionable pieces of advice:

1. Understand the purpose of your rules and standards, and be flexible enough to adapt them when necessary.
2. Identify your values and use them as guideposts in challenging situations.
3. Embrace your uniqueness and focus on what genuinely interests you, while surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals who share your moral compass.

By incorporating these insights and taking action, you can overcome perfectionism, find success in the startup world, and create a meaningful impact.