Rethinking Perfectionism in Leadership: Striking the Balance for Success

Perfection, on the surface, seems like an admirable pursuit. A perfectionist leader appears to have high standards, an unrelenting drive to excel, and a keen eye for detail. However, when perfectionism towers beyond healthy levels, it can morph into a self-defeating loop, impacting productivity, stifling creativity, and impairing overall team growth.

Perfectionist behavior can stem from a fear of failure or criticism. It can cloud judgement, hinder risk-taking, and create unnecessary stress. A leader constantly nitpicking minor faults, or obsessed with achieving unachievable standards, can undermine their team’s confidence and stifle their own leadership growth.

That being said, dismissing perfectionism entirely could provide an ill-fitted solution. Instead, consider rethinking and reshaping perfectionism. Embrace high standards but combine them with realistic goals and balanced perspectives.

This is where two critical skills come into play: judicious delegation and self-evaluation.

Delegation, while often perceived as a sign of passing over responsibilities, when done judiciously can be a powerful tool for leadership growth. It acknowledges the capabilities of team members, empowers them, and

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David Dawkins

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