The following are books on perfectionism to help you embark on your recovery journey.
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What Is Perfectionism?
Perfectionism refers to the tendency to set extremely high standards for oneself and to strive for flawlessness in all aspects of life.
It involves a relentless pursuit of excellence and an excessive concern for achieving perfection.
People who struggle with perfectionism often have an intense fear of failure and may experience feelings of inadequacy or self-criticism when they fall short of their own impossibly high standards.
While striving for excellence can be a positive trait, perfectionism can also have negative effects on one’s well-being and mental health.
It can lead to stress, anxiety, and a constant feeling of never being satisfied.
It’s important to recognize when perfectionism becomes counterproductive and learn to embrace imperfections as a natural part of life.
Books On Perfectionism
1. The Anxious Perfectionist
by Clarissa W. Ong , Michael P. Twohig
Written by two clinical psychologists, The Anxious Perfectionist will help you understand the hidden costs of “being the best,” and offer you essential skills based in acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) to help you cope with the anxiety that is driven by your perfectionism.
Related: Top 20 Practical Ways to Overcome Toxic Perfectionism (& Get Things Done)
2. When Perfect Isn’t Good Enough
by Martin M. Antony, Richard P. Swinson
In this book you’ll discover the root cause of your perfectionism, explore the impact of perfectionism on your life, and find new, proven-effective coping skills to help you overcome your anxiety about making mistakes.
This book has been awarded The Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies Self-Help Seal of Merit — an award bestowed on outstanding self-help books that are consistent with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) principles and that incorporate scientifically tested strategies for overcoming mental health difficulties.
3. Present Perfect
by Pavel Somov PH.D.
This book uses the Buddhist psychology of mindfulness to help you learn to accept the present moment in all of its ordinary perfection.
It will help you transform your need for precision into self-acceptance, compassion, and love for each perfectly imperfect passing moment in our lives.
Related: How To Break The Cycle Of Performance Anxiety?
4. Cognitive-Behavioral Treatment of Perfectionism
by Sarah J. Egan , Roz Shafran , Tracey D. Wade , Martin M. Antony
This is a practical resource that provides an evidence-based framework for treating clients struggling with perfectionism.
Coverage spans treatment planning, the therapeutic alliance, key obstacles that may arise, relapse prevention, and emerging research. Reproducible assessment scales and 36 patient handouts are included.
Related: Top 19 Journal Prompts For Perfectionists
5. Overcoming Perfectionism
by Ann W. Smith
In her book, Smith describes the key differences between overt and covert perfectionism; the role early attachment, temperament, sibling relationships, and life circumstances play in developing this pattern; and how to shift toward a center of balance for a more fulfilling life.
The book will help you learn how to identify and confront the root cause of your problem, how to reveal and accept your essence, and finally, learn the importance of forgiveness and letting go.
6. How to Be an Imperfectionist
by Stephen Guise
This book applies the science of behavior modification directly to the roots of perfectionism, resulting in a new and superior method for change.
Related: Am I A Perfectionist Quiz
WorkBooks About Perfectionism
7. The CBT Workbook for Perfectionism
by Sharon Martin
This workbook will help you identify the root causes of your perfectionism and the ways it is negatively impacting your life. Rather than measuring your self-worth by productivity and accomplishments, you’ll learn to exercise self-compassion, and extend that compassion to others. You’ll also learn ways to prioritize the things that really matter to you, without focusing on attaining fixed goals.
Read: Best 60 Perfectionism Quotes To Overcome Perfectionism
8. The Perfectionism Workbook
by Taylor Newendorp
In his work as a clinical therapist, Taylor Newendorp has successfully used cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to help countless patients who live with the immense pressure of perfectionism and other related issues.
The Perfectionism Workbook offers actionable exercises to help you overcome the barriers created by perfectionism and develop skills for living a healthier, more gratifying life.
9. The ACT Workbook for Perfectionism
by Jennifer R. Kemp
Grounded in evidence-based acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), this workbook offers an innovative approach to help you maintain your high standards while also accepting mistakes with compassion and kindness.
Related: Top 30 Affirmations For Perfectionism (+FREE Worksheets)
10. The Perfectionism Journal
by Tina Kocol
The Perfectionism Journal offers:
- Thoughtful prompts to help you gain greater insight into your relationship with perfectionism.
- Essential exercises to cultivate a healthier attitude and manage your impulses.
- Room to reflect where you can record your thoughts and think deeply about your experiences so you can put them into perspective.
Perfectionism Worksheets
How Books About Perfectionism Can Help?
Books about perfectionism can be incredibly helpful in various ways. Here are a few ways these books can assist:
1. Increasing awareness: Reading about perfectionism can help you better understand the concept and its impact on your life. It can shed light on the root causes, traits, and thought patterns associated with perfectionism, making you more aware of how it manifests in your own behavior.
2. Validation: Books on perfectionism can make you feel less alone by highlighting that many others struggle with similar experiences. Understanding that perfectionism is a common issue can provide a sense of validation and relief, knowing that you’re not the only one facing these challenges.
3. Developing self-compassion: These books often emphasize the importance of self-compassion. They can guide you through exercises, strategies, and practical tips to help you cultivate a more forgiving attitude towards yourself, fostering self-acceptance and resilience.
4. Challenging unrealistic standards: By examining the unrealistic standards set by perfectionism, these books help you challenge and modify your expectations. They provide insights into the negative consequences of striving for perfection and encourage a more realistic and healthier mindset.
5. Offering coping mechanisms: Books about perfectionism often provide practical tools and techniques to cope with its negative effects. These strategies range from mindfulness practices and stress-reduction techniques to setting achievable goals and embracing failure as a learning opportunity.
6. Promoting personal growth: Through introspection and reflection, books on perfectionism can support personal growth and development. They encourage you to explore your values, strengths, and passions, fostering a journey towards self-improvement and finding fulfillment beyond the pursuit of perfection.
