There are two types of perfectionists, which one are you?

Are you letting perfectionism cripple your writing potential?

Perfectionism can be tamed, and when it calms down you can finish your fiction. If not, it will kill your creativity and keep you stuck for a long time.

Ann Lamott, the author of Bird by Bird, put it perfectly (no pun intended) when she said.,

“perfectionism is the voice of the oppressor, the enemy of the people. It will keep you cramped and insane your whole life. Besides, perfectionism will ruin your writing, blocking inventiveness and playfulness and lifeforce…”

There are two different types of perfectionism

There are probably others, but for the sake of context, I give you two.

the organized perfectionist

This type of perfectionist is highly detailed and very organized. They are motivated by getting the job done. They have strong work ethics and are usually very detailed. Their motivation is goal driven so they do meet their deadlines every time. This type of perfectionism works with you, not against you.

the unorganized perfectionist

This type is still highly detailed and organized but they tend to be less motivated and less action-oriented. They let their perfectionism get in the way as they often miss deadlines and finish projects. Their motivation is usually by external deadlines or fear of completion as opposed to an internal drive. Because they have a hard time completing projects, they can feel inadequate or though they’re not good enough. This is a horrible cycle to be in. 

Which type of perfectionist are you?

Perfectionism is also manifested in procrastination. This is usually when you down the rabbit hole of over-editing or doing research that really doesn’t matter to the story or to your reader.

Perfectionism is also an internal way of thinking. You’re in your head and not thinking about your reader. So, to flip that script, I give two questions to ask yourself every time.

Two questions to ask before perfectionism gets hold of you

is this detail going to matter to my reader?

If not, then you can give yourself permission to let it go. Your reader wants to be mesmerized, to go on a journey that takes them out of their head and into the book. They want inspiration, escape, and to delve into your book, as they turn page after page. They’re not looking at your paragraphs as you are. They just want to read your book.

Is this detail causing me to procrastinate?

Go deeper and ask yourself, If I am procrastinating, why? What am I avoiding?

Take a look at your long-term goals. Is writing a hobby? Is writing something you want to do and do or do you desire to finish your book and be an author?

Being perfect is all about control, so what are you trying to control that is stopping you from writing?

At some point in your writing, you are going to have to surrender to that control to finish your book.

Are you ready?