How to Get Over Perfectionism: 5 Questions to Ask Yourself From Reese Hopper

CREATIVES

3 July

If you’ve ever struggled to hit publish, finish a project, or put your work out into the world because it just wasn’t “perfect,” you’re not alone.

Many creatives grapple with perfectionism- a mindset that can stop you in your tracks and keep you from sharing your work.

We’ve asked Reese Hopper, author of What Gives You the Right to Freelance, what we can ask ourselves when we’re feeling frozen.

He’s shared with us 5 questions to pose yourself honestly when trying to tackle perfectionism.

Question #1: Am I Delaying Because It Will Actually Make a Difference?

Perfectionism can trick us into thinking that just a bit more effort will result in a radically better outcome.

But Reese challenges creators to be honest: “Are you delaying publishing because you really think it’s going to make a difference? Or are you delaying because you’re scared?”

Sometimes, we use perfectionism as an excuse to avoid the fear of being judged or criticised.

It’s worth asking yourself whether that extra time and effort will truly enhance the work- or whether it’s just another way to stall.

Question #2: Am I Hiding Behind the Process?

“Many of us hide behind the idea that we’re still working on things or that we’re so in tune with our art that we just want to get it right,” Reese explained.

But that can be a way of avoiding the vulnerability of sharing something that’s not perfect.

Perfectionists often believe that if they hold onto a project long enough, they’ll eventually get it just right.

The reality? There’s no such thing as perfect.

At some point, you need to ask yourself if you’re refining the work- or just hiding behind the process.

Question #3: Am I Afraid of Not Being Seen as a Genius?

“As soon as you publish something, it becomes immediately clear that you aren’t a prodigy,” Reese said.

For many perfectionists, this fear is at the core of their hesitation. The moment you release your work, it’s out in the world for others to see- imperfections and all.

Acknowledging that fear is the first step toward overcoming it. Nobody is a genius 100% of the time, and that’s okay. Your work doesn’t have to be flawless to make an impact.

Question #4: Do I Accept That Imperfect Work Can Still Have Value?

Perfectionists often struggle to accept that unfinished or imperfect work can still deliver value.

But as Reese points out, “Your imperfect creations do impact people.

They inspire, they change, and they bring value- even if they’re not perfect.”

It’s important to remind yourself that your audience isn’t waiting for perfection- they’re looking for authenticity, creativity, and ideas.

Even if you see the flaws in your work, those imperfections don’t negate the positive impact it can have on others.

Question #5: Am I Willing to Publish Anyway?

Getting over perfectionism comes down to taking action.

“Every time you publish, it gets a little easier,” Reese shared. “Your ego gets a little more realised, and you start to see that even imperfect creations have value.”

It’s okay if your work isn’t exactly how you imagined it.

The act of publishing, sharing, or releasing your work builds momentum- and over time, it becomes easier to let go of perfectionism.

The Takeaway: Just Publish It

Overcoming perfectionism isn’t about lowering your standards or being careless with your work.

It’s about recognising when fear is holding you back and choosing to publish anyway.

Ask yourself these questions the next time you find yourself stuck in perfectionism:

Am I delaying this because it will genuinely improve the outcome, or am I afraid?
Am I hiding behind the process?
Am I holding onto unrealistic expectations of genius?
Do I accept that imperfect work can still bring value?
Am I ready to publish, even if it’s not perfect?

The sooner you let go of the need for perfection, the sooner you can start sharing your work and making an impact.