There’s a fine line between the Perfectionist and the High Achiever. But there is a line. One is more effective and yields greater success. It is almost a self-actualising opportunity. The other is less effective, leads to fewer outcomes and can be fuelled by fear and a desire for acceptance.

Let’s consider for a moment two individuals preparing to present their ideas at an Executive meeting. The High Achiever carefully considers the forum, audience and what she needs to outline in her presentation to achieve the outcome she is seeking. The focus will be on achieving the desired outcome, the one she needs to achieve her overall goals – the rest is all noise.

The Perfectionist however may spend an excessive amount of time ensuring the layout, look and content is factual, checked and absolutely flawless. The content may be just as exceptional, but precious, often wheel-spinning time has been spent on the noise. Why? She possesses an underlying fear that any mistake or layout blunder may reflect badly on her character or competence. But does it really?

Both the High Achiever and Perfectionist may ultimately achieve the same outcome from their presentations – but on two very different paths. One will need an extra cup of coffee the next day recuperating from all the extra hours of physical and emotional preparation – and hint – it’s not the High Achiever!

A bit about High Achievers . .

High Achievers are oriented with a focus, drive and desire to achieve. They tend to set challenging targets and strive hard to deliver outcomes. They may continually reset targets for increasing challenge. As managers, they’ll also often expect the same from their teams. There can sometimes be a dogged determination.