It's the personality trait that comes with a cultural stamp of approval. Working hard, striving for better results, never settling - these qualities aren't just socially acceptable, they're actively encouraged. But while your perfectionism can indeed reward you with success, it can also compromise your emotional wellbeing. Research has linked perfectionism with a whole host of health issues, from raising your risk of anxiety and depression, to putting you on a path to burnout. This week, Senior Editor Roisín Dervish O’Kane hears from one of the foremost researchers on perfectionism, Dr Thomas Curran, Professor of Psychological and Behavioural Science at London School of Economics, and Clinical Psychologist Dr Jessamy Hibberd, author of The Imposter Cure, to find out why perfectionism can be so damaging, and how to manage it for the sake of your wellbeing. 

Join Women’s Health on Instagram: @womenshealthuk

Join Roisín Dervish-O’Kane on Instagram: @roisin.dervishokane

Join Dr Jessamy Hibberd on Instagram: @drjessamy

Join Dr Thomas Curran on Twitter: @thom_curran

Have a goal in mind that you want us to put to the experts? Find us on Instagram @womenshealthuk and drop a voice note into our inbox, telling us your name and your goal, and it could be the subject of a future episode. 

Topics: 

What are the different kinds of perfectionism? 

How does perfectionism hold you back? 

How do you know if your perfectionism is unhealthy? 

What’s the 80% rule and how can it help you?

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices