The Perfectionist's Handbook

A guide for getting your perfectionism to work for you

Is perfectionism a good thing or does it get in our way? In The Perfectionist's Handbook, clinical psychologist Jeff Szymanski helps readers navigate their way out of the "perfectionism paradox": if your intentions are good (wanting to excel) and the outcomes you want are reasonable (to feel competent and satisfied), why would perfectionism backfire and result in unhappiness and stress? Learn when perfectionism will pay off, and when and why it sabotages you. Specific strategies are outlined throughout the book to help readers transform their perfectionism from a liability to an asset.

There is no reason to eliminate perfectionism altogether—instead, build on what's working and change what's not. The Perfectionist's Handbook helps readers to:

• Distinguish between intention and strategy as a way of improving outcomes
• Identify diminishing returns and how to redistribute time and resources
• Make the most of mistakes rather than being preoccupied with trying to avoid them
• Learn to focus on your "Top 10" list as a way of getting the most out of your life
• Access others more effectively as a way of improving performance
• Obtain more balance in their lives

JEFF SZYMANSKI, PHD, is the Executive Director of the International OCD Foundation; a Clinical Instructor in Psychology at Harvard Medical School; and a Clinical Associate in Psychology at McLean Hospital. For more information, please visit: and

"You're such a perfectionist." Are you supposed to feel insulted or flattered when you hear this comment? Is someone saying that you are detail oriented, organized, and driven to excel? Or that you are controlling, rigid, and self-defeating? Is your perfectionism a good thing, or does it get in your way? In The Perfectionist's Handbook , Jeff Szymanski helps readers navigate their way out of the "perfectionism paradox": If your intentions are good (wanting to excel) and the outcomes you want are reasonable (to feel competent and satisfied), why would your perfectionism backfire and result in unhappiness, stress, and unwanted results? Many people consider their perfectionism to be one of their most valuable attributes and critical to success in achieving one's life goals. Advice aimed at trying to stop you from being a perfectionist doesn't ring true. Jeff Szymanski, a clinical psychologist specializing in anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), helps readers understand when their perfectionism will pay off, and when and why it sabotages you. Specific strategies are outlined throughout the book to help readers identify the difference between their "healthy" and "unhealthy" perfectionism. There is no reason to eliminate perfectionism altogether--rather, build on what is working and change what is not. In addition, The Perfectionist's Handbook helps readers to: Distinguish between intention and strategy as a way of improving outcomes Identify diminishing returns and ways to redistribute time and resources Make the most of mistakes rather than being preoccupied with trying to avoid them Learn to focus on your "Top 10" list as a way of getting the most out of your life Interact with others more effectively as a way of improving performance Establish more balance in your life Transform your perfectionism from a liability to an asset. Let your instincts lead you to achieve your goals--but also learn to enjoy your journey and its rewards.

Praise for The Perfectionists Handbook "Dr. Szymanski offers the reader both research-supported and user-friendly techniques that can enhance productivity without compromising the pursuit of excellence. The Perfectionists Handbook is an obvious example of how the author practices what he preaches." PHILIP G. LEVENDUSKY , PhD, Associate Professor of Psychology, Harvard Medical School; Director of the Psychology Department and Psychology Training and Senior Vice President for Business Development and Marketing, McLean Hospital " The Perfectionists Handbook is the perfect book for those who struggle with perfectionism. Dr. Szymanski begins by clearly outlining the features of perfectionism then describes the various ways to manage tendencies that get in the way of a perfectionists life. After reading this book, readers will have new ways of managing their perfectionism in order to get tasks completed." MICHAEL A. JENIKE , MD, Professor of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School; Medical Director, OCD Institute, McLean Hospital "This handbook weaves a self-described perfectionists personal story with insights from clinical experience. It is the perfect formula for education and action." PAUL HAMMERNESS , MD, Assistant Professor in Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School; author of Organize Your Mind, Organize Your Life "Jeff Szymanski helps readers determine when good is good enough. Whatever your area of effort, you will be more creative and productive by learning the art of Adaptive Perfectionism!" SHELLEY CARSON , PhD, Department of Psychology, Harvard University;author of Your Creative Brain

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