Have you ever thought about just making one small change to the way you move forward?
This week try setting a time limit for a small decision this week. Choose an option based on what matters most to you, rather than waiting until you feel 100% certain. The idea is to help you move forward rather than continuing to feel overwhelmed and stuck. You can make thoughtful choices without having every answer.
Need an example?
Try setting limits on the following and not second guessing or overthinking these decisions. I know hard! But YOU GOT THIS!
Picking out an outfit.
What to eat at a restaurant
What to prioritize on your to do list
What activity to do
What two choices you need to make
Allow yourself 2-5 minutes to make these decisions. And think to yourself the following before choosing:
What matters the most to me right now?
What option align with my values and needs?
Am I making the decision based on my wants/needs or to please someone else?
Am I searching for the best choice to try to guarantee there is not a wrong one?
Make your choice the time is up. Trust your decision and pay attention to what happens next for you.
Do you feel more anxious?
Are you second guessing yourself?
Do you want to revisit the decision?
Can you let yourself move forward without needed reassurance?
Where in your body are you tense?
The lesson? You don’t need 100% certainty to make every decision. You can learn to trust yourself and if things don’t turn out how you thought they would, you’ll figure it out.
A reminder for perfectionists: Confidence doesn't come from always making the perfect decision. It comes from learning that you can trust yourself even when the outcome is uncertain.
Your perfectionism doesn't have to disappear for you to feel better. Learning how to harness its strengths while letting go of the pressure is where transformation begins.
Looking for a therapist who specializes in perfectionism for high achieving teens and adults? I offer in-person therapy on Rockville Centre, NY, and virtual therapy throughout New York.
Book your free 15-minute consultation to explore how therapy can help you build self-trust, quiet your inner critic, and make more room for confidence and joy—without giving up the drive that makes you who you are.
