A conversation I keep having with clients: idealism vs perfectionism

Idealism kills perfectionism

This is a conversation I’ve been having a lot with clients lately. The difference between idealism and perfectionism.

We talk a lot inside MAP about not needing to be "perfect," but some people take that to mean they need to let go of their high standards to be more consistent.

That’s not it.

This is where the notion of idealism comes into play

Idealism gives you direction. It acts as a compass.

It points you toward the kind of person you’re trying to be and the decisions that are aligned with that.

But it leaves room for real life.

Perfectionism doesn’t.

Perfectionism turns that direction into rules.

It becomes: I either hit everything exactly or I failed, and there’s no in-between.

That’s where people get hung up. Because their version of success only works on perfect days.

Idealism sounds more like:
This is the standard I’m moving toward.

What's the most aligned decision I can make today?

Some days, that looks like a full workout. Some days it’s adjusting and doing what you can.

Some days your meals are dialled in. Some days it’s just making better choices than you used to.

That’s not lowering your standards. That’s actually using them the way they’re meant to be used. As guidance, not as rules.

Perfectionism makes you feel like you’re constantly falling short.

Idealism keeps you moving in the right direction, even when the day isn’t perfect.

And that’s the difference I want more people to understand.

Where have you been treating your standards as rules rather than guidance?

Olivia Oneid

Coach, Master Athletic Performance