Get Unstuck: Break the Perfectionist-Procrastination Cycle

Do you ever feel stuck when it comes to doing things you know you need to do, but for some reason, you can’t do them? While yes, you may be tired, I’m actually suggesting that it might be tied to something deeper than that.? I see a lot of women struggle with this because they are caught up in the Perfectionist-Procrastination Cycle.

It starts with the need for perfection, where you think, "I need everything to be perfect before I start," leading to anxiety and fear of mistakes. This results in setting unrealistic (self-imposed) standards that are impossible to meet. The fear of getting started then sets in with thoughts like, "I’m not ready yet. What if I fail?" causing overwhelm and self-doubt, making you delay action while waiting for the 'perfect' moment. However, this 'perfect' moment never arrives, leading to further procrastination. This creates a pattern of self-sabotage, which can be incredibly frustrating, especially when you are otherwise proficient in many areas of your life.

When I coach women stuck in this cycle, I aim to help them remove the blocks that keep them from neglecting their needs and boundaries. One effective strategy is identifying Small, Simple Tasks (SSTs) that they can complete in less than 60 seconds to support their health and well-being. While these tasks may seem insignificant, small actions done consistently over time yield significant results. Asking my clients to commit to one SST for the next 30 days often leads to substantial progress in their wellness goals. (Click here to learn more about my coaching program)

I also believe that our words have power, and I have built a practice of using affirmations to create space for grace and to give myself permission to not be perfect. Here are some things that I say to myself to move from a state of paralysis by perfection to taking messy, often imperfect, action:

• It doesn’t have to be perfect, I just need to start.
• Even if I only have 15 minutes to work out, that’s better than not working out at all.
• Any progress counts.
• Just start and see what happens.
• I can always go back and make changes later.
• I may not know how to do it, but I’ll figure it out.
• No one expects this first draft to be perfect.
• Future Allison will be so happy that I got started on this now.

Understanding and addressing the Perfectionist-Procrastination Cycle is crucial for breaking free from its hold. Perfection is not the goal – progress is.? What strategy will you use to help you start to break the cycle??

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NOURISHED is designed for women seeking to break free from stress, self-doubt, and burnout. In this transformative group coaching program, you'll manage stress, set healthy boundaries, simplify wellness practices, and establish sustainable habits. Join a supportive community where you can share your journey and thrive together. Be the first to know when the doors open! Click here to join the waitlist and take the first step toward becoming the healthiest, happiest, and most fulfilled version of yourself.?

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About Allison Tibbs

Allison Tibbs is the CEO of Nourished Life Coaching & Consulting, a certified personal trainer, wellness coach, and on-camera fitness trainer for Tonal & BODi, who used her personal journey through overcoming depression and burnout to help her diverse global clientele prioritize their physical and mental health.? She has worked with companies like Cisco, Genentech, Cartier, and Waymo, has been featured in Women’s Health, PopSugar, and Shape Magazine, and travels the world offering keynotes. She currently splits her time between San Francisco and Los Angeles, California. For more information, visit her website www.AllisonTibbs.com?