Best 10 Books About Perfectionism (+FREE Perfectionism Worksheets)

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.