The Six Key Themes of Perfectionism

1. Not Good Enough

A deep sense of unworthiness

2. Rigid Rules
I have to do it perfectly! I must not make mistakes! I must not let anyone down!

3. Fear of Breaking The Rules

Intense anxiety or guilt about breaking, bending, or disobeying the rules

4. Experiential Avoidance
Ongoing avoidance of anxiety, fear and guilt - plus all the thoughts & feelings that stem from
that sense of unworthiness

5. Lack of Goal-Setting Skills

Lack of knowledge (or unwillingness to apply it) about how to set adaptive,
life-enhancing, realistic goals

6. Lack of Assertiveness
Not knowing, or failing to utilise, basic assertiveness skills

© Russ Harris, 2023 | Psychwire.com/Harris