An interesting phrase occasionally heard in the sports world is that a player is “suffering from the ‘yips.'” Commonly associated with golf, this phenomenon also occurs in baseball, football, tennis, and other sports requiring precise hand-eye coordination. Far from being a myth, the yips represent an actual condition. Typically, it arises in athletes who frequently use a specific group of muscles for intense activities.
The underlying causes of the yips can be both neurological and psychological. Often, it’s linked to anxiety over performance. A pivotal study in 1969 by Maynard and Woodman connected the yips to individuals with an intense perfectionism profile. Since then, it has been widely accepted that this form of anxiety and pressure can trigger the condition.
There are numerous accounts of top-tier athletes who suddenly face an epic struggle, unable to perform even the most basic motions correctly. This phenomenon underscores one of the profound impacts of perfectionism: the immense anxiety stemming from a fear of “not doing anything wrong.
This topic holds personal significance for me, as I, too, have experienced this ailment. Growing up, the fear of making a mistake or failing was a constant companion, often paralyzing me to the point where I couldn’t take any positive action. I believe this trait is prevalent, especially noticeable in younger generations. While athletes might exhibit the yips as a physical manifestation, I argue that the impact of perfectionism is even more insidious in its effects on our mental state and mood. The same underlying fear that disrupts an athlete’s physical performance can also deeply affect our emotional well-being and decision-making processes.
In many companies, perfectionists are often found in leadership roles or as key team members. They’re typically high achievers, known for their exceptional attention to detail and a tendency to stand out. However, their relentless pursuit of doing everything right and avoiding any criticism can be profoundly unhealthy, not just for themselves but also for those around them. While I’m not qualified to offer counsel on managing this condition, I believe it’s crucial for us all to understand the prevalence and potential destructiveness of the “I must do everything right” mentality. Recognizing its impact is essential, not only for personal well-being but also for the health of an organization.
To escape becoming “rotten with perfection,” as Kenneth Burke eloquently put it, I suggest we adopt an alternative definition of perfection. Rather than viewing it as the absence of all wrongdoing, let’s consider perfection as a state of alignment. The crucial question then becomes: alignment with what? This, inherently, is a personal decision. It involves aligning with what you perceive as your life’s purpose or raison d’être. If you find yourself in perfect harmony with a cause you truly believe in, that should be your benchmark for perfection rather than obsessing over every minor mistake. A person who is singularly focused and consistently directed towards a specific goal will invariably be more effective than someone who does everything ‘right’ but is scattered and distracted by multiple objectives.
Forward progress is the mantra of the forgiven soul, while fear and regret are often the burdens of the perfectionist.” For those familiar with Christian teachings, you may recall Jesus concluding one of His most famous sermons with the directive, “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father in Heaven is perfect.” As someone not deeply versed in religious studies, I am intrigued by the interpretation of this phrase. Some scholars suggest a more accurate translation might be “be complete” rather than “be perfect.” If this is the case, the meaning becomes profoundly different. The emphasis shifts from an unattainable state of being without error to a more holistic concept of being complete or aligned with a higher purpose. Which is more vital, then? To be entirely free from error or to be complete, embracing a greater, more meaningful existence?
There’s a certain irony in the plight of the perfectionist, who, consumed by constant angst over making mistakes, ironically ends up ‘doing everything wrong’ by losing sight of their purpose. This paradox highlights a profound truth often recognized by those who are older and wiser. With more experience, these individuals typically advise the younger and less experienced to not sweat the small stuff. Their counsel often emphasizes the importance of staying the course rather than getting bogged down by minor setbacks. They understand the true power of a life driven by dedication and purpose. In this light, we can indeed achieve a state of perfection, but it requires the right perspective—a perspective broad enough to render the smallest errors insignificant.
Age does bring a broader perspective. It is a personal freedom to not sweat the small stuff. A sense of peace envelopes you .
Is that what I have to look forward to!