Why Perfectionists Struggle With Making Decisions

Perfectionists often struggle with decision-making because they tend to set excessively high standards for themselves and their outcomes. These individuals are not satisfied with "good enough"; they aim for flawless results. This pursuit of perfection creates immense pressure when faced with choices, as they fear making the "wrong" decision. Every option is scrutinized in detail, and any potential for error becomes a source of anxiety. As a result, perfectionists may overanalyze every possible consequence, leading to decision paralysis.

Fear of failure

One key factor in their difficulty is an intense fear of failure or regret. Perfectionists often equate a suboptimal outcome with personal inadequacy. This mindset amplifies the stakes of any decision, no matter how small. Choosing the wrong restaurant, career path, or even the wrong word in an email becomes a reflection of their competence and worth. This fear prevents them from taking action because the possibility of falling short is intolerable.

Seeking excessive information 

Another reason perfectionists struggle is because of their tendency to seek excessive amounts of information before making a decision. They may research endlessly, hoping to uncover the “perfect” choice, which often doesn’t exist. This pursuit can delay decision-making indefinitely, as new data always raises new questions. Ironically, the desire for certainty leads to more confusion and indecision rather than clarity and confidence.

Rumination 

Perfectionists also tend to ruminate on past decisions, especially those they perceive as flawed. This backward-looking mindset erodes trust in their own judgment and makes future decisions even harder. They become haunted by “what ifs,” imagining how different things could have been if only they had made a better choice. This constant second-guessing feeds into a vicious cycle of self-doubt and hesitation.

Black and white thinking 

Furthermore, many perfectionists have a black-and-white view of outcomes: a decision is either completely right or totally wrong. This binary thinking ignores the nuanced reality that most decisions exist in shades of gray, with trade-offs and unpredictable consequences. Because they can’t tolerate ambiguity or imperfection, perfectionists delay decisions, hoping to find a perfect path that offers total assurance and no downside—a rare, if not impossible, situation.

Concern about judgment 

Lastly, perfectionism is often linked to concerns about how others will judge their choices. The desire to appear competent, intelligent, or successful can drive individuals to overthink every decision in order to meet perceived external expectations. This focus on image adds another layer of complexity and stress to decision-making, as they are not only trying to satisfy themselves but also impress or please others. This external pressure compounds the internal perfectionist standards, making it even harder to commit to a choice.

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