The inherent flaw of perfectionism

I am a perfectionist. What's worse is that I am an organized perfectionist! If I do not accomplish what I set out to achieve perfectly - I have this persistant, nagging feeling of needing to 'redo' it. Start over, start again, start fresh.

For instance, this week. The perfectionist in my is ready to say "I haven't done any of the stuff that I set out to do", when in reality - I have stuck to my menu about 60%, and I have worked out once this week. However, I did eat some chips, and chocolate ice cream, and some vietnamese food. I have also missed a couple of exercise classes. Ok - so it isn't  what I had hoped I would do, but certainly I have done some of it.

Yet I have this nagging feeling in me. Telling me this week is ruined. It can't be salvaged. I will need to wait until next week to start over. That is crap, but there is this feeling in me that won't let it go.

I know it is crazy, and it makes no sense. But it won't leave me alone! I just keep on wanting to 'start over' 'start fresh' 'start new' - NEXT week. Why can't I start again in the next meal? The next day even? Why does there have to be a next? Why can't I start over NOW???

It isn't in me to start now. I set these weekly goals, and if I didn't complete them perfectly I need to wait until next week to create new goals? That is silly!

Anyone else notice this? What is with it? Really?

Salvageable.

A lot of people get in the all or nothing attitude (perfectionism?) and when something gets missed, a glass of water, a workout, or something they figure they have bombed and can just wait til next week to get back on track.

Just set small goals.  One thing at a time that you can focus on.  Hint:  this week, I will get my water in.  Next week, I will add working out, so 2 things to focus on.  The following week, add journaling.

You have come a great distance!!  You are definitely succeeding at this!! 

I had a tiny twinge of guilt, despair over my gain this week and then I thought:  well, let's look at this.  I weighed at a different time (we weigh different later in the day) I am on the verge of TOM, god only knows how much I am retaining, etc, etc, etc.

You can do it - don't give up!!  (( Hugs ))

Hmmm...

Maybe try daily goals. That way you CAN start again the next day, without waiting for a whole week to go by. You are doing fantastic though, so I forbid you to get discouraged!