The Perfectionist's Dilemma

In today's high-pressure society, we are constantly fed a fable of individualism, exceptionalism, determination, and ingenuity and taught a mythology of grin and bear it; no pain, no gain; and hard work pays off, despite the fact that the conditions for success are unpredictable and ever changing. Psychologist Tara Cousineau claims that perfectionism is a paradox: it is the tension created by the need for belonging, a desire for excellence, and a quest for a meaningful and productive life. But perfectionism can be transformed by learning to connect both head and heart, replacing inner algorithms of comparison and criticism with self-acceptance and self-compassion. In The Perfectionist's Dilemma, Cousineau introduces an innovative six-step solution based on the acronym EVOLVE: Embody the present moment. Validate your experience. Open your heart. Love your inner critic. Make a Vow. Spark Energies of excellence. EVOLVE helps readers overcome perfectionism and cultivate three essential resources - inner worth, inner humanity, and inner leadership. Through storytelling and anecdotes from recovering perfectionists who have participated in Cousineau's workshops, readers can learn to align mind, body, heart, and spirit-to become happy achievers.