Perfectionism in leadership can be a powerful force, driving leaders to set high standards and achieve exceptional results. However, this same drive can also lead to overwhelming stress and a constant sense of inadequacy, ultimately hindering both personal and professional success. As an executive leadership coach, I’ve seen how perfectionism can become a double-edged sword, pushing leaders to excel while also creating significant obstacles.
My experience has equipped me to coach leaders in transforming the challenges of perfectionism into strengths. By addressing its pitfalls and harnessing its potential, I guide leaders in developing resilience and authenticity. Here’s how you can master leadership perfectionism with these six actionable tips.
Embrace Imperfection as a Growth Opportunity: Perfectionist leaders often fear mistakes, seeing them as failures. However, embracing imperfection can open the door to learning and growth. By viewing setbacks as valuable lessons rather than shortcomings, leaders can foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.
Set Realistic Expectations: While high standards are essential, setting realistic and attainable goals is equally important. Perfectionist leaders should assess whether their expectations are achievable and adjust them to reflect a balance between excellence and practicality.
Prioritize Self-Care: The relentless pursuit of perfection can lead to exhaustion and burnout. Leaders need to prioritize their well-being by practicing self-care, setting boundaries, and ensuring they have time to recharge. A healthy leader is better equipped to lead effectively and inspire their team.
Delegate and Empower Others: Perfectionist leaders often struggle with delegation, fearing that others won’t meet their high standards. However, empowering team members by delegating tasks can foster trust, collaboration, and a sense of ownership. It also allows leaders to focus on strategic priorities.
Celebrate Progress, Not Just Perfection: A perfectionist mindset often overlooks progress in favor of an unattainable ideal. Leaders should celebrate small wins and milestones, recognizing the efforts and achievements of their team. This shift in focus can boost morale and motivate continued progress.
Seek Feedback and Support: Perfectionist leaders may hesitate to seek feedback, fearing criticism. However, constructive feedback is a powerful tool for growth. Leaders should surround themselves with trusted advisors, coaches, or mentors who can provide perspective, guidance, and support.
By addressing the challenges of perfectionism with intention and mindfulness, leaders can harness its positive aspects while mitigating its negative impacts. Thriving as a perfectionist leader is about finding balance, embracing growth, and leading with resilience.
Lead From Within: Leadership isn’t perfectionism; it’s about embracing growth, learning, and well-being for lasting success.
#1 N A T I O N A L B E S T S E L L E R
The Leadership Gap
What Gets Between You and Your Greatness
After decades of coaching powerful executives around the world, Lolly Daskal has observed that leaders rise to their positions relying on a specific set of values and traits. But in time, every executive reaches a point when their performance suffers and failure persists. Very few understand why or how to prevent it.
Additional Reading you might enjoy:
- How Your Leadership Perfectionism Sabotages Your Success in 5 Surprising Ways
- 7 Things You Need to Stop Doing If You Want to Be Leading
- How to Survive a Micromanaging Leader
- Many Great Leaders Make This Simple Mistake When Leading Others
- 7 Signs That Quickly Identify Someone With Bad Leadership Skills
- How to Avoid Looking Incompetent When Leading
Of Lolly’s many awards and accolades, Lolly was designated a Top-50 Leadership and Management Expert by Inc. magazine. Huffington Post honored Lolly with the title of The Most Inspiring Woman in the World. Her writing has appeared in HBR, Inc.com, Fast Company (Ask The Expert), Huffington Post, and Psychology Today, and others. Her newest book, The Leadership Gap: What Gets Between You and Your Greatness has become a national bestseller.