There are plenty of double-edged swords in today’s world. Technology, social media, ambition – to name a few. But in the legal profession, none comes sharper than perfectionism.
Often touted as a lawyer’s secret weapon for success, perfectionism can boost productivity and improve your case results. But there is a shadow to this trait.
We spoke with Shona Rowan, a people and culture consultant, high-performance coach and best-selling author, on how to spot, harness and tackle perfectionism – for a constructive and sustained legal career.
How to wield your perfectionist sword rather than fall on it…
The allure of perfectionism
It’s a tale as old as time. A lawyer pours over their case notes, searching for mistakes and missed details. Then they strut into court, armed with hidden knowledge and confidence – and argue their way to a glorious win.
What got them over the line? Their meticulous attention to detail. Their penchant for perfectionism.
While this exact scenario may not play out daily, you’ve likely experienced a similar moment. When perfectionism helped you achieve a successful result – or won you praise.
Shona says that’s because the competitive nature and high expectations of the legal profession encourage this way of working.
“There is a constant need for expertise from lawyers. So, they’re incentivised to produce exceptionally high-quality work – and often work diligently to create it. I see many high achievers with perfectionist tendencies.”
But there can be some collateral damage in this quest for excellence.
The downside of perfectionism
One of perfectionism’s biggest pitfalls? Analysis paralysis.
“This is when people are unable to make a choice or complete a task due to fear of making mistakes,” Shona says. “Their need for impeccable results brings this excessive attention and revision.”
This overthinking (and, at times, procrastination) often results in a time drain – and pulls attention away from other crucial tasks.
“On top of that, perfectionists tend to struggle with delegation and overwork. And when you combine these factors, you get an emotional toll: high stress, anxiety or even burnout.”
So it is important to consider the impact perfectionism may be having on your personal and working lives. It could take a toll on your health and wellbeing, it may also take a toll on your efficiency and productiveness.
The causes of perfectionism
While it’s tempting to pinpoint a root cause of perfectionism, there are many reasons it occurs.
“Our thoughts, beliefs and expectations create perfectionism. And those are shaped by our life experiences. So, if you've had a lot of criticism, rejection or unrealistic expectations in the past – either professionally or personally – you’re more likely to experience perfectionism.”
Other factors like our workplace culture, parental relationships and past trauma can contribute to perfectionist tendencies. Shona encourages lawyers to reflect on their identity and life experiences to uncover their own unique reasons.
"Personality traits like high levels of conscientiousness and self-criticism can predispose people to perfectionism," Shona says. "As can past trauma, as can the family environment or parental style we grew up with. Even societal norms that emphasise achievement and success can further propel perfectionism - and don't forget the impact of social media."
Spotting (and stopping) perfectionism in its tracks
So, now you know why perfectionism occurs. How can you tell if it’s adversely affecting you?
“You need to be on the lookout for a few things internally,” Shona explains. “Do you feel increased stress or anxiety? Check in with your body. Are you physically exhausted from overwork?
“Then have a look at your external world. Have you missed (or nearly missed) deadlines, are you struggling to sleep or maintain healthy relationships? If yes, that’s a pretty clear indication you’re in the grips of perfectionism.”
Checklist:
- Increased levels of stress, anxiety or depression
- Insomnia or physical exhaustion from overworking
- Reduced productivity, missed deadlines or analysis paralysis
- Pervasive strained relationships
- Lower levels of happiness, energy or satisfaction in your personal or professional life
Say you’ve identified perfectionism lurking in your professional toolkit, the next question becomes: how can you harness its strengths while curbing its excesses? According to Shona, the first step is unpicking your relationship to perfectionism.
“This is about challenging how you see perfectionism. If you tell yourself it’s a badge of honour, your subconscious will continue to drive it. It’s deep work that takes time, and there’s no shortcut.”
“You don’t have to lower your standards. But you do need to learn to accept that not everything deserves your time and energy to the same degree."
Shona's 5 practical steps to help you manage your perfectionism
1. It all starts with reviewing our mindset and psychology: So the first step is to challenge the way you view perfectionism....is it really the be-all and end-all? Could it be creating lots of additional stress in your career and in fact, be holding you back? Is it really helping you perform better? What does it even mean to be perfect?
