Perfectionism Recovery: Embracing Rest as a Perfectionist

When all else fails, take a nap.

Written by: Brittany Clausen, MSW

Source: Shutterstock

We’ve been conditioned to work — work before the work even starts, and work a little later. It's become our norm. So much so, that if we work less, we start to judge ourselves—and others. We compare work ethics, because it's easier to point out flaws than to confront the real issue: perfectionism.

Hi, I’m a recovering perfectionist, and it wasn't until just the other day that I was reminded of how perfectionism creeps into every corner of our lives, like an invisible force draining us dry. Let’s be real: as perfectionists, we struggle with a lot of things, but striving for greatness? Oh, we’re really good at that.

But here’s the question we need to ask ourselves: Where does this drive come from? How have we come so far yet still struggle to appreciate ourselves? We’ve been taught to only validate ourselves through external achievements—getting A's, excelling in sports, or being the best at everything. But it’s time to hit pause and rethink all that.

It's time to acknowledge something we don’t hear enough of: We need a break. We’re not moving forward because we’re moving too fast. Out of control. Directionless. It’s time to put down the Superwoman/Superman cape and reconnect with the person you are at your core—an extraordinary one.

You’ve planted so many seeds this month alone, but you can't water them because you’re too dehydrated. It’s not anyone’s fault; it’s the world’s fault for pushing us into this cycle. But you have the power to break it. You can water your own plants, and that starts with something simple: a nap.

Yes, I said it. Take a damn nap. When’s the last time you rested? If you had to think about it, it's probably been way too long. So here’s my challenge: Take a nap. A real one. So good, that you might even drool. Trust me, it’s the kind of rest that’s good for the soul. And for all the perfectionists out there who feel stuck or uninspired, stop resisting the rest. The goal isn’t to do more; it’s to do less. Because your 50% is 100% in the eyes of most people.

So go ahead—give yourself permission to rest. You deserve it.