Maximal Ep. 381 | Perfectionism (Patreon)

The Minimalists talk with author and psychotherapist Katherine Morgan Schafler about perfectionism, letting go of the “perfect” self, perfectionism at work, procrastination, finding balance between hobbies, overcoming resistance, and more!

Discussed in this episode:

How do I overcome my perfectionist tendencies so I can get my work done? (03:16)

What are your perspectives regarding power? (05:25)

How do we address an unhealthy obsession with perfectionism? (13:53)

How do I live peacefully with a non-minimalist? (18:33)

What are the five types of perfectionists? (27:55)

How do I let go of others’ expectations of me? (32:12)

How do we make time for our passions and still fulfill our obligations and responsibilities? (40:30)

What can students do to better balance a full course load and personal time? (51:22)

How do you define “perfectionism”? (58:01)

Segment: Lightning Round (1:04:24)

How do The Minimalists make money without ad revenue? (1:04:56)

Segment: Right Here, Right Now (1:10:59)

What is the difference between procrastination and resistance? (1:12:49)

Listener comments and minimalism tips. (1:15:13)

Segment: Talkaboutables (1:17:15)

What are your views regarding toxic masculinity? (1:17:20)

What is our society’s obsession with being offended? (1:24:25)

Segment: T.K.’s Tweet of the Week (1:36:44)

How do you appropriately manage guilt? (1:37:27)

Segment: Obsolete Objects (1:40:47)

Segment: Sucky Ads (1:45:58)

Segment: Photo Friday Home Tour (1:56:59)

What can I do to let go of trying to control the future and live more fully in the present? (2:01:09)

Segment: Added Value (2:06:54)

LINKS

Added Value: “Smile”

Added Value: Washcloth

Book: The Perfectionist’s Guide to Losing Control

Book: The War of Art

Course: How to Write Better

Essay: 1,000 True Fans

Event: Sunday Symposium

Podcast: The Prof G Pod

Resources: The Minimalists

Subscribe: The Minimalists

Tour: The Minimalists

Website: Katherine Morgan Schafler

MAXIMS

Perfection cannot be attained; it is the default state of the universe.

Decluttering does not bring peace—it creates the environment in which peace is not disturbed.

Perfectionism is the path away from peace.

Life has no crystalline endpoint other than death; until then, the river of self continues to flow, change, reform.

Balance is the default state. Life is out of balance only when too many obligations are heaped onto your plate.

Resistance is a beacon that illuminates meaningful pursuits.

For most of history, people earned money without a single advertisement.

Money is the byproduct of adding value.

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