5 Effective Strategies to Overcome Perfectionism in Writing as a Writer with Mental Illness
Do you find yourself rewriting a paragraph multiple times because it doesn’t feel perfect? Or perhaps a negative comment on your online novel makes you question your abilities as a writer? If you relate to this, you might be struggling with perfectionism in writing. What is Perfectionism in Writing? Perfectionism in writing is the relentless pursuit of flawless work, an overwhelming fear of mistakes, and an excessive tendency to over-edit drafts. While aiming for excellence is commendable, perfectionism can hold you back by causing self-doubt, procrastination, and even writer’s block. It often leads to fear of judgment, rejection, and unhealthy comparisons with other writers. As a writer, I have experienced this firsthand—especially when supporting fellow writers and seeing their works receive higher ratings and views. It can make you feel inadequate, but the good news is that you can break free from this cycle. Here are five proven strategies to help you overcome perfectionism and cul...