2. Learning to accept that not everything deserves the same amount of time and energy: I always say to my clients aim for excellence over perfection. Consider your time, resources, and objectives. Many times, done is better than perfect.
3. Embracing a growth mindset, see mistakes as opportunities for learning and improvement: Remember we are all a work in progress and be kinder to yourself when this happens.
4. Focussing on your strengths more than your perceived weaknesses: Perfectionism can cause us to focus on the negative aspects of ourselves or our development areas and lose touch with all our amazing strengths.
5. Seeking coaching or support: Knowing this information at a conscious level is not enough. It takes time, application and commitment to address the stress, self-criticism and negative thoughts, beliefs and associated behaviour patterns that often come with perfectionism.
It can be helpful to dive into quality resources – like Shona’s book ‘The Psychology of Successful Women’ or ‘The Gifts of Imperfection’ by author and professor Brene Brown – to practise identifying and harnessing perfectionism. After all, practice drives progress.
A note on imposter syndrome while we are at it
Where Batman has Robin, perfectionism has imposter syndrome. So, let’s touch on this fickle phenomenon while we’re here.
“Imposter syndrome is this pervasive feeling of self-doubt, inadequacy and incompetence despite evidence of success,” Shona explains. “People who struggle with it often feel a sense of intellectual fraudulence, or like they're not as good, capable or smart as others.”
According to Shona, it often goes hand-in-hand with perfectionism. And together, they can create an unhealthy cycle of self-doubt, unrealistic expectations and self-judgment.
“Studies show that 80% of lawyers experience imposter syndrome at some point in their careers, compared to 70% of the general population. That’s a concerning statistic."
While there may be some motivational benefits to imposter syndrome (and perfectionism), like driving individuals to work harder for success and adhere to high standards, prolonged imposter syndrome can lead to disadvantages.
"It can lead to career stagnation and hinder long-term achievement as people with imposter syndrome often say 'no' to opportunities as they don’t feel good enough, or smart enough, and have a fear of being found out as a fraud. This may lead them to avoid challenges and opportunities for growth and career progression," Shona explains.
"Prolonged imposter syndrome can erode self-esteem and self-worth, making it difficult for individuals to appreciate their accomplishments. The constant pressure to prove oneself can lead to chronic stress and anxiety and eventually burnout and exhaustion over time."
Pain points for lawyers
Early in their career: Many lawyers experience imposter syndrome during their early years in practice. The transition from law school to real-world legal practice can be daunting, and the pressure to prove oneself can be intense.
Job transitions: Lawyers may feel imposter syndrome when transitioning to new roles or areas of law, moving to a different firm, or transitioning from private practice to public service.
Promotions and advancements: Interestingly imposter syndrome can become more pronounced as lawyers progress in their careers and take on higher-level roles. The increased responsibility and visibility may lead to self-doubt and feelings of inadequacy.
Comparisons with peers: Lawyers often compare themselves to their peers, and this constant benchmarking can contribute to imposter syndrome, especially when colleagues appear to be more successful or confident.
“We need to be talking about this – reducing the stigma and normalising it in the profession. So people can seek support and achieve balance, longevity and success in their careers,” Shona says.
Embracing a healthier approach for a better life
The road away from the confines of perfectionism and imposter syndrome is paved with practical strategies. Reflection techniques, such as journaling and asking yourself challenging questions, are invaluable. Shona says these will keep you alert to the comparison trap and other negative mental health impacts.
“While it may sound counterintuitive in the legal world, remember that good is generally better than perfect. And it may even propel your career.”
Now you have greater insight into understanding perfectionism we hope this can help build a more balanced approach to your work.
About Shona Rowan
Shona Rowan is a people and culture consultant, high-performance coach, keynote speaker and best-selling author. She is also the founder of The Psychology of Successful Women Career Acceleration Program and Podcast.
Shona has over 15 years of international experience working with Fortune 500 companies, professional service firms, entrepreneurs, business owners and career-minded individuals to accelerate their careers, overcome imposter syndrome, maximise performance and accelerate their success.
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