When “High Standards” Start Holding You Back

Perfectionism is often seen as a badge of honor in ambitious professionals. After all, attention to detail, high standards, and relentless drive are what set you apart — right?

But here’s the truth: perfectionism isn’t helping your career — it’s quietly sabotaging it.

From decision paralysis to burnout to strained leadership, the effects are more damaging than most professionals realize. And the higher you rise in your career, the more dangerous perfectionism becomes.

If you’ve ever said, “I’ll share this when it’s perfect”, “I hate asking for help”, or “No one else can do it as well as I can” — this article is for you.

What Is Perfectionism (Really)?

Perfectionism isn’t just high standards. It’s the fear of failure, judgment, or not being enough. It often shows up as:

• Overworking or over-preparing
• Delaying or avoiding action due to fear it won’t be “good enough”
• Micromanaging or refusing to delegate
• Harsh self-criticism after any mistake
• Fear of visibility or sharing unfinished work

And while it may have helped you early in your career, it quickly becomes a liability in leadership.

How Perfectionism Hurts Your Career

1. It Slows Down Progress

Perfectionists delay key decisions, avoid delegation, and over-polish deliverables — which bottlenecks innovation and execution.

Reid Hoffman, Founder of LinkedIn, famously said:

“If you’re not embarrassed by the first version of your product, you’ve launched too late.”

This mindset — imperfect action over perfection paralysis — drives momentum.

2. It Damages Leadership Trust

If you struggle to trust others to do things “right,” you may unintentionally micromanage or disempower your team. That erodes trust, morale, and creativity.

3. It Fuels Burnout

Trying to do it all, perfectly, with no room for error? That’s a recipe for mental exhaustion, stress, and physical burnout — especially for high-achievers.

4. It Blocks Visibility and Promotion

Many perfectionists don’t speak up until they feel 110% ready. That means missed opportunities, undervaluing themselves, and staying invisible when it matters most.

What the Research Says

• A study from the University of Bath and York St. John University found that perfectionism has risen 33% since the 1980s and is closely linked to anxiety, depression, and burnout.
• The Harvard Business Review warns that perfectionist leaders often create cultures of fear and hesitation — stalling innovation and collaboration.

Real-World Example: Brené Brown

Brené Brown, the researcher and bestselling author known for her work on vulnerability and leadership, admits:

“Perfectionism is not the same thing as striving to be your best. Perfectionism is a shield.”

She shares how letting go of perfectionism made her a more courageous communicator, more confident leader, and more connected human being.

How Executive Coaching Helps You Break the Perfectionism Cycle

Executive coaching creates a confidential space where you can challenge the beliefs driving your perfectionism — and reframe them into strengths:

• From: “I must get it right.”
  To: “I must move forward and learn.”
• From: “I can’t show weakness.”
  To: “Real leadership means being human.”
• From: “Only I can do it perfectly.”
  To: “Done by my team is better than perfect by me.”

Coaching helps you:

• Build confidence that isn’t conditional on flawless performance
• Set high standards without paralyzing expectations
• Lead with impact, not fear
• Take action even when things aren’t “perfect”

Final Thoughts: Perfectionism Feels Safe — Until It Isn’t

The need to be perfect is often a hidden barrier to growth. It keeps you safe, but small.

If you want to lead boldly, grow faster, and be seen as a high-impact leader — it’s time to let go of perfection and lean into progress, presence, and purpose.

Feeling stuck in perfectionism? You’re not alone.

→ Book a free coaching clarity session and explore how to lead with more confidence, ease, and impact.