Family Quote by John Bradshaw
““PERFECTIONISM Perfectionism is a family system rule and a core culprit in creating toxic shame. We see it also in both the religious and cultural systems. Perfectionism denies healthy shame. It does so by assuming we can be perfect. Such an assumption denies our human finitude because it denies the fact that we are essentially limited. Perfectionism denies that we will often make mistakes””
About This Quote
Source Book: Healing the Shame that Binds You, John Bradshaw, 1988
Perfectionism imposes an impossible standard, creating shame by denying human limits and the inevitability of mistakes.
In simple terms: Perfectionism creates shame by demanding impossible perfection.
Key Takeaway
Accept imperfection and human limits.
Themes
shame
perfectionism
human limits
mental health
Mood
anxious
reflective
Type
motivational
philosophical
When to use this quote
- therapy sessions
- personal development workshops
- creative projects
- parenting
- workplace performance reviews
Key Concepts
psychology
self‑acceptance
cognitive distortion
Questions to Reflect On
- How does your need for perfection affect your relationships?
- What small step can you take to allow imperfection?
A Different Perspective
Perfectionism can also drive high achievement, making it hard to abandon.
