Psychology: Expert distinguishes 7 types of perfectionism – which one are you?

Perfectionist? Heartfelt condolences! But do you also know why? Lifestyle coach and author Attila Albert identified seven types of perfectionism. Which one do you identify with?

Perfectionism can be positive. After all, there is nothing wrong with trying to do things as well as possible. This is why some people generally perceive (their) perfectionism as a strength. However, the property can not only be very stressful, but also counterproductive. Exaggerated perfectionism can paralyze us and lead to the fact that we can no longer get anything done. It is also often a breeding ground for self-doubt and can be related to self-esteem disorders such as anxiety or eating disorders.

As with so many things, measure and use decide whether our perfectionism inspires or slows us down. But in order to find a healthy way of dealing with this character trait, we must first understand why we developed it, what it says about us and what it does to us. Conveniently, the mental coach and author Attila Albert has identified seven types of perfectionism that can help us to better understand and cope with our own perfectionism. So: Which of these guys are you most likely to find yourself in …?

Expert distinguishes seven types of perfectionism – which one are you?

1. The fearful type

Perfectionist: This type of person is primarily driven by the fear of doing something wrong. Those affected go to great lengths to avoid mistakes and thus criticism. But despite all the effort, nobody is flawless. Therefore, this kind of perfectionism leads to the fact that these perfectionists are disappointed and stressed out of themselves again and again.

The expert tip for those affected: For each task, use specific criteria to determine when the result would already be solid – this is almost always enough in everyday life.

2. The nerd guy

Does he speak from experience …? Book author and mental coach Attila Albert gives tips on how to deal with perfectionism in his guide “Perfectionism is an asshole”.

© Attila Albert / PR

Nerd types generally want to impress and go to great lengths to look better than the others. However, it takes a lot of strength to constantly control yourself and to always be considered superior. In addition, this tension often leads to unnecessary arguments and justifications.

The expert tip for those affected: Explore the difficult, complicated sides of your biography and personality to be more forgiving of yourself and others.

3. The evasive guy

Evasive Perfectionist: Inside need perfection to push a problem out of the way. It works, but becomes exhausting in the long run. In addition, evaders only postpone solving their problems, not eliminating them.

The expert tip for those affected: Make friends with the idea that there is no perfect solution, like the ideal new job. With more pragmatism, you will need fewer distractions.

4. The helper type

The perfectionism of the helper type is largely motivated by care and love. Helpers do everything to keep others from having trouble. It is meaningful and enriching to want to help others lead a more comfortable, easier life. But in the long term we will spend ourselves with it.

The expert tip for those affected: Share responsibility more than before. In this way you free yourself from always being responsible for everything that you are good at.

5. The pragmatic type

This type of perfectionism is driven by a love of quality and what it does. Pragmatists: want to achieve something and thereby achieve the best that is possible under the given circumstances. This form of perfectionism causes creative joy, is motivating and connects a team more than anything else through mutual success.

The expert tip for those affected: With all your attention to detail, check regularly whether the relationship between effort and result is still right.

6. The wise guy

Wise perfectionist: Above all, what they want inside is that all people live together harmoniously, in perfect harmony with nature and the universe. Their longing for a better world makes them feel motivated and intuitively connected to others. But some consider them to be aloof because of that …

The expert tip for those affected: Consider expanding your concern into your main occupation, for example by applying to an appropriate organization.

7. The aloof type

The aloof guy wants to see and appreciate himself and everything around him as objectively as possible. This has a liberating effect, because distanced perfectionists are convinced that perfection does not require that there are no more problems. To some, however, it seems uninvolved and cool.

The expert tip for those affected: In exceptional situations, write down your new thoughts and insights, they will be helpful to you in everyday life.

Book cover: Perfectionism is an asshole

© PR

You can find more on the subject in the book “Perfectionism is an asshole” (192 pages, 16.99 euros) by Attila Albert, published by Gräfe und Unzer.