10 Ways to Let Go of Perfectionism to Become a More Productive Writer

I wonder how many stories just sit in draft format? Never published because they are just not perfect enough. The problem is what one person perceives to be perfection another may disagree on. Out of all the unhelpful thinking habits, we can apply perfectionism is the one that will delay us the most in pushing that 'publish' button.

It is a helpful habit that can lead to burnout and feelings of inadequacy. So, what can we do about this to ensure we write better, consistently, but imperfectly.

1. Understand what lurks behind perfectionism

The first step in overcoming perfectionism is understanding where it comes from. Ultimately it is due to a fear of failure and rejection. The thing is in order to learn, grow and appreciate what we achieve we need a dose of failure and rejection. Technically speaking if you don’t achieve something, but keep working on it — it’s not really a failure. Use these lessons learned as the stepping stones to success.

2. Appreciate moderation

Understand that perfectionism isn’t all bad if used in moderation! There is a clear line between excellence and demanding perfection. For example having high standards, up for a challenge, working consistently and hard, setting goals, and aiming for success. The danger lies when the focus turns to a failure-orientated perfectionism mindset. Where goals stop being met, work doesn’t get done, and overwhelm sets in.

3. Deal with the overwhelm

It’s okay to take a break. Taking time out from writing is not a failure it’s a recharge. Sometimes we can work so hard on something that we can become blind to what is in front of us. By stopping, taking a step back, observing emotions, where your current focus of attention is, and pulling back you can start to put things in perspective. Often I write posts over a weekend, but don’t edit to Monday and Tuesday so I can look upon the posts with fresh eyes — it’s just like hitting that refresh button.

4. Use modes of working

Another thing that will lead to overwhelm is trying to do everything all at once. When I am in ‘flowmo’ it’s all about getting the words out of my head and onto the screen. During that mode of working, I am not in edit mode. Edit mode happens on day 2, publisher mode happens on day 3, and promotion mode on day 4+. Don’t be afraid to chunk things into manageable steps in order to move forward.

5. Challenge the need to compare with compassion

Your best mate is writing an article, you have read it and it’s great, but she is hesitating on hitting that publish button as she feels she doesn’t write as well as other people. At this moment you encourage, motivate and support — least I hope you would! So if we would do this for a friend why do we not self-encourage? Learn to be your own cheerleader. If an article does not do as well as you hoped learn from this. Don’t use it as an excuse to give up!

6. Embrace Mindfulness

Practicing mindfulness can really help you to let go of perfectionism. It’s all about being fully present in the moment and being aware of those negative thoughts, but not self-judging. It could be helpful to label these thoughts (but no more than one word). So for example, if you are thinking “No one will read this article”. Label it under opinion as the fact is you don’t know who will read it and if you don’t publish absolutely no one will read it.

7. Experiment with co-production

One great way to help you let go of perfectionism is to co-produce some of your articles. Work in collaboration with other writers and even get your readers involved. This way you are not making assumptions on what you think your readings want. This will also open you up to new ideas and thinking. It gives an element of accountability too. If you don’t feel ready to push that publish button someone else in the team will.

8. Consider subjectivity

Perfectionism can be subjective. You may view something as perfect when to another it may be riddled with flaws. Sometimes this can be from opinion, other times this can be from fact. Either way, perfectionism does not always lead to productivity and can be bad for a writer’s mental (and physical well-being too).

9. Learn to accept feedback

Learn to accept feedback both good and bad. If someone pays you a compliment, but you feel like you don’t deserve it. Still say “thank you” — don’t answer with an excuse such as the classic “Yeah but I..” If someone gives you positive feedback that is a gift. They don’t have to say that to you, but they have to accept it.

Equally, constructive feedback can also be a gift. It will enable you to grow as a writer. Try to see feedback as part of the process to success and not a roadblock. Perfectionists tend to have low self-esteem and anxiety so any criticism can cut real deep. Cognitive Behaviour Therapy can really help in allowing the acceptance of feedback and let go of what is holding you back.

10. Set realistic goals

Setting goals is important for success, but they need to be realistic and also work with your own unique values. There are lots of models out there to help you set achievable clear goals. One such model is SMART. This stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, realistic, and timely. An example: Between the 1st and 31st July I plan to write 20 articles on mental wellbeing in 20 days. I will have every weekend off.

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In summary:

Remember when setting goals to take your own wellbeing into consideration too. Allow for breaks and you could also include other people you could delegate to or who could support you. Good luck!

I’d love to know how you get on with letting go of perfectionism?

👉 If you found this useful check out my other stories here 🖤