---
title: "Meaning & Key Takeaway of: Reaching for the stars, perfectionists…"
description: "\"Reaching for the stars, perfectionists may end up clutching at air.\" — David D. Burns"
image: "https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/ca7/david-d-burns-4607_air_reaching-for-the-stars-perfectionists-ma_666875.png"
---

#  Reaching for the stars, perfectionists may end up…

![“Reaching for the stars, perfectionists may end up clutching at air.” quote by David D. Burns](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/ca7/david-d-burns-4607_air_reaching-for-the-stars-perfectionists-ma_666875.png)   [Download](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/ca7/david-d-burns-4607_air_reaching-for-the-stars-perfectionists-ma_666875.png) [Open image](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/ca7/david-d-burns-4607_air_reaching-for-the-stars-perfectionists-ma_666875.png)

> “Reaching for the stars, perfectionists may end up clutching at air.”

[David D. Burns](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/author/david-d-burns/)

## About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Perfectionists aim high but may grasp nothing, leading to frustration and emptiness.

**In simple terms:** Perfectionism can leave you empty.

Key Takeaway

Accept imperfection, set realistic goals.

Themes

perfectionism expectations disappointment

Mood

reflective cautious

Type

motivational philosophical

When to use this quote

- career ambition
- creative projects
- personal relationships
- health goals

Key Concepts

psychology self‑esteem goal setting

Questions to Reflect On

- Do you set unattainable standards?
- How can you celebrate progress?

A Different Perspective

Perfectionism can also drive excellence when balanced.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★   No ratings yet

[Astronomy](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/astronomy/) [Mood disorders](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/mood-disorders/) [Perfection](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/perfection/) [Perfectionist](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/perfectionist/) [Perfectionists](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/perfectionists/) [Reaching for the stars](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/reaching-for-the-stars/) [Stars](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/stars/)

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