Perfectionism - June 2021
Perfectionism…a word known all too well in the gymnastics community and being a perfectionist is worn with pride like a badge of honor. I challenge you to think if your gymnasts’ perfectionistic tendencies are actually hurting them more than helping them. Do your gymnasts shut down after making a mistake? Avoid risk? As a gymnast, we want the highest scores possible while always striving for that perfect 10. But can it be completed without being a perfectionist? Yes!
Perfectionists have the belief that everything must be perfect all the time and feel like a failure when they are not perfect. A perfectionist sets impossible goals and feels crushed when they are not achieved. Perfectionism contributes to problems such as stress, anxiety, depression, and burnout. Another downfall of being a perfectionist is being only motivated by fear of failure or they only see themselves in extremes as either perfect or a failure. Athletes will get frustrated when they make mistakes and underperform in competition. Most times a perfectionist’s self-esteem is on meeting impossible standards and they avoid risk or trying new things for fear they will fail.
Instead of trying to be perfect try to strive for excellence. But how?
Set realistic standards and goals.
See both strengths and areas for improvement.
Help your gymnasts manage their frustration and help them understand mistakes are OK.
Help them set realistic expectations.
Mindfulness is also a great way to helps athletes become more aware of the unhelpful thought process that is driving perfectionism.
Focus more on the process than the outcome (ex. square hips, arms by ears – instead of winning or a score)
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